NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 23 owner complaints for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. Most complaints involve power train (10) and engine (5). The EPA rates it 20–28 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall.
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.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“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 current recalls on my year vehicle. Although they also started that the part number on my subframe is the same part number that failed on the 09-10 models. There should be a recall on 2012 Mitsubishi lancer subframe(front cross member) I hope this issue is resolved! I was fortunate to not have been injured! My vehicle has not currently been inspected after the accident because I had it towed back to my house after the accident because I was unsure what to do about the situation. The vehicle is available to be towed to be inspected if need be. A police officer did pass me…”
“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.”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI LANCER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH AND MAKING A TURN, A SQUEAKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER SIX TIMES FOR THE SAME MALFUNCTION. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE OR DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lancer Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,300 | 317 |
| Lancer Man 5-spd, 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 24 | 33 | 28 | $2,300 | 317 |
| Lancer Sportback Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,400 | 329 |
| Lancer Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.4 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 23 | 30 | 26 | $2,450 | 342 |
| Lancer Man 5-spd, 4 cyl, 2.4 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 22 | 30 | 25 | $2,550 | 355 |
| Lancer AWD Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.4 L · All-Wheel Drive | 22 | 28 | 25 | $2,550 | 355 |
| Lancer Sportback Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.4 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 22 | 28 | 25 | $2,550 | 355 |
| Lancer Auto (AM6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 18 | 25 | 20 | $4,000 | 444 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Nov 6, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 23 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are power train (10), engine (5), steering (2). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer at 20–28 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (8 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer 4 out of 5 stars overall.