Avoid: 2010, 2009, 2008, 2004, 2003, 2002 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2013 · Best recent: 2017
16 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 16 model years, the Mitsubishi Lancer has 1,252 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 59 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and visibility. 2003 drew the most complaints (311), 2007 the fewest (2).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mitsubishi Lancer vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $7,490–$10,213.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2016 | 30 |
| 2015 | 26 |
| 2014 | 39 |
| 2013 | 8 |
| 2012 | 23 |
| 2011 | 49 |
| 2010 | 141 |
| 2009 | 219 |
| 2008 | 91 |
| 2007 | 2 |
| 2006 | 37 |
| 2005 | 24 |
| 2004 | 91 |
| 2003 | 311 |
| 2002 | 155 |
Highest: 2003 (311 complaints). Lowest: 2007 (2).
Sentiment is sharply divided between the standard Lancer models and the high-performance Evolution variants. For standard Lancers (ES, GTS, Aspire, etc.), owner feedback is generally positive regarding reliability, practicality, and low-cost ownership.
Uses JATCO CVT shared with other brands; long-term reliability questioned, though some owners report high mileage (280,000+ km) without fluid changes. Fluid changes are critical.
Noted as a common issue to look for when inspecting used examples.
Issues include non-responsive accelerator pedal (2013 model), headlights staying on permanently (2008 model), and complete electrical system failures (radio, wipers, HVAC) with flickering lights.
Reported on a 2009 2.4L model; not resolved by air filter or oxygen sensor replacement.
Cited as a very common issue requiring expensive replacement (~$2800 USD) with parts often on backorder.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Lancer. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy