2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
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Complaints by Component
VISIBILITY
20 complaints
The contact's daughter owns a 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, she felt an air draft inside of the vehicle. The contact's daughter attempted to close the sunroof when she noticed that the sunroof had detached from the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the sunroof part was no longer manufactured and they were unable to get the part to perform the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 221,660.
Jun 27, 2022
THE KNOBS TO CONTROL THE HEATING AND DEFOGGING IS BROKEN. IT HAS BEEN UNUSUALLY COLD IN GEORGIA THIS WINTER AND THE DEFOGGERS ONLY EMIT COLD AIR. I HAVE TO DRIVE THE CAR EARLY IN THE MORNING AROUND 6:10AM AND I WARM THE CAR BEFORE MY 7YR. GETS IN. NOW WE HAVE TO HAVE BLANKETS FOR HER BECAUSE THE CAR NEVER WARMS UP! MY SISTER LIVES HERE TOO AND HAS THE SAME PROBLEM ON HER 2003 LANCER. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL FOR THE KNOBS THEY ARE POORLY MANUFACTURED. THANK GOD I DON'T LIVE IN CHICAGO OR BUFFALO, WE COULD LITERALLY FREEZE TO DEATH IN OUR CAR, JUST DRIVING AROUND! I TRIED TO SUPER GLUE THEM BACK TOGETHER, BUT I SEE THEIR IS WHAT LOOKS LIKE A MOTHER BOARD BEHIND THE KNOBS AND MAYBE THE CONNECTION WAS LOST WHEN THE TWO KNOBS BROKE. I HAVE HAD A MECHANIC CHECK THE HEATING COOL AND THE THERMOSTAT AND HE SUGGESTED GOING ONLINE FOR REPLACEMENT PARTS. I DID TO KNOW AVAIL, MITSUBISHI DOES NOT OFFER REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR THE KNOBS, SO WHAT DO I DO? I HOPE MITSUBISHI DOES SOMETHING ABOUT THIS, BECAUSE THIS IS TO NO FAULT OF THE OWNER THIS IS A DEFECT IN THE MANUFACTURING OF THE KNOBS THEY ARE POOR QUALITY AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. I LOVE THE LANCER IT HAS SERVED ME WELL OVER THE YEAR AND I WILL CONTINUE TO DRIVE THEM. THANK YOU FOR ATTENTION IN THIS MATTER. *TR
Mar 29, 2014
THE AIR CONDITIONER AND HEATER CONTROL KNOB WAS HARD TO TURN FROM THE MOMENT WE BOUGHT THE VEHICLE NEW. IT HAS SINCE BROKE OFF. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED BECAUSE IT IS A FACTORY DEFECT. *TR
May 07, 2012
MY 2002 LANCERS TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB BROKE THIS MORNING WHILE I WAS TRYING TO ENGAGE THE HEAT PORTION OF THE TEMPERATURE GAGE TO DEFROST MY WINDSHIELD. I DID A LITTLE RESEARCH ON HOW TO FIX THE PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET AND DISCOVERED THAT THIS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE LANCER. IF THIS IS SUCH A COMMON ISSUE, MITSUBISHI SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE AND ISSUE AN IMMEDIATE RECALL ON THE SYSTEM TO FIX IT. NOW I HAVE NO HEAT IN THE WINTER AND THE DEALER WANTS $1000+ TO FIX THE SYSTEM THAT WAS NEVER ENGINEERED PROPERLY. *TR
Dec 13, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE DEFROSTER/HEATER CONTROL MECHANISM FRACTURED AT THE TOUCH WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ACTIVATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER/HEATER CONTROL MODULE WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 114,000.
Jan 03, 2011
+ 15 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
19 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE METAL RAILING ON THE HIGHWAY. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS HOME. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DECLARED THE VEHICLE DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. RVK
Aug 31, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 35-40 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT SWERVED TO AVOID A CRASH. SHE CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE AND HER VEHICLE WENT AIRBORNE AND LANDED ON TOP OF ANOTHER PARKED VEHICLE. IMMEDIATELY, THE VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER THREE TIMES AND CAUSED THE WINDSHIELD TO SHATTER. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE POLICE AND AMBULANCE WERE CALLED TO THE SCENE AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE LUNGS, NECK TRAUMA, AND IMPALED GLASS IN HER HANDS AND LEGS. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER. THE TWO PARKED VEHICLES SUSTAINED MODERATE DAMAGES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN. UPDATED 03/14/10 *BF UPDATED 09/23/10 UPDATED 10/03/10 *BF UPDATED 11/03/10*JB
Jan 29, 2009
I WAS IN MY 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER AND WAS DRIVING ABOUT 35-40 MILES AN HOUR AND HIT A YUKON HEAD ON. MY CAR IS COMPLETELY CRUMPLED AND THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THIS IS THE SECOND MAJOR FRONT END ACCIDENT I HAVE HAD WITH THIS VEHICLE (THE PREVIOUS ONE IN 2002) AND BOTH TIMES, THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. NOTHING WAS DONE BY MITSUBISHI EITHER TIME TO CORRECT THE SITUATION. I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO WALK AWAY FROM BOTH BUT I WORRY THAT OTHERS MAY NOT BE SO LUCKY IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN TO THEM. *TR
May 29, 2008
AIR BAGS 2002 MITS . LANCER THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY MY CAR WAS HIT FROM THE REAR CAUSING IT TO HIT A CEMENT RETAINING WALL FROM THE FRONT AND SIDES AND NO AIR BAGS WENT OFF. I HAVE HAD MULTIPLE SURGERIES FROM THE FAILED AIR BAGS. *TR
Dec 07, 2007
MY CAR STRUCK ANOTHER VEHICLE IN THE REAR AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CAR WAS ALSO HIT FROM THE SIDE BY ANOTHER VEHICLE AND SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *TR
Dec 07, 2007
+ 14 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
18 complaints
I HAVE PURCHASED THIS CAR AS A SECOND OWNER AS I WAS TOLD. THE TRANSMISSION WAS ACTING FUNNY AT FIRST AND I WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS NORMAL BECAUSE THE CAR WAS SITTING FOR A WHILE. THE CAR HAD ONLY 115,000 MILES WHEN PURCHASED, THE REASON I BOUGHT IT WITH LOW MILES AND APPEARANCE. LAST WEEK WHEN IT WAS DRIVEN, THE CAR ACTED EVEN FUNNIER UNTIL IT STALLED: THE CAR WILL NOT ENGAGE IN ANY FORWARD GEARS, IT WILL ONLY ENGAGE IN THE REVERSE GEAR. AFTER RESEARCHING THE FACT, I WAS TOLD BY MANY SOURCES THAT THE 2002-2005 LANCERS HAD A LOT OF ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSIONS IN MANY WAYS. I NEED TO KNOW IF THAT'S TRUE AND WHAT COULD BE DONE ESPECIALLY AFTER I LOOKED AT THE BLOGS ABOUT WHAT'S SO NAMED " LANCERS". IT WILL BE A SHAME FOR A MANUFACTURER TO RELEASE A CAR IN THE MARKET WITH SUCH PROBLEM. *TR
Feb 05, 2012
MY SLAVE CYLINDER FAILED DUE TO LEAKAGE FROM THE TRANSMISSION. AS I WAS DRIVING UPHILL AND TRIED TO SHIFT INTO 2ND GEAR THE CLUTCH PEDAL JUST WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOOR AND MY CAR GOT STUCK IN NEUTRAL. ITS COSTING ME 1000 DOLLARS TO FIX IT. THERE IS A TSB OUT ON THIS PROBLEM AND I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY THIS HASN'T BEEN MADE A RECALL YET??? IT LOOKS LIKE A QUITE COMMON PROBLEM FOR PEOPLE AND A COSTLY ONE AT THAT. VERY UNFAIR THAT WE ARE HAVING TO PAY FOR THESE REPAIRS WHEN THIS WAS A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. *TR
Jan 17, 2011
THE SLAVE CYLINDER ON MY 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING THE CAR. I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY WHEN THIS HAPPEN AND I COULD NO LONGER GET MY CAR TO GO INTO GEAR. I HAD TO GET OVER FROM THE LEFT LANE OF TRAFFIC TO THE SHOULDER OF THE RIGHT LANE WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO ACCELERATE BECAUSE MY CAR WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR. I HAD TO CUT OTHER DRIVERS OFF AND ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. THE SLAVE CYLINDER LEAKED BRAKE FLUID ALL OVER THE CLUTCH AND NOW THAT HAS TO BE REPLACED TOO. MITSUBISHI KNEW THIS WAS A PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY CHANGED THE DESIGN IN 2004. I HAVE READ ABOUT THIS SAME PROBLEM FROM OTHERS WHO HAVE THE SAME CAR. *TR
Jun 13, 2010
CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER WENT BAD I WAS STOCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY NOT ABLE TO SHIFT INTO GEARS. VERY COSTLY REPAIR FORCED ME TO REPLACE CLUTCH PLUS THE CYLINDER. *TR
Jan 07, 2009
I DRIVE A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER OZ RALLY AND OUT OF NOWHERE I LOST ALL RESISTANCE IN THE CLUTCH AND WAS STRANDED WITH A BLOWN SLAVE CYLINDER. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND IT SEEMS THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AND I BELIEVE IT SHOULD BE RECALLED. *TR
Jun 10, 2008
+ 13 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
14 complaints
BRAKES LOCKED UP AND SUBFRAME SNAPPED WHILE DRIVING. FOUND OUT RECENTLY THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON MY CAR.
Jul 05, 2017
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED, THE CONTACT HAS EXPERIENCED SEVERAL FAILURES REGARDING THE BRAKE SYSTEM. WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES, SHE HEARD A CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM THE BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY TIGHTENED THE SUSPENSION STEERING. ONE YEAR LATER, WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE BRAKES BEGAN TO SQUEAK AND FAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY FOUND NO FAILURES WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM. TWO YEARS LATER, WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD SQUEAKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AGAIN AND THEY STATED THAT THE FRONT BRAKES HAD A TEN PERCENT LOSS IN BRAKING POWER. THE FRONT BRAKES WERE REPLACED. SIX MONTHS LATER, WHILE BACKING UP THE VEHICLE, SHE HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY RESURFACED BOTH REAR DRUMS. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY; THEREFORE, NO REPAIRS WERE MADE UNDER THE WARRANTY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,840 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 66,000. UPDATED 12/22/08 *CN UPDATED 12/29/08. *JB
Dec 11, 2008
I PURCHASED MY 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER IN 2001, IT HAD 7 MILES ON IT. IN THE YEARS SINCE I HAVE PURCHASED THE CAR I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BRAKE PADS 6 TIMES. IT NOW HAS 88,000 MILES ON IT. I PRETTY MUCH HAVE TO GET A NEW SET EVERY YEAR, AND THESE ARE THE EXPENSIVE LIFETIME PADS. I HAVE TURNED THE ROTORS TWICE AND ALREADY REPLACED THEM ONCE. WHEN TRYING TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THIS MY MECHANIC DISCOVERED THAT THE BACK BREAKS HAD NEVER BEEN USED, THEY STILL HAD UNTOUCHED MANUFACTURER BRAKE PADS. SO THE BACK BREAKS HAD NEVER WORKED. I CONTACTED THE DEALER AND THEY DID LOOK AT THE CAR, THEY STATED THAT IT WAS SIMPLY AN ISSUE OF A DISCONNECTED LINE (AFTER I HAD BEEN DRIVING THE CAR FOR 4 YEARS). BUT THEN 6 MONTHS LATER I HAD TO CHANGE THE BRAKES YET AGAIN AFTER ONLY 5,000 MILES. ONCE AGAIN- THE BACK BREAKS WERE STILL UNTOUCHED. I CALLED THE DEALER ABOUT THIS MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND THEY SAID I WOULD HAVE TO PAY UP FRONT FOR ANY INSPECTION OR REPAIRS SINCE MY WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. I FEEL THIS IS A SERIOUS MANUFACTURER DEFECT THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF IMMEDIATELY AND IS A POTENTIAL SERIOUS DANGER, I HAVE YET TO CONTACT CORPORATE REGARDING THIS MATTER AS I HAVE BEEN TOLD THEY WOULD NOT INVOLVE THEMSELVES BY OTHER MITSUBISHI OWNERS. *NM
Oct 23, 2006
IN 2003 I BOUGHT A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER FROM A MITSUBISHI DEALER. THE CAR HAD APPROXIMATELY 25,000 MILES ON IT AND HAD THE ORIGINAL BRAKES. IN DECEMBER 2004 I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND WAS TOLD THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I HAD THE WORK DONE AND THE CAR HAD APPROXIMATELY 42,000 MILES ON IT AND IT WAS NOW ON IT'S SECOND SET OF BRAKES. IN APRIL 2006 I NOTICED THE BRAKES WERE SQUEAKING ,AND TOOK THE CAR TO A BRAKE REPAIR SHOP. THEY SAID THE CAR DID NEED NEW BRAKES BUT ALSO OF THE TWO FRONT ROTORS ONE WAS MARGINAL FOR BEING TURNED, AND THE OTHER WAS BELOW SPECIFICATIONS. IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ALSO ONE OF THE CALIPERS WAS NOT RELEASING PROPERLY SO THE BRAKE ESSENTIALLY STAYED ON, AND THERE WERE BLACK HEAT MARKS ON THE ROTOR. THE CAR HAD APPROXIMATELY 75,000 MILES ON IT, AND IT WAS NOW ON ITS THIRD SET OF BRAKES. I HAD THE BRAKE PADS REPLACED. ALSO TOOK ALL THE PARTS THAT HAD BEEN REPLACED AND WENT TO THE MITSUBISHI DEALER THAT I HAD PURCHASED THE CAR FROM, AND WHERE THE FIRST SET OF BRAKES HAD BEEN REPLACED. AT THE DEALER THEY REFUSED TO REMOVE ALL THE COMPONENTS. IT WAS DIFFICULT TO SEE WHAT I HAD BEEN SHOWN AT THE BRAKE SHOP. THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO PROBLEM AND THE ONLY THING AGREED UPON WAS THAT THE ROTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. A WEEK LATER I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE BRAKE SHOP AND HAD THE ROTORS REPLACED. I CONTACTED MITSUBISHI MOTORS BY PHONE AND ASKED IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS ON THE BRAKES AND WAS TOLD NO. I WROTE TO MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICAN CORPORATE OFFICE, AND RECEIVED A REPLY STATING THEY DO NOT DEAL WITH TECHNICAL QUESTIONS BUT I SHOULD CONTACT THE LOCAL MITSUBISHI DEALER. I TOLD THEM IN THE LETTER THAT I HAD DONE THAT ALREADY. THESE BRAKE JOBS HAVE BEEN EXPENSIVE, ESPECIALLY THE LAST ONE WHERE THE ROTORS HAD TO BE REPLACED. I FEEL THAT MITSUBISHI HAS BEEN VERY UNHELPFUL WITH THIS COMPLAINT. *JB *AK *NM
May 16, 2006
AT MY 30K SERVICE THE FRONT BRAKE PADS HAD TO BE REPLACED. NOW AT 52K MILES THE ROTORS NEED TO BE MACHINED. I'M WONDERING IF THE MATERIAL THE BRAKE PADS ARE MADE FROM ARE JUST CHEAP AND WEAR OUT QUICKLY OR WHAT WOULD MAKE THE ROTORS NEED TO BE MACHINED AT SUCH LOW MILEAGE. I'VE OWNED MANY VEHICLES AND HAVE NEVER HAD TO HAVE ROTORS MACHINED, RESURFACED OR REPLACED, EVEN UP TO 150K MILES! THIS IS RIDICULOUS. I CAN SEE THAT I'LL BE DOING BRAKE PADS EVERY 40K MILES OR SO IF THE TRACK RECORD CONTINUES. I CAN FIND NO TSB ON BRAKES. THE DEALER ALSO SAID I HAD AN OPEN RECALL TO "REFLASH PCM" WHICH I CAN'T FIND ON YOUR SITE FOR MY VEHICLE. IS THIS A VOLUNTARY RECALL OR A FEDERALLY MANDATED ONE? BECAUSE I CAN'T FIND IT I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THEY'RE RECALLING OR WHAT I SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR IF THE PCM FAILS AFTER THE RECALL. *NM
May 11, 2006
+ 9 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
14 complaints
OWN A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER, CODE P0421, SHOWED AFTER FAILURE OF EMISSIONS TEST. I CALLED MITSUBISHI MOTORS AFTER FINDING THIS CODE WAS FOR A RECALL IN AUG. 05 EMR-05-001/003, AN EMISSION RECALL ON THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, "MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED DAMAGE TO THE WARM-UP CAT CONVERTER AND SUBSEQUENT ILLUMINATION OF THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LAMP." MITSUBISHI INFORMED ME THIS RECALL WAS AN EXTENDED WARRANTY RECALL TO REPLACE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER BUT THAT IT EXPIRED IN 2006, ALSO, THAT IT EXTENDED THE WARRANTY TO 8 YRS OR 100,000 MI. I EXPLAINED TO THEM I HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF ANY RECALLS ON THIS CAR. THEY INFORMED ME IT WAS MY FAULT FOR NOT INFORMING THEM I WAS THE OWNER, SO I COULD BE NOTIFIED. HOWEVER, NHTSA SAYS OWNERS ARE NOTIFIED THROUGH REGISTRATION RECORDS. THEY LATER STATED THEY HAD SENT ME A RECALL NOTICE IN AUG. 2005. I NEVER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE ON ANY OF THE THREE RECALLS FOR MY CAR. THIS CAR HIT 100,000 MI ON 5/10/2008 WHICH WAS BEFORE THE 8YR LIMIT. THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY STARTED TO FLASH 2/5/2010, AT 122592 MILES, STILL BEFORE THE 8YR LIMIT. WE THOUGHT IT WAS THE GAS CAP NOT SCREWED ON ALL THE WAY BECAUSE IT DIDN'T ILLUMINATE CONTINUOUSLY UNTIL 06/2011. MITSUBISHI HAS REFUSED TO REPLACE THE CAT, BECAUSE THE CAR IS NOW OVER 100,000 MILES AND THE 8YR LIMIT, OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. WE HAVE PERFORMED A TUNE-UP OF THE ENGINE, OIL CHANGE, BELT REPLACEMENT, VALVE GASKET REPLACEMENT, AND FLUID FLUSH TO HELP REMEDY THE SITUATION. THE FAN CONTROL, AND PCM REFLASH WERE PERFORMED PER THE OTHER TWO RECALLS FOR THIS VEHICLE. *TR
Jul 24, 2011
MY SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT TURNED ON AND I WENT TO AUTO ZONE AND GOT A CODE : P0421 OEM BRAND: DOMESTIC DEFINITION: CATALYST EFFICIENCY LOW BANK 1 EXPLANATION: THE OXYGEN SENSORS MONITOR THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ABILITY TO STORE OXYGEN. PROBABLE CAUSES: 1- CATALYTIC CONVERTER DEFECTIVE (FAILURE POSSIBLY DUE TO #2, 3, OR 4.) 2- ENGINE MISFIRE OR RUNNING CONDITION. 3- LARGE VACUUM LEAK. 4- ENGINE OIL LEAKAGE INTO EXHAUST-VALVE GUIDE SEALS, PISTON RINGS. I CALLED MITSU AND THEY SAID SINCE MY CAR IS AT 93500 THAT IT WOULD NOT BE COVERED...THAT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY....MY CAR IS NOT ACCELERATING AS IT WAS SUPPOSE TOO...ALOT OF PEOPLE HAVE HAD SAME PROBLEM....AFTER 90 MILES...THIS IS RIDICULOUS. *TR
Jan 20, 2011
DEFECTIVE CAT. RECALL IS STILL OPEN BUT MITSUBISHI REFUSES TO FIX THE PROBLEM. DEALERS ARE INSTRUCTED TO CLEAR THE CODE (REFLASH PCM) BUT LIGHT WILL COME BACK BECAUSE DEFECTIVE CAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THIS IS THE ORIGINAL CAUSE OF THE RECALL. VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRENTY, SO THE WILL NOT REPLACE THE CAT. IF THE CAT WAS STILL UNDER WARRENTY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON, THEY WOULD REPLACE IT. WE ARE THE ORIGINAL OWNERS AND NEVER RECIEVED THE RECALL NOTICE. WE HAVE SPENT A FORTUNE TRYING TO GET THE LIGHT OFF IN ORDER TO GET THROUGH INSPECTION, NOT KNOWING OF THE SOURCE AND THE RECALL. WHAT IS THE POINT OF THE RECALL IF THEY DON'T FIX THE PROBLEM? THEY JUST COVER IT UP BY REFLASHING THE COMPUTER. THE FACT IS, OUR CAR HAS A DEFECTIVE CAT. WE WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL. WE CANNOT PASS INSPECTION WITHOUT REPLACING THE DEFECTIVE CAT THAT CAUSED A RECALL.VEHICLE'S ENGINE OVER-COMPENSATES FOR BAD O2 READING CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION. MITSUBISHI REFUSES TO FIX THE PROBLEM.
Apr 16, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO AN INCOMPLETE RECALL REPAIR PERTAINING TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WERE NO LONGER LIABLE FOR ANY FAILURES ON THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE MILEAGE EXCEEDED 150,000, WHICH EXCLUDED THE VEHICLE FROM QUALIFYING FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE "RECALL" WAS NOT FOUND ON THE SAFERCAR.GOV WEBSITE AND MAY HAVE BEEN DEEMED AS A "SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN" INSTEAD. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 133,847.
Apr 01, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND THEY STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 247,000. UPDATED 03/09/09. *LJ THE CONSUMER STATED BEFORE THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED SHE DIDN'T HAVE ANY PROBLEMS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER UNNECESSARY REPAIRS TO HER VEHICLE AND WOULD LIKE REIMBURSEMENT. UPDATED 03/11/09. *JB
Jan 28, 2009
+ 9 more complaints for this component
STEERING
9 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. WHILE TRAVELING 30 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE CONTACT REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND BACK. BOTH THE CONTACT AND PASSENGER REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V458000 (SUSPENSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Aug 24, 2016
WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AND THE STEERING WHEEL FELL OFF. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS WAS ABLE TO PUT IT BACK ON BUT HAD TO PRESS HARD TO KEEP IT IN PLACE MY MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO REATTACH IT BUT HAD TO DISABLE THE AIR BAG AND NOW COST $700 FOR A NEW STEERING COLUMN AIR BAG AND HORN. I SEE OTHER COMPLAINTS AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT MY OPTIONS ARE REGARDING THIS IS THIS SOMETHING BEING REVIEWED OR A RECALL. I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED.
Jul 14, 2015
I OWN A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. I PURCHASED FROM CARMAX IN 2005 AND WAS ASSURED THAT IT WAS FREE OF PROBLEMS. ADDITIONAL RESEARCH SHOWED THAT THE CAR HAD BEEN WELL CARED FOR AND HAD NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. WHILE SITTING IN TRAFFIC ON THE INTERSTATE IN LATE FEBRUARY 2006 THE STEERING COLUMN INEXPLICABLY COLLAPSED INTO MY LAP. THE CAR WAS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL, AND I WAS FORTUNATE THAT I WAS IN GRIDLOCK, OTHERWISE I WOULD HAVE BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. SO, SINCE MY WARRANTY WITH CARMAX HAD LAPSED, I TOOK THE CAR TO MY MECHANIC (WHO IS EXTREMELY COMPETENT AND REPUTABLE). HE LOOKED AT THE IT AND HAD NO EXPLANATION FOR WHAT CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE STEEL BRACKETS HOLDING THE COLUMN IN PLACE HAD BEEN RIPPED THROUGH, AND THE ONLY THING CAPABLE OF DOING THIS WAS A HEAD ON COLLISION. I HAD HIM REPAIR THE COLUMN, AS I NEEDED MY CAR. HE FIXED ALL THE NECESSARY PROBLEMS AND DID NOT FIND ANYTHING ELSE THAT NEEDED REPAIRING. THEN IN APRIL 2006, I WAS SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT AND AGAIN THE COLUMN COLLAPSED. IT WAS IN A WORSE STATE THAN DURING THE PREVIOUS FAILURE. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC TO BE RE-EXAMINED. HE WAS ABLE TO FIND NOTHING RELATED TO HIS PREVIOUS REPAIR THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THIS SECOND FAILURE. THE STEEL RIVETS AND BOLTS SUPPORTING THE COLUMN (WHICH HAD NOT BEEN TOUCHED DURING THE PREVIOUS REPAIR AND WERE THEREFORE UNDISTURBED), HAD COMPLETELY RIPPED AWAY. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER AND THEIR SERVICE TEAM COULD COME UP WITH NO EXPLANATION FOR WHAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THIS FAILURE OTHER THAN A POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE COLUMN. I WAS ASSURED THAT THIS WAS NOT DUE TO NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. I CONTACTED MITSUBISHI REGARDING WHAT COULD BE DONE, BUT THEY CLAIMED TO BE UNABLE TO HELP ME AS THE CAR WAS BEYOND THE MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY, DUE TO THE NUMBER OF MILES ON IT I AM ONLY FORTUNATE IN THAT THESE FAILURES DID NOT OCCUR WHILE I WAS IN MOTION, OR THE SUDDEN LOSS OF CONTROL WOULD HAVE CERTAINLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT IN WHICH I COULD HAVE BEEN SEVERELY INJURED. *JB
Apr 21, 2006
WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH STEERING WHEEL COLLAPSED. CONSUMER HAD DIFFICULTY MAINTAINING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. HOWEVER, WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT STEERING COLUMN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Dec 03, 2004
I OWN A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. MY STEERING WHEEL COLUMN COLLAPSED IN MY LAP WHILE DRIVING. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THAT IT WAS UNUSUAL THAT HAPPENED. SAID IT WAS THE LATCH IN MY COLUMN, HAD TO BUY A WHOLE NEW STEERING COLUMN 500+ PART, NOT INCLUDING LABOR. *AK
Aug 30, 2004
+ 4 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
8 complaints
THERE'S A LOT OF POPING UNDERNEATH FRONT END AND THERE'S A RECALL AL ON THE CONTROL ARMS
May 03, 2019
TAKATS RECALL .MANUFACTURER RECALL NUMBERSR-16-003
Jan 22, 2018
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR MY VEHICLE JANUARY 2017. I'VE BEEN TRYING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT TRANSITTOWNE MITSUBISHI AT 7428 TRANSIT RD. WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. 14221. THEY DO NOT ANSWER THEIR PHONE OR EMAILS.
Feb 28, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V458000 (SUSPENSION) IN AUGUST. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR RECEIVING THE PARTS COULD BE PROVIDED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *TR
Nov 30, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V458000 (SUSPENSION); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Aug 26, 2016
+ 3 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaints
SLAVE CYLINDER INTERNAL AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL BECAUSE THERE ARE SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ABOUT THESE INTERNAL SLAVE CYLINDERS IN THESE MODEL YEARS BEFORE MITSUBISHI REALIZED THEY NEEDED TO MAKE THEM EXTERNAL. HAVING TO REPLACE THEM IS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE AND REQUIRES NEW CLUTCH, PRESSURE PLATE AND ALL OTHER COMPONENTS BECAUSE OF THE FLUID THE CYLINDER LEAKS ALL OVER THE INSIDE OF THE TRANSMISSION. THEY SHOULD RECALL THESE IF THEY EXPECT PEOPLE TO CONTINUE BUYING THEIR VEHICLES. I FOR ONE WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER MITSUBISHI BECAUSE THE ONLY RECAP THEY HAVE ACTUALLY SENT ME WAS FOR THE CONTROL ARMS THAT I ALREADY REPLACED ON MY OWN BECAUSE EVEN THOUGH THEY SENT ME THE RECALL THEY ALSO NOTED ON THERE THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR ANY DEALERSHIP AT THIS POINT. VERY AGGRAVATED WITH THIS COMPANY AND THINK THEY SHOULD TREAT OWNERS AND OUR SAFETY AS A HIGHER PRIORITY. THIS SLAVE CYLINDER ALMOST CAUSED ME TO GET INTO AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE IT WOULD NOT COME OUT OF GEAR BECAUSE ALL THE FLUID WAS BEING SQUIRTED INTO THE REST OF THE CLUTCH COMPONENTS. VERY DISAPPOINTED AND WISHING I WOULD HAVE NEVER PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NOW. TAKE BETTER CARE OF YOUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS AND OUR SAFETY MITSUBISHI OR YOU WILL KEEP LOSING THEM ONE BY ONE. IT IS AN EASY FIX FOR YOU TO RECALL THESE INTERNAL JUNK SLAVE CYLINDERS AND EITHER REPLACE THEM AT THE VERY LEAST OR EVEN CONVERT THEM TO EXTERNAL LIKE YOU DID A YEAR OR TWO AFTER YOU OBVIOUSLY REALIZED YOUR MISTAKE AND BAD IDEA.
Sep 05, 2016
PAINT IS CHIPPING IN FRONT. PAINT ALL OVER THE CAR IS VERY EASILY CHIPPED,SCRATCHED ETC. I HAVE NEVER HAD A CAR WITH SUCH A LOUSY PAINT JOB. DEALERSHIP SAYS IT DRIVING CONDITIONS THAT ARE CAUSING THE PAINT CHIPS IN THE FRONT. BUT YOUR FINGERNAIL CAN SCRATCH THE PAINT ALL OVER THE CAR. IT'S WORTHLESS. *NLM
May 08, 2003
PAINT CRACKS AND CHIPS EASILY; TREE SAP AND BIRD DROPPINGS EAT THE PAINT EVEN IF WASHED OFF THE SAME DAY; PAINT IS VERY THIN. *NLM
Apr 10, 2003
PAINT CHIPS EASILY ON ANY PANEL. DT
Nov 12, 2002
MR
Oct 08, 2002
STRUCTURE
4 complaints
FRONT LOWER ENGINE SUPPORT & CRADLE ARE RUSTED OUT ALONG WITH THE CROSS MEMBER. I CAN FURNISH PICTURES IF NECESSARY.
Mar 02, 2020
FACTORY DEFECTIVE PAINT SPOTS ON HOOD,DAMAGE TO HOOD DURING MAINTENCE BY DEALERSHIP. *AK
Nov 25, 2004
PAINT IS CHIPPING ALL OVER THE BODY, ESPECIALLY ON THE HOOD. THE COMPANY REFUSES TO TAKE CARE OF THEIR CHEAP PAINT. THE PAINT WILL CHIP FOR NO REASON OR WHENEVER BIRD DROPPINGS OR TREE SAP COME IN CONTACT, EVEN IF YOU CLEAN IT RIGHT OFF. I HAVE NEVER HAD SUCH BAD PAINTG. *AK
Apr 23, 2004
VEHICLE IS RUSTING AT FACTORY SEAMS/WELDS FOR FRONT FRAME RAILS & APRON. DT
Nov 12, 2002
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH; APPROACHED A TRAFFIC STOP LIGHT. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO REV; AND VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD. DURING BRAKING THERE WAS DIFFICULTY TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE AUTHORIZED DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE MALFUNCTION. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THIS TIME. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,120. UPDATED 11/16/10. *LJ
Mar 04, 2010
I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE IN 2003 AND WAS HAPPY WITH IT'S PERFORMANCE UP UNTIL SEPTEMBER OF 2005. ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS I HAVE EXPERIENCED THE CAR MAKING A FUNNY NOISE AND ACCELERATING ON IT'S OWN. I TOOK THE CAR TO HAVE IT SERVICED AND WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE REPAIR PERSON THAT NO ONE HAD EVER REPORTED HAVING A PROBLEM OF THIS KIND. SINCE I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED I DO NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING IT. I BOUGHT ALL NEW TIRES BECAUSE I WAS TOLD THAT MY TWO FRONT TIRES WERE STARTING TO BALD. IT APPEARS AS THOUGH THE CAR COULD BE IDLED TOO HIGH OR SOMETHING. SINCE I DO NOT KNOW THAT MUCH ABOUT I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THE PROBLEM COULD BE. IF MITSUBISHI DOES NOT KNOW WHAT IS WRONG WITH IT THERE WOULD BE NO WAY THAT I WOULD EVEN HAVE A CLUE. I HAD MY VEHICLE SERVICED BY MITSUBISHI IN SEPTEMBER 2002. I WAS TOLD THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DUE FOR SOME COMPUTER UPGRADES WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE CAUSED THE PROBLEM THAT I EXPERIENCED WITH MY VEHICLE. ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT SINCE I HAVE HAD THE CAR SERVICED IT STILL FEELS AS THOUGH IT IS ACCELERATING WHEN I AM TRYING TO SLOW DOWN. I AM NOW IN THE PROCESS OF TRYING TO PAY OFF THE VEHICLE SO THAT I CAN TRADE IT IN FOR ANOTHER MAKE/MODEL. BEFORE THIS PROBLEM AROSE I HAD ANTICIPATED TRADING MY LANCER IN FOR THE NEW ECLIPSE. I GUESS THAT I DO NOT HAVE TO TELL YOU THAT MISUBISHI WILL BE LOSING ME AS A CUSTOMER. MY VEHICLE IS A MITSUBISHI LANCER ES 2002. *JB
Sep 04, 2005
WHILE APPLYING BRAKES VEHICLE ACCELERATED. IN ORDER TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN CONSUMER HAD TO ENGAGE THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL, AND SHUT THE IGNITION OFF. *AK THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TOT HE DEALER AND PUT ON THE DIAGNOSTIC COMPUTER. THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THAT NO CODES WERE DISPLAYED INDICATING A PROBLEM. *NM
Jun 25, 2004
THE ENGINE REVVED, AND THEN EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION. *JB
Mar 13, 2003
STEERING,SUSPENSION
2 complaints
THERE HAS NO BEEN AN INCIDENT YET. THE VEHICLE RATTLES IN THE FRONT END, EXACTLY WHERE THE RECALLED PART IS AT. I TOOK IT TO THE LICENSED DEALERSHIP THAT I WAS TOLD WAS QUALIFIED TO REPLACE THE PART AND THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE IT CLAIMING THAT THE VEHICLE IS TOO RUSTY AND THEY DON'T WANT TO LIFT IT UP ON THE AIR. I HAD JUST HAD 4 NEW TIRES PUT ON IT RECENTLY AND THEY USED A CAR LIFT WITHOUT ANY ISSUES. I WOULD LIKE THE PART REPLACED BECAUSE NOW I'M WORRIED ABOUT THE DEFECT CAUSING A SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF IT IS NOT REPLACED. THE REASON IT IS BEING RECALLED IS BECAUSE IT IS PRONE TO RUST AND MAY DETERIORATE OVER TIME AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT IS HAPPENING AND THEY REFUSE TO FIX IT.
Apr 02, 2020
LOWER CONTROL ARM ON FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE BUCKLED UNDER RESULTING IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND THE VEHICLE STRIKING A CURB AT ~55 MPH. DEALERSHIP REFUSES TO FIX UNDER WARRANTY CITING THERE IS NO PROOF THAT HITTING THE CURB DID NOT CAUSE THE DAMAGE. I WAS INFORMED BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT THERE HAD BEEN A SIMILIAR INCIDENT THE PREVIOUS WEEK INVOLVING ANOTHER LANCER. ON THIS VEHICLE THE FAILURE WAS ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THIS FAILURE ALSO RESULTED IN A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AS WELL AS STRIKING AN OBJECT WITH THE VEHICLE. DT
Oct 24, 2002
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
FUEL TANK IS LEAKING FROM THE SEAM. MOST OF THE FUEL IS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE DIRECTLY ABOVE THE EXHAUST PIPE. FUEL CAN BE SMELLED ALL AROUND THE VEHICLE AND INSIDE THE CAR
Oct 15, 2016
GAS TANK FILLER TUBE IS LEAKING GAS, HARD TO FILL, SETS OFF THE SERVICE LIGHT.
Apr 04, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
2 complaints
I HAVE A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER AND THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB IN THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN DIFFICULT TO TURN SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR. THE KNOB BROKE OFF TWO WEEKS AGO. I CONTACTED MY DEALER WHO STATED THAT I CAN NOT JUST CHANGE THE KNOB I HAVE TO CHANGE THE WHOLE UNIT WHICH WILL COST ME AROUND $ 600.00 PLUS SERVICES FEES TO INSTALL IT. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL ITEM, SINCE HEATING (AND COOLING) A VEHICLE ALLOWS IT TO BE OPERABLE DURING HOT AND COLD TEMPERATURES. IT IS NOW BEGINNING TO GET COLD. *TR
Oct 20, 2011
THIS IS A COMPLAINT I HAVE SEEN ON OTHER WEBSITES FROM THOUSANDS OF OTHER MITSUBISHI LANCERS FROM 2000- 2005, BUT MAINLY IN THE 2002 MODEL RANGE. THE HEATER/AIR CONDITIONER CONTROLS SEIZE UP AND EITHER THE CABLE FREEZES UP AND THE CONTROL KNOB SNAPS OFF ON THE TEMPERATURE CONTROLS. TO ME THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN NOT NECESSARILY FOR THE USE OF THE VEHICLE, BUT RATHER FOR THE HEALTH OF THE DRIVER AND THOSE WHO RIDE IN THE VEHICLE. THEY COULD FREEZE IN THE WINTER OR GET HEAT STROKE IN THE SUMMER. *TR
Sep 06, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
FUEL FILLER PIPE AND LEVELER VALVE NEEDS TO BE REPALCED DUE TO SMALL LEAK POSSIBLE CRACKED CAUSES PO456 CODE MIL. *TR
Apr 29, 2011
1) THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AFTER 130,000 MILES. HAD IT CHECKED OUT AND IT REQUIRED A NEW CATALYTIC CONVERTER. 2) THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB BROKE OFF. IT SEEMS LIKE BOTH OF THESE PROBLEMS ARE COMMON IN MITSUBISHI LANCERS. *TR
Oct 25, 2010
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE IDLED ABOVE THE NORMAL IDLE RATE. THE RPMS INCREASED, SIMILAR TO AS IF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS BEING DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IDLING WAS A RECURRING FAILURE THAT USUALLY TOOK PLACE AT LOWER SPEEDS. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS CRANKED OR LOW ON FUEL THE AIR CONDITIONING POWERED ON AUTOMATICALLY. ALSO, THE VEHICLE ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE AUTOMATICALLY WHEN IDLING, AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. EXHAUST FUMES ENTERED THE VEHICLE INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS STICKING ON OCCASION. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE 94000. *AK
Mar 26, 2007
VEHICLE ACCELERATES ON IT'S OWN. I HAVE INFORMED MITSHUBISHI OF THE PROBLEM HOWEVER ACCORDING TO MITSHUBISHI THEY COULD NOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM BY COMPUTER SO AS FAR AS THEY WERE CONCERNED THERE WAS NO PROBLEM. I RECENTLY HAD AN ACCIDENT IN THE CAR AND OF COURSE MITSHUBISHI IS TRYING TO WIGGLE OUT OF IT. I GUESS I HAVE TO GET KILLED IN THEIR VEHICLE BEFORE ANYTHING WILL BE DONE. ALL I WANT IS FOR MITSHUBISHI TO TAKE THEIR DEFECTIVE MERCHANDISE AND GIVE ME THE MONEY THAT I HAVE INVESTED IN THIS DEATH TRAP SO THAT I CAN PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE. I AM VERY SORRY THAT I EVER BOUGHT THIS CAR. IT IS A SERIOUS DEATH TRAP!!!!!!! *JB
Oct 10, 2006
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
I WAS TRAVELING AT 30-34 MPH AND A INTREPID PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME AND I SLAMMED HEAD ON TO HER DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT TIRE. MY SEAT BELTS DIDN'T LOCK RESULTING IN ME HITTING MY CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND MY SON IN THE BACK SEAT TO HIT HIS HEAD ON THE BACK OF THE PASSENGER FRONT SEAT. MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY RESULTING IN MY PELVIC BONE TO SHIFT AND ME TO RECEIVE WHIPLASH AND A BULDGE IN MY LOWER BACK. THE IMPACT OF THE CRASH RESULTED IN MY CAR BEING TOTALED. *JB
Jun 13, 2006
CAR WAS HIT ON SIDE. AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND PASSENGER SEAT BELT MALFUNCTIONED RESULTING IN DEATH OF PASSENGER. *NLM
Mar 29, 2003
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH DRIVER'S SIDE CONTROL ARM POPPED OFF THE WHEEL . HOWEVER, DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR ANALYSIS, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT VEHICLE HAD BEEN IN A PREVIOUS ACCIDENT. VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED DUE TO BENT CHASSIS. *AK
Jan 22, 2004
HAVING A PROBLEM WITH REAR SUSPENSION. THE ENTIRE BACK END SOUNDS AS IF THE FRAME IS BROKEN. WAS ASSURED BY MITSU SERVICE THAT IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. I WAS TOLD IT NEEDED BEARINGS AND BUSHINGS AND PARTS ARE ON BACK ORDER. THIS IS A 2002 LANCER OZ WITH 30000 MILES THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING TO A CAR OF THIS AGE. I AM FILING THIS COMPLAINT BECAUSE I FEEL IF THERE ARE TWO COMPLAINTS ON THIS SITE THERE ARE MOST CERTAINLY DOZENS MORE OUT THERE OR MORE TO COME.*AK
Aug 13, 2003
WHEELS
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL FELL OFF, NUTS AND BOLTS BROKE AND THE SEAL CAME OFF. *AK
Jun 06, 2003
LUG NUTS. DT
Nov 12, 2002
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
SMOG STATION INSPECTION REPORT ;; RECALL ONREPROGRAM PCM AND REPLACE FAN CONTROLLER
Feb 23, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THIS IS NOT THE FIRST MITSUBISHI THAT HAS DONE THIS. MY EX'S 2000 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE ALSO HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. THE SPEEDOMETER DOES NOT REGISTER. I NEED TO KNOW HOW FAST I AM GOING.
Nov 26, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
CATALYTIC CONVERTER OVERHEATING EMISSIONS RECALL. SECOND IS THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE SURFACES OF THE FRONT CROSS MEMBERS USED ON CERTAIN VEHICLES. IT WAS A RECALL ON THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER OVERHEATING. I NEED TO GET MY CAR FIX.
Jul 24, 2017
AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
MY HUSBAND WAS IN AN ACCIDENT AND OVER CORRECTED HIT AN EMBANKMENT AND A TREE AND THIS PUSHED HIM BACK INTO THE ROAD AND SPIN SHOOTING HIM INTO ANOTHER EMBANKMENT AND THIS RESULTED IN HIM BEING FORCED BACKWARDS AND INTO ANOTHER DITCH ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD HITTING A MAILBOX AND ANOTHER DITCH. THE AIRBAG NEVER DEPLOYED AND THE SEAT BROKE AS IF HE WAS LAYING DOWN TO SLEEP BUT IT WAS BROKE INTO THIS POSITION. HE HIT HIS FACE ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND INJURED HIS EYE SOME HOW AND THE HOSPITAL SAID THAT IT WAS DUE TO THE AIRBAG NOT DEPLOYING. WHY DID HIS SEAT GET THROWED BACK LIKE THAT AND BREAK PLEASE EXPLAIN. I COULD HAVE LOST MY HUSBAND..
May 09, 2017
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
RECALL INFO: "THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE SURFACES OF THE FRONT CROSS MEMBERS USED ON CERTAIN VEHICLES IF EXPOSED LONG TERM TO SNOW MELT WATER AND ANTI-FREEZING AGENTS MAY CORRODE DUE TO INSUFFICIENT PERFORMANCE OF THE RUST PROTECTION. SHOULD CORROSION OCCUR, A LOWER CONTROL ARM COULD BECOME DETACHED RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND POTENTIAL COLLISION. IN MAY 2016 WE HAD TO HAVE THE LOWER CONTROL ARM REPLACED ALONG WITH THE FRONT SWAY BARK LINK ASSEMBLY." I BELIEVE THIS IS ALL PART OF THE CORROSION MENTIONED ABOVE IN THE RECALL. CAR WAS MOVING WHEN LOWER CONTROL ARM BECAME DETACHED. $285.00 TO REPLACE LOWER CONTROL ARM & FRONT SWAY BAR LINK. *TR
Jan 05, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE RPM'S IDLED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN.
Sep 06, 2016
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,WHEELS,ENGINE
1 complaint
WAS GOING TO THE GAS STATION TO GET GAS AND CAR ACCELERATED ON IT'S OWN. THEN ENGINE SEIZED. THERE WAS NO POWER STEERING THEN. RAN INTO A DITCH. CAR STARTED SMOKING FROM ENGINE. I DIDN'T KNOW THERE WERE RECALLS ON THESE CARS OR I WOULDN'T HAVE BOUGHT ONE. BIGGEST PAIN I'VE EVER OWNED! THE ENGINE IS WRECKED. I SPENT A LOT OF MONEY ON THIS CAR. I HAVE NO CAR NOW, WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO? *TR
Aug 14, 2014
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
VARIABLE TEMPERATURE KNOB/SHAFT BROKE ON HEATER/A/C CONTROL MODULE BECAUSE IT WAS HARD TO TURN. ALWAYS WAS HARD TO TURN SINCE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASE 4 YEARS AGO. MAKES DEFOGGING OF WINDOWS MORE DIFFICULT AND HAS CAUSED VISIBILITY PROBLEMS IN CERTAIN TYPES OF DAMP CONDITIONS. BAD DESIGN WHICH MITSUBISHI SHOULD FIX. *TR
Apr 10, 2013
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TO AVOID CONTACT WITH A DEER I HIT THE BRAKES SLIDING INTO A UTILITY POLE CAUSING SIGNIFICANT FRONT END DAMAGE TO VEHICLE NO AIR BAGS WERE DEPLOYED. *TR
Oct 08, 2012
VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE BROKE. THE LIKELY CAUSE WAS BINDING OF THE CABLE THAT IS CONTROLLED BY THE KNOB. THIS COULD BE DUE TO POOR ROUTING OF THE CABLE OR THE MECHANISM THAT THE CABLE IS ATTACHED. THE COST OF REPAIRING THIS DESIGN DEFECT RANGES FROM $500-1000 AT THE DEALER. *LN
Dec 23, 2010
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I OWN A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER (OZ RALLY) THAT WAS PURCHASED IN 2002. DURING THE LAST FEW MONTHS OF 2009, I NOTICED MY TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB WAS BECOMING HARDER AND HARDER TO TURN. ON MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2010 IT BROKE COMPLETELY OFF, LEAVING A PARTIAL STUB OF PLASTIC IN THE CONSOLE AND THE REMAINING PLASTIC INSIDE THE KNOB. I FIRST WENT TO TWO AUTO PARTS STORES TO SEE IF THEY CARRIED THIS REPLACEMENT PIECE, AND THEIR PERSONNEL INFORMED ME I NEEDED TO HAVE IT REPAIRED A MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP. I THEN WENT TO THE MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY INFORMED ME THE PART COULD NOT BE REPLACED INDIVIDUALLY, BUT IT WOULD COST $311 TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE CONSOLE IN ADDITION TO THE $150 OR MORE IN LABOR COSTS. I REFUSED TO PAY SUCH AN OUTLANDISH PRICE, CONSIDERING THAT MY CONSOLE WAS IN PERFECTLY WORKING ORDER. I ONLY NEED THE BROKEN PLASTIC MECHANISM REPLACED, NOTHING MORE. AND PAYING APPROXIMATELY $500 TO REPLACE A PLASTIC PIECE IS RIDICULOUS. AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH, I REALIZED THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH OTHER LANCER OWNERS AND THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE INFORMED OF THIS DEFECT. *TR
Mar 04, 2010
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
1/ AT ABOUT 207000 MILES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. DEALERS DIAGNOSIS AND 2 OTHER REPAIR SHOPS : CATALYTIC CONVERTER HAS TO BE REPLACED. COST FOR THIS JOB: $ 1500. I DID NOT REPLACE CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND WAS PERFORMING NORMALLY. THIS HAPPENED FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE, THAT CATALYTIC CONVERTER GIVES UP DURING THE LIFE OF THE CAR. 2/ AT 246,570 MILES WHILE VEHICLE WAS ON, WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR. DEALERS DIAGNOSIS: CAR NEEDS CLUTCH ASSEMBLY AND RESURFACE FLYWHEEL AND CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER. COST FOR THIS REPAIR: ABOUT 1,200 PLUS TAX AGAIN 1ST TIME HAPPENED TO ME THAT CAR NEEDS CLUTCH ASSEMBLY WORK WITH SLAVE CYLINDER DURING THE LIVE OF THE CAR. 4/ WHILE THEY CHECKED THE CAR FOR GEAR PROBLEM THEY RECOMMENDED TO ME TO REPLACE TIMING BELT: COST $ 723 PLUS TAX AND REPLACING VALVE COVER GASKET: COST $ 264 PLUS TAX I BELIEVE THEY RIPPING PEOPLE OFF, BECAUSE WHILE REPLACING TIMING BELT THEY HAVE TO REMOVE VALVE COVER AND THEY SHOULD NOT CHARGE 2X FOR REMOVING VALVE COVER. THIS WAS ESTIMATED BY MITSUBISHI-MAZDA DEALERSHIP IN SAN BERNARDINO, CA. I'M QUESTIONING THEIR PRICES AND ABILITY TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSE AND DO THIS REPAIRS BASED ON THE STATEMENTS THEY MADE AND THEIR PRICES. AFTER EVERY TIME THIS CAR IS SERVICED AT MITSUBISHI DEALER THIS CAR HAVE MORE PROBLEMS: SCREWS MISSING, BROKEN PARTS, ENGINE CHECK LIGHT COMES ON. I NEED FROM MITSUBISHI MOTOR OF NORTH AMERICA INC. LIST OF GOOD REPAIR FACILITIES WHERE THE CAR CAN BE REPAIRED NOT SABOTAGED, WHERE THEY HAVE KNOWLEDGEABLE TECHNICIAN NOT MONKEYS. I HAD A FEW CARS, BUT NEVER HAPPENED THAT CATALYTIC CONVERTER OR CLUTCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DURING THE LIFE OF THE CAR, OR I HAD TO SPENT FEW THOUSAND OF $$ FOR REPAIRS WHILE MAINTAINING THE CAR PROPERLY DURING IT'S LIFE. *TR
Nov 30, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE CAN FILL UP HER GAS TANK ONE DAY AND, BEFORE THE WEEK IS OUT, THE VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE REFUELED. PERIODICALLY, THE CONTACT SMELLS GASOLINE IN HER VEHICLE. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 17.
Mar 12, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, THE CLUTCH FELT AS IF IT HAD LOST PRESSURE. THIS CAUSED A HESITATION IN THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SEEN BY A DEALER. ALSO, THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT BRAKE PADS WORE OUT TOO QUICKLY. THE BRAKES HAD TO BE CHANGED 7 TIMES IN 5 YEARS DUE TO WEAR ON THE PADS. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER, WHERE THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE PROBLEM.
Dec 13, 2006
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I WAS CONVINCED & SHOWN THAT MY BLOWER MOTER WAS WORKING IN TOP CONDITION. BUT ON MY RIDE HOME I WAS DISTURBED TO FIND THAT ONLY SPEED 4, AN OVERDRIVE MODE, WAS WORKING. I CONTACTED THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP WHERE I JUST BOUGHT THE LANCER ES 02', AND WAS TOLD THAT EVERTHING WOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF. [RECALL #C04092 FOR A FAN CONTROLLER REPLACEMENT HAD BEEN DONE 2/23/06 ALONG WITH RECALL #CO505J PCM REFLASH 4 DAYS PRIOR TO WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE] AT THE MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP I PAID $146.31 TO HAVE THE BLOWER RESISTER REPLACED, AND LATER REIMBURSED BY THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP WHERE I PUCHASED THE LANCER. THE BLOWER WORKED GOOD, THEN ON & OFF. IT BLEW AGAIN WITHIN A MONTH. I CALLED THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP, WHERE I LEFT MESSAGES, NO RETURN. THEY WERE TO CONTACT ME, AND WERE NEVER TIMELY. AT THE SECONG DIAGNOSIS THE MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THE BLOWER MOTOR WAS BAD, CAUSING THE RESISTOR TO GO $380.00! I WAS NOT ABOUT TO PAY THAT PRICE UPFRONT WITHOUT A GAURANTEE OF REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP, WHO NOW CLAIMS IT SHOULD BE COVERED BY THE MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP WHEN THEY THEMSELVES REIMBURSED ME THE FIRST TIME. BEYOND BOTH DENYING THE COST, THE MISUBISHI DEALERSHIP STRIPPED MY ALLOYS OF MOST OF THEIR CROME WHILE PROFORMING THEIR "COURTESY CAR WASH"!! WHILE CONVERSING WITH THE MANAGER FOR AN HOUR, HE CLAIMS THAT THE BRAND OF ALLOYS, ADAMS, WHICH WERE ON THE CAR WHEN PURCHASED, ARE KNOWN TO CRACK AND CHIP. THEY HANDED ME MY KEYS IN THE PARKING LOT AND LEFT ME WITH NO RECEIPT & NO COMPASSION. I LEFT THE MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP AFTER CALLING MY MOTHER & DROVE TO MY MECHANIC WHO HAD JUST DONE WORK ON MY CAR EARLIER THAT DAY. REPLACING THE RIGHT FRONT BEARING WHICH WAS AN OPEN BEARING WHICH LEAKED GREASE OUT AND STABILIZER END LINK- $403.03- ASTONISHED TO SEE MY RIMS, HE NOTICED RIGHT AWAY, AS I DID, I TOOK PICTURES IMIDIATELY, BUT WHO IS RESPONSIBLE I AM UNSURE. I HAVEN'T THE FINANCES, NOR THE PATIENTS, TO BE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF WHEN OTHERS ARE AT FAULT.
Oct 15, 2006
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
A TIRE BLEW OUT ON A 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER. IN THE PROCESS OF CHANGING THE TIRE, THE JACK COLLAPSED. NO-ONE WAS HURT. THERE ARE OTHER INSTANCES OF THIS HAPPENING TO OTHER OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES. MITSUBISHI'S NORTH AMERICAN CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED. AFTER LITTLE INTEREST IN THIS INCIDENT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE WAS ASKED IF THIS WASN'T CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE AND OF OTHER REPORTS OF SIMILAR INCIDENTS ON THE INTERNET. AFTER BEING TOLD TO TAKE THE JACK TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER TO VERIFY THE JACK WAS DEFECTIVE THE JACK WAS REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE AND THE OLD JACK WAS KEPT BY THE MITSUBISHI DEALER. PHOTO'S OF THE BROKEN JACK WERE TAKEN. *JB
Aug 31, 2006
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
IN OCTOBER OF 2003, A TECHNICAL BULLETIN WAS ISSUED ON MY CAR. THE BULLETIN READS: 2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER 02 - BLOWER [PART 138110] TSB NO: 0355008 NHTSA ID: , OCTOBER 01, 2003 : REPLACEMENT: SUMMARY: DEBRIS (SUCH AS LEAVES, ETC) ENTERING THE FRONT COWL AREA MAY CLOG THE EVAPORATOR HOUSING DRAIN TUBE. IF THIS OCCURS, THE EVAPORATOR HOUSING MAY FILL UP WITH CONDENSATION AND OVERFLOW INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, AND INTO THE BLOWER MOT...IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2005, I PAID MY LOCAL MITSUBISHI DEALER $310.50 TO REPLACE MY BLOWER MOTOR BECAUSE DEBRIS HAD CLOGGED THE MOTOR CAUSING IT TO SHORT OUT AND RESULTING IN LEAVING MY PASSENGER FLOOR BOARD UNDER AN INCH OF WATER. MY CAR NOW, IS OUT OF WARRANTY. HOWEVER, IF I HAD KNOWN THERE WAS A PROBLEM, I COULD HAVE BOUGHT A FILTER TO PREVENT THIS PROBLEM. MY QUESTION IS: AT WHAT POINT DOES NHTSA MAKE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS INTO RECALLS? IT IS ABSOLUTELY ABSURD WHEN MY DEALER INFORMS ME THAT TSB'S ARE ONLY FIXED IF A CUSTOMER COMPLAINS ABOUT THE CAR. IT'S JUST PLAIN WRONG FOR MITSUBISHI TO KNOW THERE IS SOMETHING POTENTIALLY WRONG WITH YOUR CAR AND NOT INFORM YOU OF IT. FOR INSTANCE THERE IS ANOTHER BULLETIN ON THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB IN MY CAR. NOW, I READ THESE TSB'S AND IT JUST SO HAPPENED THAT MITSUBISHI WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM WHEN MY CAR WAS UNDER WARRANTY. I HAD TO REPLACE THE CV BOOT, THE VALVE COVERS AND SEALS, AND WHEN I GOT THE BLOWER MOTOR REPLACED I HAD TO REPLACE THE THERMOSTAT AND REDO MY COOLANT. I'M ALSO CURRENTLY HAVING A PROBLEM WITH MY CRUISE CONTROL. EVERY TIME I CRANK MY CAR UP, MY CRUISE CONTROL IS ALREADY ON. I TURN THE CRUISE CONTROL OFF, AND TURN MY CAR BACK ON, AND THE CRUISE CONTROL IS ON AGAIN. I WAS TWO DAYS BEFORE PAYING $600 FOR THE TORQUE CONVERTER TO BE REPLACED, AND FINALLY A RECALL WAS ISSUED, THANK GOD! HOW MANY THINGS HAVE TO GO WRONG WITH MY CAR FOR IT TO BE DEEMED A LEMON AND MADE TO BE SENT BACK? LORD, SOMEBODY PLEASE REPLY BACK TO ME AND TELL ME WHAT TO DO!?! *NM
Apr 27, 2006
SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ON 5 OCCASIONS NOW WHEN I HIT THE BRAKES TO SLOW DOWN THE ENGINE ACCELERATES ON IT'S OWN REVVING EXTREMELY LOUD. IF I DON'T PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND TURN OFF THE IGNITION IT FEELS LIKE IT WILL TAKE OFF AND CAUSE A SEVERE ACCIDENT. I BOUGHT THIS CAR BRAND NEW AND THIS FIRST OCCURRED ABOUT 6 MONTHS AFTER BUYING THE VEHICLE. I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE VEHICLE AND A FEW MONTHS LATER HAPPENED AGAIN. IT HAPPENS SPORADICALLY BUT WHEN IT HAPPENS IT IS QUITE SCARY. NOW MY SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON AND AUTOZONE PRINTED ME A RECEIPT THAT INDICATED THERE IS A MALFUNCTION IN THE TURBINE SPEED SENSOR. I AM GOING TO GIVE THIS A TRY AND HOPE IT RESOLVES MY ISSUE. IT SEEMS THIS HAS BEEN A MALFUNCTION SINCE THEY SOLD ME THE VEHICLE. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH THIS VEHICLE.. THE VEHICLE ALSO HAS ISSUES WITH THE REAR SUSPENSION.. IT SOUNDS LIKE I AM DRIVING AN HUGE SCHOOL BUS... IT SQUEAKS AND SOMETIMES SOUNDS LIKE THE BACK END IS GOING TO FALL APART...*JB
Mar 15, 2006
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I WENT INTO A DITCH (WAS RUN OFF THE ROAD) PASSENGER DOOR HIT A POLE, AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND PASSENGER FRACTURED HER COLLAR BONE. THIS HAPPENED IN 2005. ALSO THE BLOW MOTOR HAS RUSTED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, I FOUND OUT THROUGH THE INTERNET THAT WATER FLOWS INTO THE MOTOR THROUGH THE WIPERS. IT COST OVER $400. TO REPLACE THE MOTOR. *JB
Feb 08, 2006
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
2002 MITSUBISHI LANCER ES . HAVE HAD FOUR (4) ACCIDENTS WITH THIS VEHICLE FROM DATE OF PURCHASE TO PRESENT APPROXIMATELY 13 MONTHS IN 2/2004 THE AUTOMOBILE STARTED STALLING, AND DURING THE STALL IT WOULD ACCELERATE, AND THE BRAKES WOULD NOT FUNCTION DURING THIS. ALSO, THE TRANSMISSION MADE REVVING SOUNDS PERIODICALLY.I MADE AN APPOINTMENT AT THE MITSUBISHI DEALER ?BELLSOUTH MITSUBISHI? IN SAYREVILLE NJIN FEB 04? AND EXPLAINED THE PROBLEM TO THE SERVICE DEPT.THE PUT THE CAR ON A MACHINE FOR TESTS AND NO ERRORS WERE FOUND. I THEN NOTIFIED THE SALES PERSON THAT SOLD ME THE CAR THEY REQUESTED ME TO LEAVE IT FOR 4 HOURS TO RUN TESTS ETC? THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. 12/17/04 WHEN THE VEHICLE STALLED AT A STOP SIGN AND ACCELERATED INTO THE TRUCK AHEAD OF ME CAUSING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE FRONT ,THE BUMPER, AND HOOD OF MY CAR. SINCE THEN THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION IS MAKING MORE LOUD REVVING SOUNDS SINCE THAT INCIDENT. IT SEEMS TO BE WORSENING.ON 12/30/04 AT A STOP LIGHT THE CAR ACCELERATED WHILE MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKETHE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK?THE MOTOR REVVED UP VERY LOUDLY AND THE CAR SHOOK FOR ABOUT 30SECONDS TO A MINUTE THEN WENT BACK TO ?NORMAL? I CALLED THE BELL MITSUBISHI IN RAHWAYNJ.IMMEDIATELY AND THEY ROAD TESTED THE VEHICLE AND COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM.12/31/04 I TOOK THE CAR BACK INTO BELLSOUTHMITSUBISHI IN SAYREVILLE,NJTHEY PUT THE CAR ON A MACHINE ?SORRY THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED?THE VEHICLE ALSO HAS A MUCH EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE CAUSING 2 SEPARATE ACCIDENTS THE CAR ACCELERATES SUDDENLY, TAKES LONG TO SLOW DOWN TO A STOP IN 2/04 DURING A SNOW STORM I WAS DRIVING APPX 25MPH THE BRAKES TOOK TO LONG TO APPLY AND I LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR .IN THE RAIN THE CAR FAILED TO STOP AGAIN WHEN BRAKES WHERE APPLIED AND STARTED TO SKID INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I TRIED TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AWAY TO AVOID COLLISION THE STEERING WAS NOT RESPONSIVE THERFORE RESULTING IN COLLISION. AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY IN ANY ACCIDENT. *AK
Jan 05, 2005
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TIRES
1 complaint
THE BRAKES WORE OUT PREMATURELY. THE PART WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES, BUT THE PROBLEM CONTINUED EXISTS. *AK THE VEHICLE LEFT BLACK OIL SPOTS ON THE GARAGE GROUND NEAR ALL FOUR TIRES THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD IT WAS FROM EXCESS FACTORY OVER COATING. THE BRAKES SQUEALED CONTINUOUSLY, THE FRONT BRAKE PADS WORE OUT PREMATURELY AND A NAIL WAS IN THE SIDEWALL OF THE REAR TIRE AND COULDN'T BE REPAIRED BECAUSE TO THE FRONT AND REAR STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO LEAKAGE, HOWEVER THE CONSUMER WAS GETTING DIFFERENT OPINIONS REGARDING THE STRUTS. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE CALIPERS AND OR BRAKE DESIGN WHICH CAUSED THE BRAKES TO PREMATURELY WEAR OUT. *SCC THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED *JB
Nov 12, 2003
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
WITH THE AIR CONDITION ON, THE WINDOWS FOGGED UP, WHICH WAS BELIEVED TO BE FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE WINDOWS, ALSO THE BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DESIGNED TOO CLOSE TOGETHER. SCC *JB
Feb 12, 2003
TIRES
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH AND WITHOUT WARNING FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE BLOWOUT. PLEASE PROVIDE THE SIZE AND DOT#. DEALER NOTIFIED. TX
Dec 30, 2002
SEATS
1 complaint
SPRINGS IN SEAT ARE MAKING NOISE DUE TO RUSTING.
Nov 12, 2002
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer have?
The 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer currently has 155 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer?
The most common problems reported for the 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2002 MITSUBISHI Lancer comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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