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2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Lancer earned a strong 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
  • Zero recalls and zero consumer complaints reported to NHTSA.
  • A significant 23 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicate potential for minor, documented issues.
  • All-Wheel Drive is available, enhancing traction in adverse conditions.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer offers a competent package for the budget-conscious buyer. It boasts a strong safety rating across the board, with NHTSA awarding it 4 out of 5 stars in overall, frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an available All-Wheel Drive system, provides adequate motivation, though fuel economy is average for its class. While the absence of recalls and consumer complaints is a positive sign, a notable 23 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) indicate Mitsubishi has addressed various minor issues. This suggests a car that, while generally sound, may require attention to specific components.

Critical Failure Risk

Over time, engine mounts can degrade, leading to increased vibration and noise. This is a common wear item on many vehicles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 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
20
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a safe and reliable daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with extensive documented reliability and minimal potential for minor issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
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. Engine Mount Wear

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Fluid Degradation

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 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 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 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 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Mounts (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer, transmission is Automatic (AM6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 Lancer require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

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

What body style is the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

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

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Honda Civic and 2013 Toyota Corolla.

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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