Mitsubishi Lancer
Compact 1.8L diesel for the ASX and Outlander II. Economical but prone to DPF problems with short-trip use and oil dilution from DPF regeneration. EGR fouling is a recurring topic.
Economical but sluggish
The 1.8 DI-D saves money at the pump but feels sluggish. Still the most economical choice for high-mileage drivers.
Engine Weaknesses 5
During DPF regeneration diesel fuel enters the engine oil. Oil level rises instead of dropping. Diluted oil loses its lubricating properties. Early model years particularly affected; Mitsubishi revised the software later.
Symptoms: Oil level rises above maximum, engine oil smells of diesel, DPF warning light, increased engine noise
Common-rail injectors clog or lose sealing at higher mileages. Return-flow rate increases, leading to starting problems and rough running.
Symptoms: Difficult cold start, rough idle, power loss, check engine light
The turbocharger loses performance through blocked oil lines or bearing wear. Oil lines clogged by DPF-related oil dilution accelerate wear further.
Symptoms: Whistling from turbo, power loss, blue smoke, oil in the charge air pipe
The EGR valve and intake manifold clog with soot deposits. Short-trip driving makes the problem worse. Cleaning or replacement every 80,000–120,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough idle, check engine light, increased fuel consumption
The dual-mass flywheel wears with short-trip and frequent stop-and-go driving. The DMF should always be replaced together with a clutch change.
Symptoms: Rumbling on start and shut-down, vibrations at idle, shuddering on pull-away
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
Several Lancer CY model years are affected by the worldwide Takata airbag recall. Defective inflators can rupture on deployment and release metal shrapnel. Free replacement at a dealer — check status without fail.
Older examples in salt-belt areas show typical through-corrosion on sills, wheel arch edges and door bottom edges. The underbody is also affected where protection is lacking.
From around 100,000–120,000 km, control arm bushings and ball joints show noticeable wear. Knocking over uneven road surfaces is the most common symptom. Steering play and pull on braking can indicate further suspension issues.
With age, failures of the starter battery, mass air flow sensor and ABS sensors become more frequent. Defective central locking motors and rear light failures are also known weak points. The cause is usually corroded connectors and contacts.
With age, A/C condensers and connecting hoses develop leaks with refrigerant loss. The heater core is also prone to blockages, reducing heating output in winter. Simply topping up the refrigerant is not a lasting fix.
Reports & Tests
456 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2007–2017). Most reported: Powertrain (133), Engine (78), Electrical (52).