2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems
The Mitsubishi Lancer is an automobile produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors since 1973.
The Lancer has been marketed as the Colt Lancer, Dodge Colt, Plymouth Colt, Chrysler Valiant Lancer, Chrysler Lancer, Eagle Summit, Hindustan Lancer, Soueast Lioncel, and Mitsubishi Mirage in various countries at different times, and has been sold as the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis in Japan since 2007. It has also been sold as Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis in Taiwan with a different facelift than the Galant Fortis. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.
Between its introduction in 1973 and 2008, over six million units were sold. There have been ten generations of Lancers.
Mitsubishi ended production of the Lancer in August 2017 worldwide, with the exception of Taiwan and China. An extensive facelift was given to the car by Pininfarina's Chinese offices.
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Common 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback, several common problems have been identified:
- Steering Pulling to One Side: Owners have reported issues with the steering pulling to one side while driving straight. This problem is attributed to alignment issues, necessitating the replacement of tires and a challenging wheel alignment process.
- Brake Failure: Another common problem is brakes failing to engage when the brake pedal is pressed. This issue is often due to a defective brake booster vacuum check valve, especially in older models. Replacing the faulty valve is a straightforward fix.
- Engine Stalling and Cutting Out: Regular stalling or cutting out of the engine may be caused by a faulty MAP sensor. Replacing the MAP sensor or cleaning a clogged throttle body can resolve this issue.
- Automatic Gearbox Problems: The automatic gearboxes in the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback are known for issues with changing gears, including hesitant gear changes or slipping. In severe cases, a replacement gearbox may be necessary.
- Overheating and Battery Drain: Owners have reported issues with overheating engines, quick battery drainage, and harder steering. This could be due to a drive belt made of the wrong material, causing it to wear at an angle and slip off the pulleys. Replacing the drive belt is recommended.
- Leaking Coolant: Leaks into the car may be caused by a faulty heater core, allowing coolant to escape. This issue requires accessing and replacing the heater core, which can be a more involved repair.
- Timing Belt Replacement: The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback uses a timing belt that needs periodic replacement to prevent snapping. It is recommended to change the timing belt around every 100,000km and consider replacing the water pump at the same time for cost efficiency.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback.
Are 2004 Mitsubishi Lancers reliable?
most reliable and powerful car i have ever owned
the 2004 lancer es that i currently own with 622HP on the 4g94 engine is great. zippy little car gets me everywhere i need to go. i would recomend this car as it has a great interior.
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:
Is the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback reliable?
Overall, the Mitsubishi Lancer is a decent affordable starter car with fairly high reliability. It does have some issues for specific models listed above, but if you're looking for a used car most of these model years will be good options to consider.
What is the common problem of Mitsubishi?
1) Transmission Issues
Mitsubishi transmission issues have been a cause of concern for many owners, leading to frustrations and potentially costly repairs. Transmission slipping, harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure.
2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Visibility problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-24
- VIN: 14U043603
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL - I TOOK MY CAR IN TO HICKORY MITSUBISHI IN HICKORY, NC TO GET THE AIRBAG FIXED. I PICKED UP MY CAR IN THE AFTERNOON. IT STARTED TO GET DARK ABOUT AN HOUR LATER, SO I TURNED MY LIGHTS ON. I HAVE NO INTERIOR LIGHTS ON MY CAR. I CAN'T SEE MY ODOMETER, SHIFT COLUMN,ETC. I HAD TO TRAVEL A SIGNIFICANT DISTANCE TO GET THIS REPAIR SINCE THERE IS NO LONGER A MITSUBISHI DEALER WHERE I LIVE. NOW I HAVE TO GO ALL THE WAY BACK THERE AND SIT FOR ANOTHER 2.5 HOURS WHILE THEY TRY TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THEY DID TO MY ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. I'M NOT SURE I WANT THEM TO EVEN TOUCH MY CAR AGAIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-20
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AFTER CAR HAD BEEN RUNNING FOR SEVERAL MINUTES, THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL KNOB ON THE DASHBOARD WAS STUCK AND WAS UNABLE TO TURN FROM COLD TO WARM. WHEN TURNING THE KNOB, THE KNOB BROKE EXPOSING ELECTRICAL PANELING. THE AIR TEMPERATURE WAS NO LONGER ADJUSTABLE AND WAS WOULD ONLY BLOW COLD AIR WITH THE OUTSIDE BEING BELOW-FREEZING TEMPERATURES. THIS HAPPENED WHILE CAR WAS STATIONARY IN DRIVEWAY, BUT IF HAPPENED WHILE MOVING COULD HAVE CREATED AN UNSAFE DISTRACTION LEADING TO A DANGEROUS INCIDENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-04
- VIN: JA3AD29F94U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: ETACS FAILURE. LOSS OF ABILITY TO SIGNAL TURNS, LOSS OF WIPER FUNCTION BELOW HIGHEST SETTING, LOSS OF REAR WIPER, LOSS OF DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT, LOSS OF HIGH BEAMS, LOSS OF WIPER FLUID CONTROL. LOSS OF FUNCTION CAME ON SUDDENLY, MIS SPRING 2016 RETURNED INTERMITTENTLY OVER SUMMER, THEN FAILED COMPLETELY BEGINNING OF OCTOBER. A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT SAME ISSUE HAS BEEN RELEASED FOR MY VEHICLE TYPE OF A LATER YEAR., BUT MY CAR IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE CURRENT RECALL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-20
- VIN: JA3AD69F54U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 MITSUBISHI LANCER SPORTBACK. THE FAN CONTROL UNIT IS DEFECTIVE AND WAS FIXED ONCE AT THE DEALERSHIP OF PURCHASE HOWEVER, SINCE THAT TIME FAN HAS REPEATEDLY MALFUNCTIONED IN TERMS OF IT RUNNING DURING THE ENTIRE TIME THAT THE VEHICLE IS IN OPERATION IN ADDITION TO IT STAYING ON EVEN AFTER THE ENGINE IS TURNED OFF AND THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-20
- VIN: JA3AD29F94U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: MY HEAT AND COOLING CONTROL STICKS AND IT HARD TO TURN THE KNOB FROM COLD TO HEAT AND HEAT TO COLD. THE PIECE FINALLY BROKE 3 ON 11/12/11. THE UNIT NOW HAS TO BE CHANGED UNDER THE DASHBOARD WHICH I AM UNABLE TO DO WHILE DRIVING, WHEN MY WINDOWS ARE FOGGY I HAVE TO DRIVE WITH THEM BEEN FOGGY IF IT IS NOT IN THE RIGHT POSITION. IT APPEARS TO BE A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MITIS. SINCE I SEE MANY ISSUES WITH THIS ONLINE. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-01
- VIN: JA3AD29F74U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MITSUBISHI LANCER SPORTBACK. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 25 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN ACCELERATING ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO STOP THE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION BY APPLYING THE BRAKES ABRUPTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP THAT ADVISED THAT THE FLY-BY-WIRE WOULD NEED REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-04
- VIN: JA3AD29FX4U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: I OWN A 2004 MITSUBISHI LANCER SPORTBACK. THE HEATER AND COOLING CONTROL KNOB FOR INTERIOR HEATING AND COOLING WILL NOT CHANGE OVER FROM AIR CONDITIONING TO HEAT. IN THE AREA THAT I LIVE IT IS VERY COLD IN THE WINTER MONTHS ( 20 - 30 DEGREES). ACCORDING TO RESEARCH I HAVE DONE ON THIS ISSUE IT IS S KNOWN ISSUE AT MITSUBISHI. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD DUE TO THE HEATING SYSTEM NOT WORKING TO DEFROST MY WINDSHIELD WHEN NEEDED AND NO HEAT. IF MITSUBISHI KNOWS THIS IS AN ISSUE THEN WHY IS THERE NOT A RECALL TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. I HAVE LOCATED MANY COMPLAINTS WITH THIS AND IT IS ON NEWER MODELS AS WELL. SO NEW PRODUCTS ARE COMING OUT WITH THE SAME ISSUE. THIS NEEDS TO BE RESOLVED BEFORE MORE VEHICLES ARE PRODUCED AND THE USED ONE NEED TO BE FIXED SO THAT OWNERS DO NOT RUN INTO A HAZARDOUS CONDITION THAT COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- VIN: JA3AD29FX4U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 MITSUBISHI LANCER SPORTBACK. THE FAN CONTROL UNIT IS DEFECTIVE AND RECALLED ON OTHER VARIOUS MITSUBISHI MODELS INCLUDING OUTLANDER AND LANCER. HOWEVER, SINCE MY MODEL, THE LANCER SPORTBACK WAS NOT LISTED UNDER THE RECALL, MITSUBISHI REFUSES TO REPAIR/REPLACE IT. *TR
Negative 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback car reviews
Positive 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback car reviews
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Hi there! In my first review of the car (after just purchasing it) I mentioned my concerns about reliability. However, after driving it for 30,000 miles in just 6 months, I'm happy to report that my fears have been unfounded so far! I've only had to make one trip back to the dealer for a minor problem. The fuel mileage is decent, but the small fuel tank can be a bit of a pain. I get about 25-27 mpg in the mix of driving I do (usually about 40% city / 60% highway). The paint is a bit cheap though, and my car already has lots of swirls and scratches, even though I generally don't use automatic car washes. As was also mentioned, road noise on the highway above 65 mph in this car can be a bit obnoxious. The seats are OK, but they weren't really designed for long drives. One thing I've noticed is that it seems to run better on high octane fuel. Thanks for reading!
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This car may not be suitable for everyone, but it is a rare model that is only sold once a year. While some parts for the body and glass may be difficult to find, it is a well-built car overall.
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I recently purchased my Lancer Ralliart and I absolutely adore it! The car handles better than any other car I have driven. I love the unique look of the car and the sound of the muffler when I take off from a red light. The smooth and quiet ride I get when I take my Lancer out on the highway is amazing. The 6 speaker stereo system sounds fantastic and there is so much room inside, sometimes I feel like I am driving an SUV or pickup truck. I would highly recommend this car to anyone who enjoys going to the beach, fishing, playing sports, camping, or simply likes to drive a quality car. Mitsubishi did an excellent job with this car, it's a real shame they had to take it off the line. I hope it's brought back soon!
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You made a great choice purchasing your vehicle back in August 2004! It's impressive how well it has held up in extreme temperatures ranging from -40 to plus 40 degrees. The build quality is top-notch and it's great to hear that you've had a positive experience with the dealer's service. Although you experienced a minor issue with the rear bushings and fan door rotary switch, it's fantastic that they were quickly replaced under warranty. The vehicle's winter and summer handling is excellent, although it seems that the Goodyear RSA's don't quite measure up to the Brigestones. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I bought a Ralliart around 10 months ago and had a great experience with the staff at Vancouver Mitsubishi. Unlike other dealerships such as Honda and Toyota, they were not aggressively pushy and allowed the car to sell itself. The Ralliart is an exceptional car for the money, with enough room for 4 six-footers and my 2 mid-sized dogs, as well as great performance and sound. Well done Mitsubishi!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems:
2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
Top 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems · Sticky Temperature Knob · The automatic transmission may fail prematurely · Engine Overheating Due to Failed Cooling Fan ...
Common Lancer Problems? - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi ...
May 12, 2006 ... Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Sportback - Common Lancer Problems? - How you guys doin? Now my best friend just bought an 02 lancer.
Q&A: 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 4G94 Engine - Common Problems ...
Aug 11, 2018 ... I have a 2004 Mitsubishi CH Lancer with 2.0 4g94 engine. It has become very sluggish under load, going up small - Answered by a verified ...
Is Mitsubishi Lancer ~2004 (sedan) a reliable first car ? Which parts ...
Jan 14, 2022 ... Never any problems no complaints. We regret selling. Its kinda a gas guzzler for its class tho.
General Reliability of a used Ralliart - EvolutionM - Mitsubishi ...
Jul 22, 2015 ... 09+ Lancer Ralliart General - General Reliability of a used Ralliart - Hi folks! I come in peace... promise. :beer: I've been an avid member ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Lancer sportback
Are you having problems with your 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback?
Reggie Torp 2024-05-23
I traded in my '01 Focus ZX3 for this car, which was a leftover '04 that the dealer was selling for $4,000 under sticker. I consider it one of the best bargains I've ever gotten. Although the gas mileage could be better and some interior pieces, such as the A/C controls, feel cheap, I'm still glad I chose this car over a Focus wagon. It's quite rare to spot another Sportback since there are only about 3,000 of these cars in the US. However, I do have concerns about the long-term reliability and durability of Mitsubishis, as they seem to be hit or miss in that department.
General Hartmann 2024-04-28
I'm glad to hear that you're happy with your purchase! It sounds like you made a great choice. The car offers more interior space than your previous Mazda Protege5, and it's easy to park with a tight turning radius. The stock stereo sounds good, and the car feels safer than your previous one. It's great to hear that you're getting 20mpg city/25mpg highway. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Fausto Schuster 2024-03-26
I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to share my experience with the car I own. Although I have stopped using it for business (as mentioned in my previous reviews), I have started using it for commuting. I am happy to report that the car is still holding up very well and has been one of the best cars I've ever owned mechanically. There are still no squeaks or rattles, and the engine uses no oil between changes. The storage space is excellent for a small wagon, and the overall performance of the car is impressive. However, I must admit that the fuel mileage is not as good as I had hoped, especially since I began all-city driving. I'm now lucky to average 18-19 mpg around town, which is a bit disappointing for a small, 4 cylinder wagon. Nonetheless, I'm fairly conservative driving it 90% of the time, although I do like to have fun now and then.
Mitchell Feest 2024-02-29
We recently purchased another Mitsubishi after being very satisfied with our 2000 Galant. Unfortunately, the new car has had some issues, breaking down twice with my two children in the car. Although it was a stressful experience, I was grateful that the tow and repairs were covered. However, I did have to pay $600 for some necessary tune-up fees, as recommended by the dealership. Just a few months later, the car broke down again due to a faulty crank sensor and accelerator sensor, as well as a leaky shock and a mid rear restraint that never worked properly. I hope that Mitsubishi can improve their quality control in the future.