What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

The primary ownership concern is a recall for the accessory drive belt tensioner, which can lead to belt detachment. Verify this repair has been completed.

How many recalls does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer have?

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The primary ownership concern is a recall for the accessory drive belt tensioner, which can lead to belt detachment. Verify this repair has been completed. While consumer complaints are absent, a high TSB count (48) indicates other potential issues that may require dealer attention. Fuel economy is adequate for its class, achieving 20 MPG combined, but premium fuel is required. All-wheel drive is available, enhancing traction in various conditions, paired with an automatic transmission. Safety scores are strong, with 4-star ratings in frontal, side, and rollover tests. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer.

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The primary ownership concern is a recall for the accessory drive belt tensioner, which can lead to belt detachment. Verify this repair has been completed.
While consumer complaints are absent, a high TSB count (48) indicates other potential issues that may require dealer attention.
Fuel economy is adequate for its class, achieving 20 MPG combined, but premium fuel is required.
All-wheel drive is available, enhancing traction in various conditions, paired with an automatic transmission.

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Overview

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer presents itself as a practical, all-wheel-drive option with a focus on sporty styling. While it achieves a respectable 20 MPG combined, its "Average" reliability verdict, driven by a critical engine recall, warrants careful consideration. The high TSB count also suggests potential for other, less severe issues. Safety ratings are solid across the board, with 4 stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.

Critical Failure Risk

The drive belt automatic tensioner flange can crack, leading to accessory drive belt detachment. This failure can cause loss of power steering, alternator function, and potentially engine overheating.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking an affordable all-wheel-drive sedan with a sporty aesthetic.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership with minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Transmission: Automatic (AM6)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 20

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Most Common Issues

1. Drive Belt Tensioner Failure

Most reported

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

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

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

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Drive Belt Tensioner (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, transmission is Automatic (AM6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 Lancer require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

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

What body style is the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.