2017 Mitsubishi Lancer
2017 Mitsubishi Lancer
Overview
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, a compact sedan known for its sporty styling and affordable price point, generally presents a decent reliability record for its model year. While not without its quirks, many owners report a positive ownership experience, especially concerning its powertrain. The vehicle’s design, which had been in production for several years, meant that most of the kinks had been worked out. However, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for prospective buyers and current owners.
Engine
2.0L 4-Cylinder (4B11)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
2.4L 4-Cylinder (4B12)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Hesitation or Jerking
- Symptoms: Occasional hesitation during acceleration or a slight jerking sensation.
- Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush. In severe cases, transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $150 - $500 (fluid flush/update), $3000 - $5000 (replacement)
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Occasional freezing or unresponsiveness of the touchscreen infotainment system.
- Solution: Software reset or update. If persistent, head unit replacement might be required.
- Cost: $100 - $300 (software update/reset), $500 - $1500 (head unit replacement)
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin Materials and Features
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer generally offers a reliable ownership experience, particularly with its engine options, which are largely trouble-free. The manual transmission is also robust. The primary area of concern is the CVT, which can occasionally exhibit hesitation or jerking, often resolvable with maintenance or software updates, though more serious issues may necessitate costly repairs. Electrical gremlins, specifically with the infotainment system, are also noted but typically minor. Overall, the Lancer is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable, albeit aging, compact car, provided potential CVT buyers are aware of the associated risks.