JA32U8FW7CU0106562012 MITSUBISHI Lancer
Executive Summary
2012 MITSUBISHI Lancer was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There is 1 open recall on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 19 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- ▸1 open recall — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- ▸1 injury reported across 19 owner complaints
- ▸Engine/Powertrain is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- ▸Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
- Make
- MITSUBISHI
- Model
- Lancer
- Year
- 2012
- Body Style
- Sedan/Saloon
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Drive Type
- 4x2
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 2.4L
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC)
- Assembly
- MIZUSHIMA, JAPAN
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
- ▸Engine recall
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
A snapped timing belt causes immediate, catastrophic engine damage — bent valves, destroyed pistons. No warning. Replace before the interval, not after.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
One failed component has created stress on connected systems. Repair costs compound quickly — a $500 fix can become $3,000+ if cascade damage is ignored.
NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 1 recall below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 1 recall is ~66%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
MITSUBISHI has a below-average recall completion rate (80%). Open recalls on this vehicle may go unaddressed longer than average (~24 months). Verify completion before purchase.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~24 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
SummaryMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Lancer, 2008-2012 Outlander, 2010-2012 Lancer Sportback, and 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with either a 4B11 or 4B12 engine. The drive belt automatic tensioner flange may crack, allowing the accessory drive belt to detach.Read full details...
~34% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
42% of complaints filed in Jun & Sep — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.
▸ Valve and piston damage — timing chain/belt failure causes immediate catastrophic engine damage at any speed
The blue line shows 19 total NHTSA complaints filed over 9 years, with the worst year being 2021 (5 complaints).
The amber reliability line averaged 89/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 65/100 in 2018.
Notably, despite 19 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.
Red dots on the amber line flag 3 years (2016, 2018, 2024) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $48,614 (~$810/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | JA32U8FW7CU010656 |
| Model Year | 2012 |
| Make | MITSUBISHI |
| Model | Lancer |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Sedan/Saloon |
| Doors | 4 |
| Drive Type | 4x2 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Displacement (L) | 2.4 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC) |
| Assembly City | MIZUSHIMA |
| Assembly Country | JAPAN |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | JA3 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 7 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | C |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | U |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 010656 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 1 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 19 |
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 4/19/2026, 1:32:39 PM.