2002 Mitsubishi Lancer

Introduction:

The 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact sedan that offers a balance of performance and affordability. It is available with a range of engine and transmission options, including a 2.0L inline-4 engine with 120 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L inline-4 engine with 140 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Despite its positive attributes, the 2002 Lancer has been met with some common issues that affect various components of the vehicle.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Valve Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Valve springs can break, leading to decreased engine performance, misfires, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace affected valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing excessive noise, poor engine performance, and potential engine damage if the chain slips or breaks.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shift Fork Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shift forks can wear, causing difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, or the inability to engage specific gears.
  • Solution: Replace worn shift forks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter issues can lead to shuddering or slippage during gear changes, increased transmission fluid temperature, and potential transmission failure.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mounts Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Strut mounts can deteriorate over time, causing excessive noise, poor handling, and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator problems can result in insufficient electrical power supply, dimming lights, and battery discharge.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs may leak, causing water damage to the interior and electrical components.
  • Solution: Seal or repair the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may malfunction, causing inaccurate readings or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer offers a solid balance of performance and affordability, it is not without its fair share of issues. These issues range in severity from minor inconveniences to potentially significant mechanical failures. Costs to repair these issues can be substantial, particularly for major components like the transmission or engine. Buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider the associated repair costs when making a purchase decision.