2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution problems
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, popularly referred to as the 'Evo', is a sports sedan and rally car based on the Lancer that was manufactured by Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors from 1992 until 2016. There have been ten official versions to date, and the designation of each model is most commonly a Roman numeral. All generations use two-litre intercooled turbo inline four-cylinder engines and all-wheel drive systems.
The Lancer was originally intended only for Japanese markets, but demand on the "grey import" market led the Evolution series to be offered through Ralliart dealer networks in the United Kingdom and in various European markets from around 1998. Mitsubishi decided to export the eighth generation Evolution to the United States in 2003 after witnessing the success Subaru had in that market the previous year with the Subaru Impreza WRX.
All domestic-market versions, until the release of the Evolution IX in 2005, were limited by a gentlemen's agreement between Japanese car manufacturers to advertise no more than 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp). However, sources say Mitsubishi had already been producing cars with more power but had been underrating the official power outputs in order to comply with the agreement. Therefore, each subsequent version has unofficially evolved above the advertised power figures, with the Japanese-market Evolution IX reaching an alleged output of around 321 PS (236 kW; 317 hp). Various special versions available in other markets, particularly the UK, have official power outputs up to 446 PS (328 kW; 440 hp).
The tenth and final generation of the Lancer Evolution, the Evolution X, was launched in Japan in 2007, and overseas markets in 2008. The Evolution X was produced for almost 10 years until Mitsubishi retired the Lancer Evolution in April 2016.
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Common 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution problems
Based on the information provided in the search results, here are common problems with the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 2012 based on complaints from owners:
- Front Suspension Struts Knocking Noise: Owners have reported hearing knocking noises from the front suspension struts when turning corners. This issue indicates a need for lubrication of the front suspension struts to eliminate the noise. It is a relatively minor problem that can be resolved by lubricating the struts.
- Gearbox Output Shaft Bearings Whining Noise: A common complaint is a whining noise coming from the gearbox, which becomes louder as the speed increases, especially over 40mph. This noise is often attributed to failing gearbox output shaft bearings. To address this issue, owners need to replace the faulty output shaft bearings to eliminate the noise.
- Blocked Evaporator Drain Hole: When the climate control is turned on, some owners have reported a fishy smell, indicating a blocked evaporator drain hole. This issue can lead to unpleasant odors inside the vehicle. To resolve this, owners need to unblock the evaporator drain hole to prevent the bad smell.
- Idle Control Valve Failure: The idle control valve can fail, causing the car to idle at higher RPMs when the fan or air conditioning is turned on. Cleaning the idle control valve may resolve the issue; however, if cleaning does not work, replacing the valve is necessary to fix the problem.
- Actuator Malfunction: Owners have experienced sudden jolts or boosts after a slight power loss at high revs, which can be attributed to a failing actuator. To address this issue, replacing the actuator is required to resolve the problem.
These common problems with the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 2012 highlight various issues that owners have encountered with this vehicle. Addressing these problems promptly can help maintain the performance and reliability of the car.
What is the most common problems with Mitsubishi Lancer?
Mitsubishi Lancer Common Problems and Solutions
- Slow Fan Speed and Ventilation Loss. Problem: ...
- Steering is Pulling. Problem: ...
- Brake Failure. Problem: ...
- Engine Stalling. Problem: ...
- Check Engine Light and 'Slow Down' Warning. Problem: ...
- Oil Leak. Problem: ...
- Starting problems. Problem: ...
- Air conditioning failure. Problem:
How reliable are Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions?
Despite what you may have heard, the Evo X has a stellar reputation for reliability. The stock aluminum 4B11T engine can easily handle 400-plus horsepower with a larger-than-stock turbo and decent tune. Non-modified cars will soldier on well past 100,000 miles with only minimal maintenance–and lots of new tires.
What is the problem with the Evo 9 engine?
Mitsubishi Evo IX engine
One possible problem is noisy hydraulic tappets which can take a while to quieten down if the engine hasn't been run for a few days. Lack of frequent oil changes is the usual reason, causing blockages in the oilways and air to stay trapped in the tappets.
Which year Lancer is best?
Most Reliable Mitsubishi Lancer Years: Eighth Generation (Sold: 2002-2007)
- 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. Although the eighth-generation Lancer debuted for the 2002 model year, the early years of this version were plagued with drivetrain problems. ...
- 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer. ...
- 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. ...
- 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Lancer evolution problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Seats problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-23
- VIN: JA32W8FV1CU
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SEAT SIDE LEG BOLSTER BROKE. UPON REMOVING THE SEAT FROM THE VEHICLE IT WAS FOUND THAT METAL HAD BROKEN WHICH ALLOWED THE BOLSTER TO BREAK. SEEMS DANGEROUS TO ME CONSIDERING THE CARS CAPABILITIES AND THAT IT IS SOMETHING THAT CAN AFFECT THE DRIVER IN A TURN.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: 2012 EVO X GSR - FROM JBA MITSUBISHI (GLEN BURNIE, MD). AT 31,651 MILES - I WAS IN A FAST-FOOD DRIVE THRU LINE ORDERING BREAKFAST. THAT IS, 0MPH. ALL OF A SUDDEN, I HEAR A CHIME AND SEE MY INSTRUMENT PANEL FLASH. MY DRIVING-MODE/STATUS LIGHT (WHICH SHOWS TARMAC/SNOW/GRAVEL) HAD TURNED OFF. ANOTHER LIGHT ILLUMINATED, SAYING '4WD SERVICE REQUIRED'. MY EVO IS 100% BONE STOCK, NO MODS/TUNE. I CALL AROUND AND DO SOME RESEARCH. I CHECK MY FLUIDS, TIRES (ALL 4, BRAND NEW, PROPERLY BALANCED), ETC. A LITTLE WHILE LATER, I DISCOVER THAT IT IS MY AYC PUMP. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH EVO'S AND NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. LUCKILY, MINE WENT OUT JUST BEFORE WARRANTY. OTHERWISE, IT'D COST BETWEEN $2500-$3K TO FIX ON MY OWN DIME. I LIVE IN MD - WE GET SNOW EVERY SINGLE YEAR. APPARENTLY, THE SALT AND WEATHER CHANGES CAN CAUSE CORROSION AND DAMAGE TO THE PUMP. MITSUBISHI OFFERS A REPLACEMENT (WITH 1YR, 12K MILE WARRANTY). BUT I'VE SEEN FOLKS IN CANADA WHO BURN THRU 3-4 PUMPS A YEAR. MEANING JUST BECAUSE OF THIS 1 PART, AN EVO IS A TERRIBLE CAR TO HAVE IN COLD-WEATHER STATES. MITSUBISHI NEEDS TO RECALL THIS PART - OR OFFER TO REPAIR FREE WHENEVER THE PUMP GOES OUT. EVEN WITH PROPER PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE - I DO NOT WANT TO PAY $2500+ EVERY TIME THE PUMP GOES OUT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-01
- VIN: JA32W8FV3CU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CAR IS VERY DIFFICULT TO SHIFT. FROM STOP TO ABOUT 40 MPH, THE SHIFTING FEELS LIKE DOESN'T WANT TO GO INTO GEAR. I WAS TOLD THIS IS NORMAL. THE CAR SEEMS TO SHIFT A LOT BETTER AT HIGHER RPMS; PROBABLY DUE TO LESS OF A SYNCHRONIZATION PROBLEM. MISS SHIFTS CAUSE DELAY IN ACCELERATION. *TR
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 Lancer Evolution vehicles manufactured from December 12, 2007, through March 5, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the clutch master cylinder can fail.
- Consequence: Failure of the clutch master cylinder reduces the ability to shift the vehicle into or out of gear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected clutch master cylinders free of charge. The recall began on November 12, 2013. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's campaign number for this recall is SR-13-009.
Negative 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution car reviews
Positive 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution car reviews
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Well, I had a bit of a rough start with my car when I experienced some transmission issues at just 1143 miles. Although I still love my car, I did require a new transmission. While the grinding has improved with the new transmission, it is still present. Overall, I am happy with my car, but I do wish I had chosen a different model. I understand that some people have experienced similar issues with the transmission, and I hope that this is something that will be resolved soon.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my new EVO X. I've been driving it for the past two weeks and it has been an absolute blast! I love everything about it - from the sleek looks to the amazing handling and power. It definitely turns heads on the road! Some people may just see a Lancer, but those who truly know cars can appreciate what a great driving experience it provides. I've owned a variety of cars in the past, from BMWs to RX8s, and everything in between. I was considering a few different options before deciding on the EVO X, including the RX8 R3, 350Z, G37, MB, and BMW. But for the price and the amount of driving fun it provides, I think it's a great value. Plus, it seats five, so I can take my family out for a drive every once in a while. I haven't pushed it too hard yet due to its low mileage (I got it with only 50 miles!), but I can't wait to hit 1,000 miles. The interior is decent, although I'm not a huge fan of the cloth armrest. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase and would definitely recommend the EVO X to anyone looking for a fun and reliable car. Thanks for reading!
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Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my new car. I've already put about 1500 miles on it and it runs great! While I didn't really prioritize the interior, I absolutely love the outside look and performance. I even had the chance to drift around an 80 degree turn at 80mph and it handled like a dream! I do want to mention that this is definitely a sports car, so if you're looking for comfort, it might not be the best fit. But if you're like me and bought it for the thrill of drifting, then I highly recommend it!
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We traded in our 2005 Evo 8 GSR/SSL for this new 2012 Evo X MR in Wicked White. We purchased the car in Aug 2013 and it has been worry-free. This car truly does it all. If you're looking for the best of all worlds, the Evo X MR is the car to get. I've owned many different cars over the years, but the Evo stands out. It offers great all-weather performance and head-turning style. Some older folks may not understand what makes this car special, but if you know what an Evo is, then you know why it's special. Currently, I own several cars including the Evo X MR, Lotus Elise, Porsche Cayman S, Porsche Cayenne S, and C3 Corvette. I like them all, but the Evo is the best overall car.
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2 weeks so far & I love this car. Have owned BMW, Shinka RX8 and other performance vehicles & I think this is a great vehicle for the money. Great balance between size (seats 5, including 2 booster seats 4 kids). Love the handling, looks, and package (GSR with SSS).
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution problems:
Common Problems? | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Forum
Dec 24, 2018 ... I did a quick search on the forum but didn't find much. The specific one I am looking at right now is a 2012 Evo GSR with 100k kms (62,000 miles ...
what are the common problems for evo? - EvolutionM - Mitsubishi ...
Oct 19, 2011 ... EvolutionM - Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution Community ... Common Evolution Problems · Common ... ksevo8 is offline Mar 6, 2012. Join Date.
Common Evo 8 problems | Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Forum
Aug 30, 2013 ... Hey guys, Im planning to buy my son an evo 8 for his birthday. My sons dream car is an evo 8.he knows cars and evos in genneral but I want ...
Common problems for Evo X - EvolutionM - Mitsubishi Lancer and ...
Mar 24, 2011 ... Evo X General - Common problems for Evo X - Hello people, yup, this is the NOOB. I did some research, and found that Evo X has some painting ...
Is the Evo X reliable as a long term daily driver? | Mitsubishi Lancer ...
Aug 17, 2013 ... Those are known issues with the car - bet almost every car on the market has issues like this. There are things you will never get away from, ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Lancer evolution
Are you having problems with your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer evolution?
Kamren Upton 2024-07-12
Upon driving the car out of the dealer lot, I was blown away by the sheer power and torque of this beast. While the seats are supportive, adjusting them when reclining can be quite challenging. However, the transmission, while slightly notchy, is still superior to that of a Honda. Although the interior plastic parts are not up to par with my 06 Civic, this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance of the car. As someone who has previously owned a 2003 WRX, I can confidently say that the GSR's transmission is not a significant concern for me.
Easter Gutmann 2024-05-24
These cars are good and fun to drive, with great handling, good power, and a top-notch AWD system. While the interior is just okay and the comfort is not great, it's important to remember that this car is not meant to be a cruiser. In my opinion, the premium over the GSR's is not worth it, but if you have the budget, it's definitely a great option. If you're willing to wait, you may be able to snag a better deal in the future. Overall, it's a great car for those who prioritize performance and excitement.
Jacey O'Kon 2024-04-13
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my EVO over the past 6 months. While I've enjoyed driving it, there are a couple of things that have been bothering me. Firstly, I've noticed that the paint is quite thin and scratches easily. To avoid this, I've invested in a clear bra for the front, rocker panels, and trunk deck. It's a bit pricey at around $1000, but it's definitely worth it to protect the car. Secondly, I've found that the windshield is quite thin, which I believe is due to Mitsu's efforts to save weight. Unfortunately, I got a minor chip in mine and the windshield ended up splitting when I tried to repair it. I'm currently in the process of replacing it with a standard Lancer windshield, which is a bit thicker but also heavier. Just something to keep in mind if you're considering an EVO. Let me know if you have any questions!
Carlo Kirlin 2024-03-28
We have owned our 2008 EVO for four months now and were initially very excited about our purchase. However, after waxing the vehicle for the fourth time 1 1/2 weeks ago, my husband noticed a massive amount of paint chips above the rear tires on both sides of the car and also on the hood. After researching online, we found that many other people have experienced the same issue, and unfortunately, Mitsubishi has not been very helpful in resolving the problem. We would caution against purchasing this vehicle unless you are willing to deal with paint chipping or windshield damage with only 3000 miles on the car. Overall, we have been disappointed with the quality of this vehicle and regret our purchase.
Nicholas Schoen 2024-01-26
I upgraded from a 2008 STi to the 2010 EVO X. Although the STi had a more pleasant interior, the seats in the X are amazing. I highly recommend the SSS package, as it is well worth it. However, the overall build quality of the X is not as good as the STi, and there is a lack of space. The buttons feel cheaper and the seating position is not great, despite the amazing seats. Both cars are great options, but if you want something similar to the X, you should consider buying a 2011 STi, as the 08-2010 models don't compare. The paint quality of the X seems to be better than the Subaru, and there is less turbo lag, even though the motor is 0.5L smaller. One of the biggest differences is fuel economy, as the 5-speed is too short and gets 8mpg less than the STi did.