VIN REPORT

JA32V2FW4GU0099172016 MITSUBISHI Lancer

26of 100
Moderate Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
2
2 campaigns found
Safety Grade
C+
77/100 composite
Complaints
29
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
10 yrs
Made in JAPAN
BUYPurchase Verdict

2016 MITSUBISHI Lancer was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 29 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

26 MPG
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2016 MITSUBISHI Lancer

2016 MITSUBISHI Lancer was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 29 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 2 injuries reported across 29 owner complaints
  • Common owner-reported issues: transmission failure, loss of power, unintended acceleration
  • 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
Owner Complaint Intelligence

29 owner complaints filed — top areas: Engine/Powertrain (72%), Electrical (10%), Body/Structure (7%). Common issues: transmission failure, loss of power, unintended acceleration. 1 crash reported.

26
of 100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
2 Contributing Risk Factors
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
MITSUBISHI
Model
Lancer
Year
2016
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
2.4L
Doors
4
Manufacturer
MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC)
Assembly
KURASHIKI, OKAYAMA, JAPAN
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: KURASHIKI, OKAYAMA

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 KURASHIKI, OKAYAMA

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

C+
Score: 77/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety27/30
Complaint History30/30
10/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Engine/Powertrain
1 recall21 complaints
Electrical
1 recall3 complaints

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls2

Deferred Failure Risk

Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones

82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 5 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~120,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
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.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
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.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 10 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

2 RECALLS
2found

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

64%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

MITSUBISHI Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
80%Poor

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

Avg Fix Time
24mo
#17V609000
Invalid Date

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY

SummaryMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Outlander, 2015-2016 Lancer and Outlander Sport, and 2015 Lancer Evolution vehicles. These vehicles may have defective relays that can result in an engine stall, reduced engine power or the engine overheating.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the engine stalls, there is an increased the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#16V563000
Invalid Date

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

SummaryMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles and 2016 Outlander and Lancer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a constant velocity transmission (CVT) that, in certain driving conditions, may cause a delay in the vehicle accelerating.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA hesitation during acceleration can increase the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

Recall Intelligence

Detailed analysis of recall history and severity

28/07/2016
2 total campaigns
ElectricalEngine/Powertrain
1
Part Replacements
1
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
1 in 14

2 injuries reported across 29 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.

Complaints29

Complaint Intelligence

29 complaints analyzed across 6 system categories

Engine/Powertrain
21
Electrical
3
Body/Structure
2
Other
1
Safety Systems
1 crash1 inj1
Visibility
1 inj1
2017
2
2018
1
2019
2
2020
2
2021
6
2022
6
2023
4
2024
3
2025
3
5% trend in recent years (increasing complaints)
Stable -14%
6
Last 24 months
7
Prior 24 months
PEAKS SPRING (MAR–MAY)

35% of complaints filed in Mar & Oct — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Transmission slip2
Electrical failure2
Engine stalling1
Conditions Reported
Startup (3)Rain/wet (3)Highway/high-speed (3)Parking/low-speed (2)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

29 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

29found
1
Crash
2
Injuries
ODI #11674840POWER TRAIN

It’s throwing a P084A code and it feels like the transmission is about to let loose. I bought the car with 30,000 on it in 2016 and it has a hair over 136,000 and ever since I’ve had it it’s always had this transmission lag jerk in it. Very scuttle but you can feel it. Then all of a sudden it just started going into limp mode, hi low hi low rev, jerking and couldn’t get over 30 mph. This looks like a continuous problem with these transmission and gives Mitsubishi a bad taste in some peoples mouths. I’m out of a decently nice car and probably a couple thousand dollars for a new transmission.

ODI #11658645POWER TRAIN

Recently the transmission has started to shudder when first driving from a stop. It only happens under low acceleration. If you push the accelerator pedel firmly it will not shudder. Wondering if this is a recall about to happen? It started on or about 4/2/2025 but is continuing to happen.

ODI #11644175POWER TRAIN

The car is bucking hi low hi low and then the service transmission light is coming on. We brought the car in a couple of weeks ago and I thought this was suppose to he fixed. It is alot worse now

ODI #11618499POWER TRAIN

Loss of power on acceleration, rpms going up and down, hesitation in acceleration, going into limp mode won't accelerate over 25-40mph pulled code P084A shop believes it needs a complete replacement based on their computer systems repair procedures guidelines. Car has just over 107k miles on it and is a pre-owned. No information was given regarding this issue having happened or if it was ever repaired based on the recall in 2016 but shows as not having any unrepaired recalls when searching the VIN in the search tool. Cannot afford a new transmission not sure what to do.

ODI #11616655POWER TRAIN

Purchased the vehicle with only 59K miles in May 2024. Transmission immediately started acting up, hesitating, jumping RPMs, and delayed acceleration and loss of power. Service Transmission light came on once but after restarting the light turned off, but still has the issues. Have had the fluid and gasket replaced but did not remedy the problem. This is very dangerous to drive, especially when crossing roads with loss of power and very delayed acceleration and RPMs jumping to the point of wheels spinning out.

ODI #11607451STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I've had the vehicle for 7 years and after inspection performed by the dealer, there is so much subframe rot that my car will not pass the next inspection due in April. I've contacted Mitsubishi and they said there is nothing they can do as there isn't any recall. This model of Mitsubishi has had recalls on many different previous years, such as 2005, 2010 and many online reports of 2014 with the same problem.

ODI #11532803POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

I purchased this car in 2016 brand new from the dealer. Have kept up with its maintenance but in the past couple of months, the car is not taking off. What I mean by that is that the transmission slips and won't allow the car to gain speed there is a delay in the car accelerating. This is the second time that it has happened this year and its very unsafe to use a car this way and its less than 10 years old.

ODI #11530978POWER TRAIN

CVT transmission will not catch gears as it keeps slipping. Leaves it in limp mode. Unable to accelerate beyond 25MPH. CVT fluid/ filter Service intervals have been correct as well as a fresh J4 CVT fluid/filter service at dealership. This had occurred at 103,XXX miles. Wildly, I was on my way in to my appointment with the dealership to do a CVT Fluid/Filter Replacement when the issue arises. Of course, just after warranty had expired. Awaiting dealership to give a diagnosis.

ODI #11524258POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

2016 SE 2.4L AWC. Purchased car in February 2022 at 66k miles. In December of 2022 at 78k miles, car lost majority power while traveling at 40 MPH, threw 'Tranmission Servie Required' warning light. Drove 3 blocks home, parked for 2 hours. Turned car on and drove normally without lights. Previous event happened x3 before changing transmission fluid in February 2023. From February to May, roughly 500 miles, no codes occured. However, occasional hesitation when accelerating from a stop. Then, in May 2023, while traveling 80 MPH, RPMs shot to 6000, car began to lose power. Pulled to shoulder, turned car off and on, and was able to travel home without issue, another 15 miles.

ODI #11516229POWER TRAIN

I started to experience hesitation in the cars power and shifting “gears” in the cvt, it started to feel very rough and the rpm would jump up and down. The owner of the dealership tried to tell me it was normal. I knew something was wrong. I left the dealership and not even kidding… 20 minutes later my cvt gave out and the light came on. I purchased the vehicle with 27,700 miles. I was shocked, they had it replaced but i never received any paperwork on where it was replaced. The car started to feel fine for about 20k miles and then boom it’s back. I am going to take my car into the dealership once again and I am just not a happy overall owner. I have had over $21,000 in repairs on this vehicle! We’re talking from wiper motor going out to exhaust pipes needing replaced. The warranty company has luckily saved me with most repairs but i’m sure they are not happy either. I am now at 95k miles and on my way to take it in to see what’s wrong this time. The car has terrible acceleration and just doesn’t want to shift. I shouldn’t be feeling a huge jerk around 30mph from a cvt. I also told the owner of my dealership and his mechanics that their is a weird odor that smells like radiator fluid coming from the passenger floor. It’s completely soaked all the time and even has a weird texture to it. The owner and mechanics once again tried to make me feel stupid. This is unrepaired and has been happening since i bought the vehicle. I have been trying to get it fixed but i’m told “you spilled something” which is documented in the repairs notes. I just want to drive this car without something else giving out. I believe my dealership can’t give me the help my car needs and i’m concerned knowing i still owe $11k on the vehicle. Main Concern - 2nd CVT failing (something was missed that’s causing this) - Passenger Floor Boards Wet (getting no help and being told i spilled something)

ODI #11497959VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

Vehicle accelerates by it self

ODI #11483994STRUCTURE

The contact owns a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated while driving down his driveway at an undisclosed speed, he heard an abnormal popping sound coming from underneath the front end of the vehicle. The contact engaged the parking brake. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and raised up on a lift. The vehicle was diagnosed with a severely corroded front subframe. Additionally, there were large holes in the subframe. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle was not drivable. The dealer and other unknown dealers were notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the 10 years/ 100,000 mile corrosion warranty could not cover the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,130.

ODI #11482208ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 50 MPH, the RPM increased from 2,000 to 5,000. Additionally, speedometer became inoperable, he brake was not working as designed, and the Service Transmission message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who referred the contact to the dealer. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact stated the failure was similar to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V609000 (Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

ODI #11457333ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated he was not sure if any warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to safely pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to his residence. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched the failure and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V609000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

ODI #11455748POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would hesitate upon depression of the accelerator pedal without warning. The contact then stated that while at a complete stop, the vehicle stalled without warning. After multiple failed attempts to restart the vehicle, the contact towed it to his home where it remained. The contact called the manufacturer on multiple occasions and was initially informed that his vehicle was previously included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V563000 (Power Train) however, no further assistance could be offered because of the prior recall repair. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

ODI #11445778POWER TRAIN

It I not wanting to go or like ir catch gears

ODI #11441857POWER TRAIN

Car has 76,470 miles. Took to dealership due to loss of power and jerking hard during takeoffs and said that it needed new transmission. Dealership looked at it said it had internal failure codes for transmission. When doing research there was a recall in 2016 for this specific car for issues that this car is having and the specific transmission. Spoke with woman on hotline and was told to file a report since some cars could have been overlooked in the recall possibly. Recall was for 2016 Mitsubishi lancers with CVT transmission and was made during the time frame that the recall was going on.

ODI #11439506POWER TRAIN

I was driving on the way home, my car started to skip and jerking. Went to Mitsubishi and told me I needed a whole new transmission replacement on a 2016 Lancer with only 81,000 miles on it. It seemed to never catch up to speed smoothly. Which I was terrified I was going to wreck otw home that day.

ODI #11438417POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Our 2016 lancer has suddenly started hesitating/ taking seconds to shift from park to reverse/drive. Also while driving vehicle its rpms fluctuate causing a shudder and surge in power or acceleration. This is a very alarming problem as it puts mine and my kids safety as it hesitates to shift and while driving it loses power and then powers up by itself. We have taken to a transmission shop (HIgH TECH Transmission) and now a dealer (Mission Mitsubishi) and both have replicated problem and pulled code but dealer will not honor recall or repair it. There was a safety recall for 2016 lancers with a cvt8 (SR-16-006) that produces a code P084A as well which and that if both were present a replacement transmission should be approved. All information was pulled from Mitsubishi website, and I called them and spoke to Carla did not give a last name and she advised me that our lancer doesn’t have a recall and I said well is it possible you’ll missed some vehicles that have the same problem from the recalls you’ll have already put out? And she got snappy and said to contact safer car.gov; so here I am, presenting facts to you'll that my 2016 lancer may and hopefully is part of a recall which in result to not being identified or checked out caused more damage as stated it would on the manufacturers website. And needs to be fixed due to not being identified in recall so preventive measures could have been taken. Please our vehicle is experiencing the problem as a recall Mitsubishi put out but failed to identify our lancer and now is experiencing hesitation in CVT trans, and shudder/surge in transmission.

ODI #11405458POWER TRAIN

AUTOMATIC CVT TRANSMISSION BEGAN FAILING AT 60,000 MILES. TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS CHANGED AT 30K MILES, 55K MILES, 80K, AND 98,000 MILES. TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED AT 98,000 MILES. THIS IS DUE TO A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AND WE SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS OUT OF POCKET. PLEASE OPEN A RECALL. THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED SEVERAL TIMES ON THIS VIN SERIES. THE VEHICLE HESITATES TO SWITCH GEARS AND CANNOT ENTER 4TH GEAR OR HIGHER. TRANSMISSION SLIPS WITH ACCELERATION. PLEASE RECALL!

ODI #11404737VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

WHEN I TRY TO ACCELERATE, THE CAR STARTS OUT REALLY SLOW. THERE IS A LOT OF JERKING AND ACCELERATION ISSUES. WHEN I TRY TO ACCELERATE, IT ACTS LIKE IT IS SHIFTED TO L, BUT THEN IT SPEEDS UP. THIS IS A CONSTANT ISSUE.

ODI #11399625POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

AS I WAS DRIVING IT IT SEEMS TO HESITATE ON ACCELERATING AFTER A FEW STOPS THE TRANSMISSION LIGHT WOULD COME ON FOR A LITTLE BIT THEN GO OFF. SAME WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. AS I WAS DRIVING IT TO WORK ON THE HIGHWAY.. IT SUDDENLY STARTED LOSING POWER AND I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND PARK IT AT A GAS STATION WHERE IT WENT COMPLETELY DEAD.. I HAD AAA TOW IT.. IT STARTED UP BUT THE SHIFTING IS NOT ENGAGING RIGHT AWAY. HAD THE SOFTWARE UPDATED IN 2019.. THE CVT TRANSMISSION ARE FULL OF PROBLEMS. IT SEEMS TO HAVE THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS THE RECALL BUT MY CAR WAS NOT RECALLED ACCORDING TO THE VIN NUMBER.. I HAD A FLUSH DONE RECENTLY AND I HAVE ALSO HAD THE OIL CHANGED WHEN NEEDED. THE ACCELERATION HESITATION THEN LOSS OF POWER WHILE DRIVING 60 ON THE FREEWAY IS A SAFETY ISSUE... A LOT OF SEMI TRUCKS TRAVEL THAT HIGHWAY AND THEY CANT STOP WHEN A CAR LOSES POWER IN FRONT OF THEM.

ODI #11331284ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE CAR DOESNT CRANK AND WE HAVE TO WAIT LIKE 2 OR 3 MIN AND THEN WILL CRANK BUT STRUGGLING.

ODI #11299752AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

ACCIDENT THAT RESULTED IN THE CAR BEING DECLARED TOTAL LOSS. THE CAR WAS HIT IN THE UPPER FRONT AND SIDE AREA OF DRIVERS SIDE. DURING THE ACCIDENT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. RESULTED IN INJURIES, OF COURSE. THE CAR WAS MAKING LEFT HANDED TURN FROM RESIDENTIAL AREA ONTO A BUSY MAIN STREET. AND THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS NOT PAYING ATTENTION AND HIT THE CAR WHILE IT WAS TRYING TO TURN. THE CAR WAS GOING APPROXIMATELY 15-20 MPH. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS GOING 40-45 MPH. WHAT WOULD CAUSE THE AIR BAGS TO MALFUNCTION?? BECAUSE I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW WHY INJURIES HAD TO EVEN OCCUR SINCE THEY ONLY HAPPENED DUE TO THE MALFUNCTION OF THE AIR BAGS.

ODI #11267399POWER TRAIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 MITSUBISHI LANCER. AFTER COMING TO A STOP, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. IN ADDITION, THE SERVICE TRANSMISSION WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V563000(POWER TRAIN). THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER, BUT HIS CALL WAS NOT ANSWERED. BAKERSFIELD MITSUBISHI (4600 WIBLE RD, BAKERSFIELD, CA 93313, (661) 398-9422) WAS ALSO CONTACTED, BUT A REPRESENTATIVE GAVE HIM INFORMATION REGARDING AN UNRELATED VEHICLE ISSUE. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED A QUOTE FOR THE REPAIR COST AND WAS OFFERED NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,600.

ODI #11265637POWER TRAIN

THE LIGHT STATING TO SERVICE MY TRANSMISSION CAME ON. THE MAINTENANCE MILEAGE WAS WITHIN STATED PARAMETERS.SERVICE WAS COMPLETED, TRANSMISSION FLUID CHANGED. DROVE AWAY AND THE LIGHT TURNED ON. MY TRANSMISSION FAILED IN APRIL OF 2019.

ODI #11085158VISIBILITY1 INJURY

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH, WHEN I HEARD A VERY LOUD SOUND, LIKE A GUNSHOT, AND MY SUNROOF SHATTERED. THERE WAS NO ROCK OR IMPACT TO MY CAR, IT JUST SPONTANEOUSLY EXPLODED WITH GLASS RAINING EVERYWHERE. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY TOLD ME IT WAS CLEAR THAT THERE WAS NO ROCK IMPACT TO THE SUNROOF BECAUSE OF THE WAY THAT THE REMAINING GLASS WAS BOWED OUTWARD. HOWEVER, WHEN THEY SUBMITTED THE DOCUMENTATION TO MITSUBISHI CORPORATE, AFTER 8 HOURS OF REVIEW, THEY DECLINED TO COVER IT UNDER WARRANTY, STATING THAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN DUE TO A ROCK IMPACT OR OTHER COLLISION AND NOT BECAUSE OF A GLASS OR MANUFACTURER DEFECT.

ODI #10979053POWER TRAIN

I HAVE NOTICED AN ISSUE WITH MY CARS ACCELERATION FROM A 0 MILE PER HOUR STARTING POINT TO A 30 MPH. IT IS VERY SUDDEN AND RANDOM. IT HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES FROM A STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR A STOP SIGN. THERE IS A SECOND TO AS LONG AS 4 SECOND HESITATION IN ACCELERATION. ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS PRESSED AND THE CAR TAKES OFF FOR A BRIEF SECOND OR 2 BEFORE THE FEW SECOND HESITATION OCCURS. IT CAN BE DANGEROUS IF THIS OCCURS WHEN PULLING OUT ON A BUSY HIGHWAY WITH TRAFFIC COMING. FOR THOSE FEW SECONDS THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO BUT PRESS THE GAS PEDAL HARDER WHEN THOUGH THE CAR IS NOT DOING ANYTHING. AFTER THOSE FEW SECONDS THE CAR TRANSMISSION KICKS IN AND YOU EVENTUALLY HAVE CONTROL IN ACCELERATION ONCE AGAIN. TOOK TO THE DEALER TODAY. THEY SAID NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. ONLINE I SEE A SIMILAR RECALL ON THE OUTLANDER TRANSMISSION BUT SERVICE TECH SAYS HE CHECKED AND NOTHING ON THE LANCER. THEY DROVE MY CAR AND OF COURSE IT DON'T HAPPEN. IT'S VERY RANDOM. IT USUALLY HAPPENS ONCE A WEEK. IT HAS PROB OCCURRED ABOUT 10 TIMES IF NOT MORE. THERE IS NO WAY TO EXPECT IT SO NOW I HAVE TO TAKE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN I'M ABOUT TO PULL OUT ON A BUSY ROAD WITH TRAFFIC COMING MY WAY. HAS ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS ISSUE WITH THEIR LANCER?

ODI #10968384POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I HAVE BEEN DRIVING THIS CAR FOR A COUPLE OF MONTHS NOW AND EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE VERY RANDOMLY I EXPERIENCED A LOSS OF ACCELERATION COMPLETELY. IT HAPPENS AFTER A LONG PERIOD OF DRIVING AND WHEN I'M COMING UP TO A STOP SIGN AND GOING TO ACCELERATE AGAIN AFTER DOING RESEARCH ONLINE AND TAKING IT TO MY DEALERSHIP THEY WILL NOT DO ANYTHING BECAUSE THEY CANNOT FIGURE OUT THE PROBLEM I FOUND A RECALL ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE FOR MY VEHICLE WITH MY VIN NUMBER INCLUDED IN THE RANGE OF IN NUMBERS EXPERIENCING THIS EXACT PROBLEM. I NEED HELP GETTING MY DEALERSHIP TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS BECAUSE IT IS NOT ON THEIR WEBSITE. I HAVE ALMOST BEEN REAR-ENDED MULTIPLE TIMES BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM AND I AM AFRAID FOR MY SAFETY

Component Failure Cascade Risk

Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures

HighTRANSMISSION issue detected

Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable

HighDEF issue detected

Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for MITSUBISHI Lancer — recall years marked in red
036050100201720192021202320252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 29 total NHTSA complaints filed over 9 years, with the worst year being 2021 (6 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 81/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 64/100 in 2021.

Notably, despite 29 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 2020, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial

5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate

Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs

$2,400
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$1,800
Annual Maintenance
10-yr-old vehicle avg
$0
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$30,000

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$47,614
~$794/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$12,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$20,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $47,614 (~$794/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2016 MITSUBISHI Lancer — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Inspect for def issue detected — ask for repair records
Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY has been repaired
Recall on record for: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Outlander, 2015-2016 Lancer and Outlander Sp
HIGH
Verify recall POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) has been repaired
Recall on record for: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles and 2016
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

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.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for JA32V2FW4GU009917. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
10-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINJA32V2FW4GU009917
Model Year2016
MakeMITSUBISHI
ModelLancer
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSedan/Saloon
Doors4
Drive Type4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel TypeGasoline

Engine

Displacement (L)2.4

Manufacturer

ManufacturerMITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC)
Assembly CityKURASHIKI
Assembly CountryJAPAN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)JA3
Check Digit (Char 9)4
Model Year Code (Char 10)G
Plant Code (Char 11)U
Sequence (Chars 12–17)009917

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count29

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

J
1
A
2
3
3
2
4
V
5
2
6
F
7
W
8
4
9
G
10
U
11
0
12
0
13
9
14
9
15
1
16
7
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
J
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
A
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
3
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
2V2FW
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
4
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
G
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
U
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
009917
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Japan
From VIN position 1 (J)
Model Year Character
"G" → 2016
Could also be 1986
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

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: 6/18/2026, 2:41:38 AM.