2011 Mitsubishi Lancer

Introduction

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact sedan offered with a choice of two engines and three transmission options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque is also available. Both engines can be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Available in ES, SE, and GTS trims, the Lancer is praised for its responsive handling, spacious interior, and affordability. However, it is criticized for its lack of power, unrefined interior, and dated technology.

Engine

2.0-liter Four-Cylinder

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil and coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Four-Cylinder

• Engine Knock
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from the engine, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the engine block
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace or repair the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, acceleration problems, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the CVT
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace the battery or alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Water or condensation inside the fog lights
  • Solution: Replace the fog lights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noise from the dashboard
  • Solution: Apply sound deadening material or tighten loose components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows do not function, windows get stuck
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer has several notable issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The cylinder head gasket failure and engine knock issues can be severe and expensive to repair. The CVT failures can also be costly. Additionally, the vehicle suffers from various other issues such as dashboard rattles, power window failures, and suspension problems. Considering these issues, the Lancer may not be the most reliable choice for buyers considering a compact sedan. Repair costs can range from minor to major, depending on the severity of the problem.