Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Recalls

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has 16 recalls spanning the 2003–2015 production run, with the most serious recent issue being a fuel tank coating defect on 2014–2015 models where the tank can rust through and leak, raising the risk of a fire near any ignition source.

The final production years carry several additional concerns. On 2014 models, a misrouted parking brake cable can abrade the fuel tank coating, leading to the same rust-and-leak fire risk. Also on 2014 models, the power steering pressure tube can rub against a crossmember brace, wear through, and leak fluid, making the steering noticeably heavier and harder to control. The 2015 model year has a starter relay that can fail and cause the engine to stall, lose power, or overheat while driving.

The middle of the production run has a cluster of issues worth knowing. The 2009–2010 model years have a sunroof glass that can detach from its assembly while driving and become a hazard for following traffic. On 2010–2011 models, the blower motor can fail and reduce windshield defrost performance, cutting visibility in cold or humid conditions. The 2010 model year also has an electrical issue where unstable voltage can cause the headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers to cut out intermittently. The clutch master cylinder on 2008–2013 models can fail, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears and potentially causing unintended vehicle movement or stalling. The 2008 model year separately has a fuel return pipe that can develop stress cracks and leak fuel, and a 2009 turbocharged variant shares a similar fuel delivery stress-crack issue. A defective turbocharger coolant hose on 2005 models can leak coolant onto a hot exhaust manifold and start a fire.

Going back to the earliest years, 2006–2007 models are part of the broader Takata airbag recall, where the passenger-side airbag inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin. On 2003–2006 models, the front lower control arm can detach, causing an immediate loss of steering and directional control.