Mitsubishi Lancer Common Problems and Solutions
Slow Fan Speed and Ventilation Loss
Problem:
Your fan is rotating slowly, and you lack ventilation.
Solution:
This is usually a faulty blower motor, but it's worth quickly checking the resistor that controls it first. If the resistor is working properly and hasn't burnt out, you'll need to order a new blower motor and replace the faulty one. You can find what you need on our list of parts.
Difficulty level
Heat Blower Motor
Steering is Pulling
Problem:
The steering pulls to one side when you drive straight.
Solution:
The suspension system on the Lancer is quite complex, and even skilled mechanics can make errors with alignment, which is the cause of the issue here. You will need to order a complete set of new tyres from our Lancer parts list, as these will have experienced significant wear. Then, you will need to perform wheel alignment, which is very difficult to carry out.
Difficulty level
Tyres
Brake Failure
Problem:
The brakes do not activate when you press the brake pedal.
Solution:
The older the production model, the more likely you are to encounter this problem. It is caused by a faulty brake booster vacuum check valve. Order your replacement from our store and remove the defective one. Installation is very straightforward.
Difficulty level
Engine Stalling
Problem:
The engine has begun to stall regularly and may sometimes just cut out.
Solution:
This could be caused by a variety of issues, but the main culprit is usually a faulty MAP sensor. Replace your MAP sensor quickly and easily, and you'll find it on our drop-down parts list. However, the problem could also be a clogged throttle body interfering with normal operation. If your throttle body is clogged, you can remove it, clean it out, and reinstall it fairly easily.
Difficulty level
MAP Sensor
Check Engine Light and 'Slow Down' Warning
Problem:
The check engine light is on, and you see the warning message 'Slow Down', but the car appears to be functioning normally.
Solution:
Your gearbox overheating is caused by the transmission control module (TCM), which is to blame. If you don't address this issue promptly, you'll need a complete overhaul of both your gearbox and TCM. Prevent that by replacing your TCM now, which we always have in stock and can deliver to you.
Difficulty level
ECU Transmission Control Unit
Oil Leak
Problem:
Oil is leaking onto the road.
Solution:
Check the gap between the towing hook and the oil cooler hose. If the gap is less than 15mm, it is the wrong pipe and needs to be ordered from our parts list. If the gap exceeds 15mm, the pipe may be damaged and will also need replacing.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
The current version of the Lancer has trouble starting the engine because of a software problem.
Solution:
A software update is available to fix this problem.
Difficulty level
Air conditioning failure
Problem:
If the air conditioning isn’t blowing ice-cold air on the colder settings, you have a problem with low refrigerant.
Solution:
You need to re-gas the system to fix this issue. Watch the video below to see how it is done:
Difficulty level
Seat failure
Problem:
The leather on the seats can wear out prematurely, and the foam that makes up the seat base also wears down quite quickly. If the foam has worn away, you will notice a lack of comfort and/or support.
Solution:
You might try replacing the foam and having the seats recovered, but it could be cheaper to look for your replacement seat here.
Difficulty level
Automatic gearbox problems
Problem:
The automatic gearboxes in this car are known for having problems with gear changes. If you notice hesitant shifting or slipping gears, a replacement gearbox will be needed. They are sealed units.
Solution:
As mentioned earlier, these automatic gearboxes are sealed units, which means the entire gearbox needs replacing. We can assist you in finding a replacement gearbox at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Rust issues
Problem:
Some versions of the Lancer are Japanese imports, meaning they do not meet the same European standards. The Japanese do not salt their roads in winter, so the imported versions lack the same corrosion protections. As a result, this vehicle has a higher risk of rust when used in Europe.
Solution:
You should regularly check underneath the car and remove any dirt or debris that could cause rust. If there are any flakes of rust, ensure they are treated early to avoid major repairs.
Difficulty level
Overheating and Fast battery depletion
Problem:
The engine is overheating, and you are losing battery charge rapidly. Steering may also become more difficult.
Solution:
The drive belt may be made from the incorrect material, which led to a recall of the Lancers manufactured between December 2007 and February 2009. The belt will wear at an angle, causing it to slip off the pulleys, which leads to the issues. Order a replacement drive belt from our parts list and install it.
Difficulty level