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2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ethan Miller
2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2014 Lancer SportBack boasts a strong safety record with 4-star ratings across frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.
  • With a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG, it offers reasonable fuel efficiency for daily commuting.
  • Zero recalls and zero complaints suggest a lack of major systemic defects, but 36 TSBs point to potential minor issues.
  • The 2.4-liter engine and 6-speed automatic transmission provide adequate power for everyday driving.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack

The 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack is a front-wheel-drive, 5-door hatchback that balances practicality with a sporty aesthetic. It offers a respectable 25 MPG combined fuel economy from its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Safety is a strong suit, with an overall NHTSA rating of 4 out of 5 stars. While the absence of recalls and owner complaints is a positive sign, a notable 36 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicate potential for minor, manufacturer-acknowledged issues that buyers should investigate.

Critical Failure Risk

While not a widespread complaint, some owners of this generation Lancer have reported issues with the automatic transmission, particularly concerning smooth shifting and longevity. The AV-S6 transmission requires specific fluid and regular service.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical hatchback with good safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a performance-oriented vehicle; this Lancer prioritizes practicality.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

1. Transmission Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. HVAC System Malfunctions

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Automatic Transmission (typical at 120,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SportBack?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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