This page covers 2 recalls, 34 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer.
20–28 mpg combined
8.4–11.8 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 5 tested variants for this model year.
For the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer, the complaint picture is fairly spread out across systems, with no single issue dominating by a wide margin. Engine and powertrain complaints together draw the most attention, though the reported narratives lean toward structural and electrical concerns rather than classic drivetrain failures. Owners report front crossmember corrosion as a recurring structural issue, with multiple reports describing severe rust causing the crossmember to deteriorate, sometimes discovered during routine service. On the electrical side, owners describe headlights cutting out randomly while driving, and at least one report mentions a complete loss of electric power steering after a warning light appeared. A handful of owners also report HVAC systems stopping airflow entirely, leaving the defroster and climate controls non-functional.
34
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer has 2 recalls, the more serious being a cracked drive belt tensioner flange that can allow the accessory belt to detach, causing the battery to discharge and the engine to stall while driving.
The second recall involves the cabin blower motor, which can fail and reduce the windshield defroster's ability to clear the glass, cutting down on the driver's forward visibility.
At a glance
What can fail
The drive belt tensioner flange may crack, which can cause the accessory drive belt to come loose and detach.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the belt tensioner with an improved design at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The blower motor that circulates air through the cabin heating and cooling system may fail and stop working.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the blower motor at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
