Is the Mitsubishi Lancer Reliable?
2002–2017 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Mitsubishi Lancer? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2016 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 77 | Good |
| 2015 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 77 | Good |
| 2014 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2013 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2012 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2011 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 77 | Good |
| 2010 | 3 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2009 | 5 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2008 | 4 | 0 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Lancer Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Lancer scores exactly at the sedan average.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?+
The Mitsubishi Lancer scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 15 recall campaigns and 0 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Lancer is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2016 Lancer achieved the highest reliability score of 77/100 with 1 recall and 0 complaints.
How many miles does a Lancer last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Mitsubishi Lancer owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Lancer will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Mitsubishi Lancer Research
Check a Specific Mitsubishi Lancer VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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