The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Years To Avoid
We've identified five Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years to avoid. Let's run through them and why you should steer clear.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, commonly dubbed the “Evo,” developed a cult following among driving enthusiasts for its rally-inspired performance and handling capabilities. This turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sport compact had a decade-long solid run from 2003 to 2015.
However, some model years proved less reliable than others. So which Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years to avoid that had the most complaints and worst reliability ratings from owners and critics?
We’ve compiled details on the specific years that prospective buyers should approach with caution. From recurring driveline problems to nagging electronic issues, these are the potential pitfalls to look out for when purchasing a used Evo. With some due diligence, you can maximize your chances of getting a solid Evo.
Which Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Years to Avoid?
When buying a used Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, specific model years should be avoided due to widespread reliability issues. Here’s a quick list of the worst Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years to avoid and why they earned a poor reputation:
- 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
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2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Used buyers should avoid the 2003 Evo due to various reliability issues that plagued this first model year of the Evo VIII generation. For starters, it received numerous complaints of transmission failure.
The 2003 Evo VIII had a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Both proved to be incredibly problematic. The manual gearboxes utilized faulty bearings that led to premature wear and failure. Many owners reported having to replace their entire transmission well before 100,000 miles. However, the automatic transmission option was arguably even worse. There were widespread reports of these automatics abruptly failing, often with catastrophic internal damage.
Moreover, this car also struggled with weak clutch assemblies. The clutch assemblies showed poor design and durability for manual transmission models. According to many owners, clutches frequently slipped and required replacement around the 30,000-mile mark. This means expensive, premature repairs for such a high-performance vehicle.
2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo continued many reliability problems that plagued the previous 2003 model year. Unfortunately, like in 2003, the 2004 Evo VIII suffered major transmission problems with manual and automatic gearbox options. The manual transmissions used the same faulty bearings, leading to premature wear and failures.
Also, the clutch assemblies in the 2004 manual Evos demonstrated the same lack of durability as those in 2003. Slipping and rapid wear plagued these clutches, often requiring replacement around 30,000 miles, according to owner reports.
Lastly, multiple owners cited poor overall build quality and fitment issues as major cons on their 2004 Evos. Problems like water leaks, rattles, bad paint adhesion, and misaligned body panels continued to be documented online and in owner forums.
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The 2008 Lancer Evolution had issues that you may want to avoid. At the top of its problem list is the failure related to the ACD (Active Center Differential) / AYC (Active Yaw Control) pump. According to owner reports, the pump was prone to corrosion and failure, especially in cold weather conditions and areas where roads are salted in winter. Pump failures often occurred at relatively low mileage (under 75,000 miles), rendering the S-AWC system inoperable.
This model year also encountered issues related to the SST (Sportronic Shift Transmission). The automated manual SST transmission was problematic, with owners experiencing gear slippage, harsh shifting, and even complete transmission failure at low mileage. In addition, the transfer case, which distributes power to the front and rear wheels, was prone to premature failure, with reports of fluid leaks and grinding noises.
ARE MITSUBISHIS RELIABLE?
This underdog status can make a Mitsubishi vehicle a great value, particularly in the pre-owned market. And that leads to the obvious question, “are Mitsubishis reliable?”
2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Like the 2008 model, many 2010 Lancer Evolution owners reported ACD/AYC pump failures, a critical component of the vehicle’s S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system. The pump was prone to corrosion and failure, often at relatively low mileage (under 60,000 miles). When the pump failed, it turned off the S-AWC system, negatively impacting the vehicle’s handling, traction, and stability. Mitsubishi often refused to cover the expensive repairs under warranty.
Meanwhile, this model year also had problems with its brake system. Several owners reported issues with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) pump. In one case, the dealer diagnosed a faulty ABS pump that needed replacement, costing over $3,000. One user pointed out this was a common issue across several vehicle makes (including BMW and Jeep) that use the same pump, with the brushes prone to sticking. The failure of this pump disables the ABS and ASC (Active Stability Control) systems.
Another related issue was reported: the driver’s side rear ABS sensor failed due to corrosion caused by the manufacturer’s improper sealing. Reports mentioned that Mitsubishi had introduced a new part number for the sensor, indicating a known fault. However, the company refused to cover the repair under warranty.
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The 2011 model is one of the worst Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years to avoid due to some inherited problems from the 2010 iteration. Thankfully, these issues were less prevalent but still worth mentioning.
Again, premature ACD/AYC pump failure has reared its ugly head, often due to corrosion caused by moisture, salt, and other road debris exposure. The pump’s location, behind the passenger rear wheel, was cited as a design flaw that made it vulnerable to these issues. Replacing the faulty ACD/AYC pump is an expensive repair, often costing over $2,000, which some owners feared they might have to face every 3-4 years due to the component’s vulnerability to premature failure.
ARE MITSUBISHIS GOOD CARS?
They’re relatively common but not as well known as big-name brands. How common or well-known a vehicle brand is doesn’t tell you one important thing: are Mitsubishis good cars?
Which Mitsubishi Lancer Evo Years Are Safe to Buy as Used?
If you’re looking to buy a Lancer Evo, the final production year, 2015, should be a good option in the used car market. By 2024, 2015 model-year vehicles had already experienced significant depreciation, which means you can potentially get a good deal on a car that is around nine years old.
However, while you may find a great deal on a car that has already experienced significant depreciation, it’s crucial to research the specific make and model for reliability. As with any used car purchase, please pay close attention to the vehicle’s mileage and overall condition and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic.
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