2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution recalls and problems
The 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution has 2 safety recalls and 98 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mitsubishi dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution recalls
Recall 16V-458: Suspension
Problem: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2002-2007 Lancer, 2004 Lancer Wagon, 2003-2006 Lancer Evolution, 2003-2006 Outlander and 2007-2013 Outlander V-6 vehicles originally sold in, or ever registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In the affected vehicles, the front lower control arms may detach due to the front cross member corroding from salt water exposure such as from road salt use.
Risk: A detached front control arm can result in the loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front cross members. Depending on the level of existing corrosion, either a sealing/anti-corrosion agent will be applied or the front cross member will be replaced with a new one that has a sealing/anti-corrosion agent applied to it. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began January 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-16-003.
Recall 04V-138: Equipment
Problem: On certain passenger vehicles sold in the united states and puerto rico, the gross vehicle weight rating (Gvwr) and gross axle weight rating (Gawr) as stated on the certification label are in error.
Risk: Overloading can damage your vehicle, adversely affect vehicle performance, including handling and braking, cause tire failure, and result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the label. The recall began on may 31, 2004. Owners should contact mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820.
2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 70 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 11 | |
| Structure | 9 | |
| Electrical System | 9 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 3 | |
| Visibility | 3 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 2 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Interior Lighting | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 44
- Power Train › Manual Transmission — 11
- Power Train › Transfer Case (4-Wheel Drive) — 8
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 8
- Structure › Body — 6
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly › Pedal/Hand Lever(Motorcycle) — 3
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly › Bell Housing — 2
- Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 12,195 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years
Compare all Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution years · All Mitsubishi models
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: 16V-458 (suspension), 04V-138 (equipment). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution?
Owners report power train problems most often (70 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (11). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 12,195 miles.
Are Mitsubishi recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mitsubishi dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.