This page covers 1 recall, 19 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2012 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 6 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The most consistent pattern in 2012 Lancer complaints centers on structural corrosion and engine-related issues. Multiple owners report severe rusting of the front subframe, in some cases describing complete structural failure that led to control arm separation and loss of steering while driving. Engine complaints are the next most common, with owners describing intermittent check engine lights that cycle on and off over weeks, unexpected stalling at speed accompanied by warning lights illuminating on the dash, and recurring catalytic converter fault codes that return even after the converter has been replaced. A smaller cluster of powertrain complaints rounds out the picture. The subframe corrosion reports are particularly notable because several owners say there were no visible warning signs before failure, with the problem only discovered during unrelated maintenance visits.
19
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
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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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 4 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
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 →
