Mitsubishi Lancer Years to Avoid (Including The Best Years)

Mitsubishi Lancer Years to Avoid – The Mitsubishi Lancer has been a popular compact car for many years, offering sporty styling and a reliable driving experience. However, not all model years of the Lancer are created equal.

Some years have been plagued with problems and defects, while others have proven to be reliable and high-performing.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the Mitsubishi Lancer years to avoid and the best years to consider when looking to purchase a Lancer.

Mitsubishi Lancer Years to Avoid

When it comes to the Mitsubishi Lancer, there are a few model years that have been known to have issues and problems.

Here are the years to avoid when looking for a used Mitsubishi Lancer:

2002-2006 Mitsubishi Lancer

The first generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was produced from 2002 to 2006 and was known for its sporty styling and impressive performance.

This model year had several issues that made it less desirable for potential buyers. One of the main issues was the suspension, which was prone to failure, causing the car to shake and vibrate at high speeds.

The transmission was known to fail prematurely, causing shifting issues and requiring expensive repairs.

2008-2010 Mitsubishi Lancer

The second generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was produced from 2008 to 2010 and was known for its sleek design and impressive fuel economy.

This model year was plagued with recalls and defects, making it a risky purchase for potential buyers.

One of the main issues was the airbags, which were prone to not deploying in the event of an accident. There were issues with the power steering system, which could fail, causing difficulty in steering the car.

2013-2014 Mitsubishi Lancer

The final generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was produced from 2007 to 2017 and was known for its sporty styling and impressive performance.

The 2013-2014 model years had several transmission issues, causing the car to stall or fail to shift properly.

This issue was so severe that many owners had to replace their entire transmission, leading to costly repairs.

Best Years for Mitsubishi Lancer

While there are a few model years of the Mitsubishi Lancer that should be avoided, there are also several years that have proven to be reliable and high-performing.

Here are the best years of the Mitsubishi Lancer to consider:

2011-2012 Mitsubishi Lancer

The third generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer was produced from 2007 to 2017 and was known for its updated design and impressive features.

The 2011-2012 model years were particularly popular, thanks to the improved design and features, including a new 2.0-liter engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

This model year boasted improved fuel economy and handling, making it a great choice for drivers who want a reliable and efficient vehicle.

2015-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer

The final few years of the Mitsubishi Lancer were some of the best, thanks to updated technology and safety features.

The 2015-2017 model years featured a 6.1-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a rearview camera for added safety.

This model year had improved handling and a sport-tuned suspension, making it a great choice for drivers who want a sporty and reliable car.

2018 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2018 model year was the final production year for the Mitsubishi Lancer, and it was a great way to end the car’s production run.

This model year featured updated styling and improved handling, as well as a standard rearview camera and a 7-inch touchscreen display.

This model year was highly rated for safety, making it a great choice for drivers who want a reliable and safe vehicle.

Mitsubishi Lancer Problems

The Mitsubishi Lancer has been a popular compact car for many years, thanks to its sporty styling and reliable driving experience.

Like any car, the Lancer is not immune to issues and problems. Here are the most common Mitsubishi Lancer problems that owners have reported over the years:

Problems With Automatic Transmission

One of the most common problems reported by Mitsubishi Lancer owners is issues with the automatic transmission.

Some owners have reported that the transmission shifts roughly or slips, while others have reported complete transmission failure.

In some cases, the transmission may need to be replaced, which can be a costly repair.

To avoid transmission issues, it is recommended that owners of automatic transmission Lancers get their transmission serviced regularly and ensure that the transmission fluid is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Engine Cooling Issues

Another common problem reported by Lancer owners is issues with the engine cooling system. Some owners have reported that their Lancer’s engine overheats, which can lead to engine damage or failure.

This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning thermostat, a leak in the coolant system, or a faulty water pump.

To avoid engine cooling issues, it is recommended that owners of Lancers regularly check their coolant levels and ensure that their cooling system is functioning properly.

If any issues are detected, it is important to address them promptly to avoid more serious problems down the line.

Clear Coat and Paint Peeling

Another issue that has been reported by some Lancer owners is clear coat and paint peeling. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to the elements, poor-quality paint, or a manufacturing defect.

While this issue is mostly cosmetic, it can be frustrating for owners who take pride in the appearance of their cars.

To avoid clear coat and paint peeling, it is recommended that owners of Lancers regularly wash and wax their cars and park them in covered areas when possible.

If paint issues do arise, it is recommended that owners have their cars inspected by a professional to determine the cause and address any underlying issues.

Electrical System Problems

Finally, some Lancer owners have reported issues with the electrical system in their cars. This can include issues with the power windows, locks, and other electronic components.

In some cases, the cause of the problem may be a faulty relay or fuse, while in other cases, the issue may be more complex.

To avoid electrical system problems, it is recommended that Lancer owners have their cars inspected regularly by a professional and address any issues promptly.

It is important to avoid adding aftermarket electronic components to your car, as these can put additional strain on the electrical system and increase the risk of problems.

By being aware of the most common problems reported by Lancer owners, you can take steps to address these issues before they become more serious.

By taking good care of your car and having it regularly inspected by a professional, you can ensure that it continues to provide reliable and enjoyable transportation for years to come.

Maintenance and Reliability

While the year of the Mitsubishi Lancer is an important factor to consider when purchasing a used car, it is also important to consider the car’s maintenance and reliability history.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and brake replacements, can go a long way in ensuring that your Lancer remains reliable and performs at its best.

Researching the car’s reliability history can help you avoid potential issues and ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

It is worth noting that the Mitsubishi Lancer is known for being a reliable car, with many owners reporting few issues and a long lifespan.

Like any car, the Lancer can experience issues if not properly maintained or if driven aggressively. Regular maintenance and safe driving practices can help ensure that your Lancer remains reliable and performs at its best for years to come.

Is Lancer a good reliable car?

Yes, the Mitsubishi Lancer is generally considered a good and reliable car. It has a reputation for being well-built and long-lasting, with many owners reporting few issues and a long lifespan.

Are Lancers expensive to fix?

The cost of repairs for a Mitsubishi Lancer can vary depending on the model year and the extent of the repairs needed. In general, repairs for Lancers are not considered to be significantly more expensive than repairs for other cars in the same class.

Is Lancer better than Civic?

The Mitsubishi Lancer and Honda Civic are both popular compact cars with loyal followings. The answer to which one is better is subjective and depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Both cars have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to do your research and consider your specific needs before making a decision.

What is the fastest Lancer?

The fastest Mitsubishi Lancer is the Lancer Evolution X, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 4.4 seconds. This high-performance version of the Lancer was designed for rally racing and features a powerful engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and sport-tuned suspension.

Are Mitsubishi Lancers easy to work on?

The Mitsubishi Lancer is generally considered to be a relatively easy car to work on, thanks to its straightforward design and accessible components. Many repairs and maintenance tasks can be done with basic tools and some knowledge of car mechanics.

Like any car, some repairs may require specialized tools and knowledge, so it’s important to consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure or uncomfortable with a repair task.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Lancer is a reliable and sporty car that has been popular for many years. While there are a few model years that should be avoided due to issues and defects, there are also several years that have proven to be reliable and high-performing.

If you are in the market for a used Mitsubishi Lancer, be sure to research the car’s history and consider the model year carefully to ensure that you get a reliable and safe vehicle.

Remember, regular maintenance and safe driving practices can go a long way in ensuring that your Lancer remains reliable and performs at its best.

By choosing the right model year and maintaining your car properly, you can enjoy the many benefits of owning a Mitsubishi Lancer for years to come.

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