2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. Newest first.
Mitsubishi 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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the drive belt detaches, the battery will discharge and the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the belt tensioner with one that has an improved shape, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 27, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-001.
Owner complaints
19 complaints3 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Power train · Steering · Wheels
The front subframe(cross member) blew out, due to excessive corrosion. Causing the control arm to dismount as well as separation of the CV axle from the transmission, while traveling down the road losing complete steer of the vehicle. Luckily I was coming to a stop sign and not traveling on the…
The front subframe(cross member) blew out, due to excessive corrosion. Causing the control arm to dismount as well as separation of the CV axle from the transmission, while traveling down the road losing complete steer of the vehicle. Luckily I was coming to a stop sign and not traveling on the highway. My vehicle was last inspected in April of 2023 with no warning signs of there being an issue. I've recently done some research and gathered information regarding models from 08-10 Mitsubishi lancers having the exact same issue. I contacted my dealer about the issue and they stated there are no current recalls on my year vehicle. Although they also started that the part number on my subframe is the same part number that failed on the 09-10 models. There should be a recall on 2012 Mitsubishi lancer subframe(front cross member) I hope this issue is resolved! I was fortunate to not have been injured! My vehicle has not currently been inspected after the accident because I had it towed back to my house after the accident because I was unsure what to do about the situation. The vehicle is available to be towed to be inspected if need be. A police officer did pass me and checked to make sure I was alright while I was stranded in the middle of the road while waiting for a tow truck.
- Structure › Frame and members
The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for routine maintenance, and he was informed that the sub frame was rusted. The contact was informed that there was a huge hole in the sub frame. The local dealer was not contacted.…
The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for routine maintenance, and he was informed that the sub frame was rusted. The contact was informed that there was a huge hole in the sub frame. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
- Engine
I own a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer and I have been experiencing issues with the engine. The check engine light comes on constantly then disappears for about 2 weeks and then comes back soon after. This has been a ongoing thing since i got the car a few months ago. Also, my battery light will come on…
I own a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer and I have been experiencing issues with the engine. The check engine light comes on constantly then disappears for about 2 weeks and then comes back soon after. This has been a ongoing thing since i got the car a few months ago. Also, my battery light will come on (with noise and notice) then quickly turn off and not come back on. This happens on and off also. I did some research and I believe it is a belt issue.
- Engine
NHTSA safety report 06/2021 — while driving approximately 45-50 mph, the ABS warning light and traction control light suddenly came on the display so I reduced speed and had planned to proceed to the next service station which was approximately 1.5 miles away. However, when I was approximately 1/2…
NHTSA safety report 06/2021 — while driving approximately 45-50 mph, the ABS warning light and traction control light suddenly came on the display so I reduced speed and had planned to proceed to the next service station which was approximately 1.5 miles away. However, when I was approximately 1/2 mile from the station the engine stalled, the vehicle slightly jerked, and the the engine died. At this point, I shifted into neutral and cruised a couple hundred feet to a safe pull-off point. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the battery was completely dead and would not hold a charge when jumped. This prompted me to check the alternator where I noticed the loose belt and broken tensioner which I had repaired at my own expense the following day.
- Engine
Approximately May, 2020, prior to getting the vehicle inspected, code P0420 indicated a faulty catalytic converters. At this time, the vehicle had an estimated 170,000 miles on it so I replaced the catalytic converter, not thinking much of it. The we’re not further issues for about a year until…
Approximately May, 2020, prior to getting the vehicle inspected, code P0420 indicated a faulty catalytic converters. At this time, the vehicle had an estimated 170,000 miles on it so I replaced the catalytic converter, not thinking much of it. The we’re not further issues for about a year until June, 2021, when, once again, the computer started reading a P0420 code. Having only 30,000 - 40,000 miles, on it, and seeing no leaks in the exhaust or anything else that should cause a catalytic converter to go bad prematurely, there is clearly something else causing this issue.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, the traction control warning light illuminated before the vehicle made a sharp right turn and became difficult to steer. The vehicle was taken to a nearby independent mechanic where it was…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, the traction control warning light illuminated before the vehicle made a sharp right turn and became difficult to steer. The vehicle was taken to a nearby independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the subframe was fractured due to excessive corrosion. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 123,000.
- Electrical system · Power train · Unknown or other
The ayc/acd pump failure
- Power train
While driving on the highway I went to accelerate to keep up with my traffic and my car was slow to acceleration. While still driving I went to get off the highway, took an exit and after stopping at stop sign while my foot was on the gas to go the car didn't respond to go but then jerked and…
While driving on the highway I went to accelerate to keep up with my traffic and my car was slow to acceleration. While still driving I went to get off the highway, took an exit and after stopping at stop sign while my foot was on the gas to go the car didn't respond to go but then jerked and accelerated very slowly. There's was a recall on the cvt transmissions for lancers but years 14-16 for this same issue but because my car doesn't fall into that recall my dealership told me there was nothing I could do. I've been driving the vehicle and this issues IS only getting worse to the point where after driving about 60mph causes an transmission overheating alert within 10-15 mins on the highway and along with slow acceleration while driving on the highway and also stopping at stop signs the car does not accelerate right away. *tr
- Power train
Sst transmission will shift out of gear while driving like it in neutral. Then when you pull over only way to get it shifting gears IS to turn car off wait 10 sec and turn back on . Then drives normal again. Been driving like this for two years car has 60000 miles
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Emission control › Catalytic convertor
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. While driving approximately 30-40 mph, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, there was a hesitation before the vehicle responded. The vehicle did not stall. Additionally, there was a rattling sound underneath the vehicle in close proximity to…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. While driving approximately 30-40 mph, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, there was a hesitation before the vehicle responded. The vehicle did not stall. Additionally, there was a rattling sound underneath the vehicle in close proximity to the engine. The vehicle was taken to expressway mitsubishi (located at 5511 e indiana st, evansville, in 47715, (866)437-9750) where it was diagnosed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,839.
- Visibility/wiper
Window wiper will fail in middle swipe. When turned off and back on, it may start again however it sometimes gets stuck in the middle of the wiping motion. Outlander sport from year 2011-2016 had a current recall for wiper linkage corrosion (784902762095). The mitsubishi outlander sport model and the lancer model share many common parts.
- Power train · Vehicle speed control
El carro cuando va subiendo cuesta largas no accelera SE queda sin fuerza y dice que baje la velocidad si el solo lo baja y no permite acceleral y el motor tiene un ruido queno ES normal ni lo hacia antes
- Visibility/wiper
The wiper motor will fail randomly, the blade will just stop moving. When the wiper IS turned off and then back on, it will start working again but then fail again. This occurs when the car IS stationary or moving. There IS a recent recall for the 2011-2015 mitsubishi outlander sport model (recall…
The wiper motor will fail randomly, the blade will just stop moving. When the wiper IS turned off and then back on, it will start working again but then fail again. This occurs when the car IS stationary or moving. There IS a recent recall for the 2011-2015 mitsubishi outlander sport model (recall number 16v792000) with "internal corrosion of the windshield wiper motor and the possible failure of the motor." which has the same wiper components as the lancer model.
- Air bags
Another driver ran a stop sign, I hit their vechile head on. My airbags did not deploy.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train
Received vehicle at 10KM, after 2 oil changes, at 16000km miliege dropped from 700km on a tank of gas to 300km tank of gas. At 24000km heavy transmission and engine noises occurred. Gears slipping out while accelerating causing rpms to shoot up to 6000-7000 while vehicle not moving. Timing belt and…
Received vehicle at 10KM, after 2 oil changes, at 16000km miliege dropped from 700km on a tank of gas to 300km tank of gas. At 24000km heavy transmission and engine noises occurred. Gears slipping out while accelerating causing rpms to shoot up to 6000-7000 while vehicle not moving. Timing belt and pulleys not working properly causing to much engine noise. Metal grinding and whistling sound coming from under carriage of vehicle. Rear differential and cv joint problem. Reported problem to dealership and techincians each time I go in. Their response IS its just tire noise and your vehicle IS running smoothly each time. Now at 68,000 km, rear differential IS gone, engine barely holding up, suspension on driver side IS IS lower than passenger side. Wheel bearing noises present. 4X4 awc system isn't working. Vehicle IS dragging and IS at quarter efficiency. On time with service and oil change, keep bringing up same complaints and reported back that its just tire noise. all 4 tires changes, brakes changed and rotors. Now that things are breaking down. Dealership at bank street mitsubishi denies doing any negligence over the course of 4 years and saying our techs wouldn't have missed those problems. Vehicle taken to 6 local mechanics and all reporting same problem, taken to other mitsubishi dealerships and reported negligence on technicians and mechanics from bank street mitsubishi that these issues should have been done in the past since they are defects. Called mitsubishi canada. Manager there says our techs are one of the best at that location. Now they want to void warranty due to their mistakes since parts need to be replaced. Service manager doesn't want high invoice bills. While repairing parts, techs damaging others. And not reporting it. Making costumers pay for techs mistakes. Issue still on going. Manager and techs avoiding accountability for their actions.
- Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. While driving approximately 30 mph, the vehicle accelerated independently when the contact removed her foot from the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to a mechanic who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 24,000.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 mph and making a turn, a squeaking noise emitted from the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer six times for the same malfunction. The technician was unable to locate or duplicate the problem. The manufacturer was notified of the defect. The approximate failure mileage was 4,000.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that when the accelerator was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate and stalled with no warnings. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the mechanic stated that the central computer needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that when the accelerator was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate and stalled with no warnings. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the mechanic stated that the central computer needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 100. The approximate current mileage was 28,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the vehicle suddenly ran out of gasoline fuel. The contact was unaware of the low fuel in the vehicle due to the fuel gauge reading three quarters of a tank full. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 mitsubishi lancer. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the vehicle suddenly ran out of gasoline fuel. The contact was unaware of the low fuel in the vehicle due to the fuel gauge reading three quarters of a tank full. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer for a diagnostic test, which confirmed that the fuel sensor was defective. The dealer replaced the fuel sensor but the repair did not remedy the problem. The contact stated the fuel sensor was replaced twice. None of the repairs remedied the defective fuel gauge failure. The contact did not call the manufacturer. the failure mileage was 24,830.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11006081This Technical Service Bulletin instructs the dealer to update the Hands Free Module software to improve the Bluetooth connection when certain devices are connected to WiFi.
- 11003536Service Manual Revision - This Technical Service Bulletin provides corrections to the description of special tools used to install the oil seal within the Automatic Transaxle sections of the applicable Service Manuals.
- 10240446This Technical Service Bulletin provides service manual corrections and additional information for the transaxle assembly removal and installation of the roll stopper bracket.
- 10240443This is a Dealer Letter sent to dealers informing that Mitsubishi Technical Training has launched the 3rd quarterly technician quiz for 2023.
- 10235609This Technical Service Bulletin provides instructions and material safety data sheets for removal of rap-film adhesive residue.
- 10235608This Technical Service Bulletin reviews the regulations that require a label showing the reduction in load carrying capacity be affixed to vehicles when the total net weight of accessories is more than 1.5 percent of the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or 100 lbs.
- 10235606This is a Dealer Letter sent to dealers informing that Mitsubishi Technical Training has launched the 2nd quarterly technician quiz for 2023.
- 10233997This Technical Service Bulletin contains technical information and troubleshooting for the accessory Remote Engine Start system for affected vehicles.
- 10233994This is a Technical Information Notice informing dealers and parts managers about possible causes after a customer complains that the engine will not start while using the remote start system.
- 10231410This TSB provides revisions to the Removal and Installation procedures for the rocker cover due to changes in the quantity of mounting bolts for vehicles equipped with 4B1 series engine. (Service Manual Revision)
- 10211530This Technical Service Bulletin was sent to dealers to explain the difference between normal dew condensation, which is a natural phenomenon, and water penetration caused by improper sealing or a defective/broken part.
- 10191961This Technical Information Notice provides additional instructions to dealers when replacing the Valve Cover Gasket due to a customer concern of oil leaking.
- 10176674This Technical Information Notice revises TIN-20-00-007 informing dealers TK Services has confirmed that pickup service has resumed for dealerships and customer facilities.
- 10172709This TSB updates the Engine section of the affected Service Manuals, to revise the accessory drive belt and tensioner repair and maintenance procedures.
- 10172523This TSB supercedes TSB-09-42A-015, issued October, 2009, to update affected vehicles, add Outlander Sport and add FAST Key case part numbers. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) integrated key case and FAST Key Transmitter case repair kits are now available. If the plastic parts of the key are broken or missing, but the key functions properly, use the appropriate service parts kit instead of replacing the entire key assembly. When replacing only the key case, it is not necessary to program immobilizer, RKE and OSS functions. For integrated RKE keys, once the electronic components are transferred to the new case, the key can be cut to the vehicle's key code.
- 10170853Caution statements regarding the disposal of certain SRS components have been incorrect in the service manuals of affected vehicles. This TSB provides updated caution statements.
- 10170852This Technical Service Bulletin updates the door adjustment procedure in the Body Section of the applicable service manuals.
- 10170851Caution statements regarding the disposal of certain components using coin-type lithium batteries have been incorrect in the service manuals of affected vehicles. This TSB provides updated caution statements.
- 10170760This TSB clarifies the stop light switch installation and adjustment procedure in the affected service manuals.
- 10170107This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170106This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170104This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170103This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170102This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170101This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170100This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170099This is an index of Tech Talk newsletter articles released in 2012.
- 10170097This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170096This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170087This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170086This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170074This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170071This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170070This TSB contains troubleshooting steps for diagnosis of various customer complaints relating to the audio system speakers in Mitsubishi vehicles equipped with original equipment audio components.
- 10169006This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10163703This is a Technical Service Bulletin sent to dealers. This bulletin supersedes TSB-18-00-003, issued April, 2018, to add updated information for Carrying Capacity Reduced Label.
- 10163699This is a Technical Service Bulletin sent to dealers. This Bulletin updates the Intake and Exhaust section of the affected Service Manuals, to correct the exhaust manifold and turbocharger assembly removal and installation procedure.
- 10159667This is a Technical Service Bulletin sent to dealers. The bulletin instructs dealers to confirm a list of specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) if vehicle experiences the following symptoms in cold weather: the check engine light illuminating with a limited vehicle speed (failsafe mode), or the engine does not restart after driving a short distance and stopping the engine for a few minutes. Once symptoms and DTCs are confirmed, dealers should replace the following relays with anti- freezing types: ETV, A/T (CVT), injector, and starter. This bulletin supersedes TSB-18-13-003, issued December, 2018, to add Eclipse Cross, applicable Canadian models, and countermeasure dates.
- 10159665This is a Technical Bulletin sent to dealers. This bulletin provides dealers with a basic description of the hands-free systems used in Mitsubishi built vehicles. The bulletin covers components and operation, system layouts showing the differences in Japan built and U.S. built vehicles, diagnostic flow charts, a list of commonly used acronyms and terms, and part numbers. The bulletin also provides a comprehensive Hands-free/FUSE Information Sheet to guide the service writer in getting complete and accurate details from the customer. With this information, dealer personnel can answer questions and conduct an efficient diagnosis to resolve customer concerns as quickly as possible.
- 10159663This is a Technical Service Bulletin sent to dealers. This bulletin updates the Rear Suspension section of the affected Service Manuals, to delete the requirement for an installation direction of the coil spring end of the shock absorber assembly.
Every Mitsubishi Lancer model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.