2012 Mitsubishi Lancer recalls and problems

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer has 1 safety recall and 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mitsubishi dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

3 / 0

Injuries / deaths

1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer recalls

Recall 18V-069: Engine and Engine Cooling

Reported Jan 26, 2018 · 141,053 vehicles affected · Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Problem: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Lancer, 2008-2012 Outlander, 2010-2012 Lancer Sportback, and 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with either a 4B11 or 4B12 engine. The drive belt automatic tensioner flange may crack, allowing the accessory drive belt to detach.

Risk: If the drive belt detaches, the battery will discharge and the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the belt tensioner with one that has an improved shape, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 27, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-001.

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Power Train	6
Engine	5
Fuel/Propulsion System	2
Steering	2
Vehicle Speed Control	2
Visibility/Wiper	2
Air Bags	1
Engine and Engine Cooling	1
Electrical System	1
Unknown or Other	1
Suspension	1
Structure	1

Most reported parts

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor — 1
Structure › Frame and Members — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 55,000 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 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Power Train · reported Feb 1, 2024

The front subframe(cross member) blew out, due to excessive corrosion. Causing the control arm to dismount as well as separation of the CV axle from the transmission, while traveling down the road losing complete steer of the vehicle. Luckily I was coming to a stop sign and not traveling on the highway. My vehicle was last inspected in April of 2023 with no warning signs of there being an issue. I've recently done some research and gathered information regarding models from 08-10 Mitsubishi lancers having the exact same issue. I contacted my dealer about the issue and they stated there are no…

Structure · at 65,000 miles · reported Mar 17, 2023

The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for routine maintenance, and he was informed that the sub frame was rusted. The contact was informed that there was a huge hole in the sub frame. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.

Engine · reported Sep 8, 2021

I own a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer and I have been experiencing issues with the engine. The check engine light comes on constantly then disappears for about 2 weeks and then comes back soon after. This has been a ongoing thing since i got the car a few months ago. Also, my battery light will come on (with noise and notice) then quickly turn off and not come back on. This happens on and off also. I did some research and I believe it is a belt issue.

Engine · reported Jun 28, 2021

Approximately May, 2020, prior to getting the vehicle inspected, code P0420 indicated a faulty catalytic converters. At this time, the vehicle had an estimated 170,000 miles on it so I replaced the catalytic converter, not thinking much of it. The weâre not further issues for about a year until June, 2021, when, once again, the computer started reading a P0420 code. Having only 30,000 - 40,000 miles, on it, and seeing no leaks in the exhaust or anything else that should cause a catalytic converter to go bad prematurely, there is clearly something else causing this issue.

Engine · reported Jun 28, 2021

NHTSA safety report 06/2021 â while driving approximately 45-50 mph, the ABS warning light and traction control light suddenly came on the display so I reduced speed and had planned to proceed to the next service station which was approximately 1.5 miles away. However, when I was approximately 1/2 mile from the station the engine stalled, the vehicle slightly jerked, and the the engine died. At this point, I shifted into neutral and cruised a couple hundred feet to a safe pull-off point. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the battery was completely dead and would not hold a charge when jumped.…

Other Mitsubishi Lancer years

2017 2016 2015 2014 201320122011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002

Compare all Mitsubishi Lancer years · All Mitsubishi models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer: 18V-069 (engine and engine cooling). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Owners report power train problems most often (6 reports), followed by engine (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 55,000 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.