2004 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact car known for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. Engine options for the 2004 Lancer include a 2.0L SOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 120 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (Lancer Ralliart) producing 162 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Lancer’s affordability, fuel economy, and nimble handling. Common dislikes include the basic interior, road noise, and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

2.0L SOHC 4-Cylinder

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, resulting in oil consumption, burning oil smell, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

2.0L MIVEC 4-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially from 1st to 2nd.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, leaking fluid from struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per axle)
• Broken/Worn Stabilizer Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the stabilizer bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (per link)

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, intermittent operation, slow operation.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per window)

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rusting, especially on the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, treat affected areas to prevent further rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Recalls

• Front Suspension Lower Control Arm
  • Description/Symptoms: The lower control arms may corrode due to improper coating, which could lead to fracture.
  • Solution: Dealer will inspect and replace both front lower control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free
  • Recalls: 04V582000
• Fuel Tank
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to possible cracks developing in the fuel tank filler neck, fuel leakage may occur.
  • Solution: Dealer will install a fuel tank protector on all subject vehicles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free
  • Recalls: 04V499000

Summary

The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer has a few common issues, with the most frequently reported problems relating to rust, suspension components, and electrical systems. Engine issues such as valve cover gasket leaks can be relatively inexpensive to fix. Clutch failure is more of a moderate expense. Rust can be both a cosmetic and structural issue depending on severity. Suspension issues, such as worn struts and stabilizer bar links, can affect handling and ride quality, requiring prompt attention. Overall, the 2004 Lancer can be a reliable car with regular maintenance, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs.