2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems

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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.

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback

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Common 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems

Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here is a list of common problems with the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback 2013 based on complaints from owners:

  • Automatic Gearbox Problems: The automatic gearboxes in the Mitsubishi Lancer are known to have issues with changing gears, leading to hesitant gear changes or slipping. In severe cases, a replacement gearbox may be necessary due to these sealed units experiencing difficulties in gear shifting.
  • Brake Failure: Some owners have experienced brakes failing to engage when the brake pedal is pressed. This problem is more common in older models and is often caused by a defective brake booster vacuum check valve. Replacing the faulty valve is a straightforward process that can restore proper brake function.
  • Overheating and Battery Drain: Another reported issue involves the engine overheating, rapid battery charge loss, and harder steering. This could be due to a drive belt made of the wrong material, leading to overheating and potential steering difficulties. Replacing the drive belt can resolve these issues and prevent further damage to the vehicle.
  • Steering Pulling to One Side: Owners have noted issues with the steering pulling to one side while driving straight. This problem is often attributed to misalignments in the complex suspension system of the Lancer. Replacing worn tires and performing wheel alignment can rectify this issue, ensuring proper steering functionality.

These common problems with the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback 2013 highlight various issues that owners have faced, ranging from engine-related issues to gearbox and brake malfunctions. Addressing these problems promptly through proper maintenance and timely replacements can help ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback engine

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 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:

What are common faults with Mitsubishi?

17 Mitsubishi Common Problems They Don't Want Us To Know

  • Transmission Issues.
  • AC Failure.
  • DPF Issues. Looking for a Hassle-Free Mitsubishi Repair?
  • Unexpected Breakdowns.
  • Bad Oil Filter.
  • Underbody Rust.
  • Brakes Squealing and Grinding.
  • Slipping & Grinding Clutch – Manuel Cars Only.

How many miles does a 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer last?

How long do most Mitsubishi Lancers last? The mitsubishi lancer is a durable vehicle that is designed to last almost 200,000 miles.

2013 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:

  • Unknown or other problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback.

2022-03-18

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-17
  • VIN: JA32X2HU9DU
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Sunroof assembly detached cables broke while driving . The sunroof could have case an accident with the right vibration and wind intake while stuck open and couldn't shut. We took ot to mitsubishi dealer in Augusta maine the next morning since the incident happened at 840pm on thursday 3/17/22 in Woolwich We were hopping for servicing to see if it could be reattached and cables fixes jad the dealer disable the moonroof and closed the sunroof. We have an 08 lancer that had the recall and fixed the year prior now our 2013 actually has it happen and currently had no recall . The dealer as of Friday approximately at 340 told us the whole assembly has to be replaced. Way to expensive for use to replace at the moment we were quoted $1740
2020-09-01

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
  • VIN: JA32X2HUXDU
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: VEHICLE HESITATES DURING ACCELERATION, CAR IS EQUIPPED WITH A CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION, HESITATION IS EXTREMELY SEVERE AT MUCH LOWER SPEEDS, OFTEN THE CAR WILL LUNGE FORWARD AT A SEVERE RATE BECAUSE THE ACCELERATOR WILL BE ALMOST TO THE FLOOR IN AN ATTEMPT TO OVERCOME THE HESITATION, VEHICLE DOES THIS EVERY TIME, IT ISN'T AN ISOLATED INCIDENT AND I'VE ALREADY HAD A MECHANIC EXPRESS CONCERN ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION "SHIFTING VERY FUNNY" DURING A TRANSMISSION FLUID EXCHANGE DONE A FEW WEEKS PRIOR. IT DOESN'T MATTER IF THE CAR IS ON THE HIGHWAY OR IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA, THIS ISSUE EXISTS.
2018-05-21

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-05-19
  • VIN: JA32V2FW8DU
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: 3RD TIME MY SERPENTINE BELT SLIPS OFF WHILE DRIVING LOSE POWER TO EVERYTHING, POWER STEERING BATTERY,EVERYTHING STOPS WORKING.

Negative 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback car reviews

  1. Josiah Rau 2025-09-08

    This car is better suited for long highway drives with very smooth roads. It handles high speeds well and the engine runs smoothly even at 90 mph. However, it may not be the best choice for city driving due to poor gas economy and difficulty parking in tight spaces. Additionally, the ride can be quite bumpy on city streets, making it less comfortable. It's worth noting that during my test drive, the road was very smooth, so I was unaware of these issues until after purchasing. Overall, this car is a great choice for those who prioritize long highway drives over city driving.

  2. Wayne Quigley 2024-11-05

    The car looks great, but it bounces all over the road and it's difficult to keep it going straight. I'm taking it to the dealer to see if they can help.

  3. Crawford Heathcote 2024-07-29

    The ride quality could be improved as it feels uncomfortable on bumpy roads and the road noise is noticeable. Additionally, the rear view is obstructed by the low hatchback and headrests, which can make parking and backing up difficult. The stability control could also be improved. However, the car has good fuel economy and the dashboard, while made of plastic, is functional. Overall, there is room for improvement but the car has some positive features as well.

Positive 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback car reviews

  1. Maxine Bode 2025-09-17

    Congratulations on your new 2010 Lancer Sportback! It sounds like you made an excellent choice. The car handles like a dream and the 18

  2. Dallas Powlowski 2025-09-11

    The sportback has been a fantastic vehicle and tool that I can use every day and have a bit of fun while doing so. The engine is powerful, and the lower gears pull pretty hard, making it really quick. However, I do wish that the 4th and 5th gear ratios weren't so close. Additionally, it would have been great if this was available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

  3. Dejon Homenick 2025-08-25

    I was looking at a compact car and found the Lancer. It's great! The ride is good and the steering feel is great as well. It has everything I want, from leather to heated seats. Honestly, I can say that Mitsubishi has very good reliability. Please don't hesitate to buy this. It's a true underdog in its class.

  4. Ervin Schowalter 2025-04-22

    I really love this car! The styling and handling are fantastic for the price, and the value of the GTS model is unbeatable. I test drove a few cars before settling on this one, but none of them matched the fun and sporty feel for the money.

  5. Jensen Predovic 2025-01-12

    I use my Mitsubishi Lancer SB/GTS for driving to work and chores. I also have a 2009 Audi TT 2.0/Quattro that I drive when I'm not going to work. I've noticed that the Lancer has many of the same features as the Audi, such as auto headlights and wipers, heated leather seats, power windows, ABS/ATC/ASC, 4 wheel disc brakes, anti-theft system, 18

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback problems:

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2013-mitsubishi-lancer/problems

Top 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems · The automatic transmission may fail prematurely. 57 people have reported this · Hard or no start condition due to worn ...

How reliable are mitsubishi lancers? Any years that I should avoid ...
How reliable are mitsubishi lancers? Any years that I should avoid ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/mitsubishi/comments/rtzs46/how_reliable_are_mitsubishi_lancers_any_years/

Jan 2, 2022 ... I have been driving my 2009 Lancer for the past 13 years, almost 200k miles. I've still never had any major issues, just regular maintenance.

How common are ralli art problems, mainly transmission? - ClubCJ ...
How common are ralli art problems, mainly transmission? - ClubCJ ...
http://www.clubcj.net/viewtopic.php?t=19230

Unfortunately servicing mechatronics units has not worked and only new units seem to properly fix problems. 2011 lancer ralliart sportback

Mitsubishi Lancer 2010-2014 Automatic reviews? : r/CarsAustralia
Mitsubishi Lancer 2010-2014 Automatic reviews? : r/CarsAustralia
https://www.reddit.com/r/CarsAustralia/comments/xxymud/mitsubishi_lancer_20102014_automatic_reviews/

Oct 7, 2022 ... Im looking at a cj 2013 my13 lancer Done roughly same amount as kms as yurs Just worried bout any common problems they have. Upvote 2

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/mitsubishi/lancer/2013/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...

Other years of Mitsubishi Lancer sportback

mitsubishi lancer sportback 2004 photo
Lancer sportback 2004
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mitsubishi lancer sportback 2010 photo
Lancer sportback 2010
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mitsubishi lancer sportback 2013 photo
Lancer sportback 2013
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16

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2013 Mitsubishi Lancer sportback photo