2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Lancer earns a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with similar scores for frontal, side, and rollover impacts.
- Fuel economy is respectable, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined from its 2.4-liter engine.
- Average reliability is indicated, with a higher-than-average number of TSBs suggesting potential early-life issues.
- A key recall addressed the starter relay, which could cause engine stall or overheating; verify this repair is complete.
2016 Mitsubishi Lancer
Critical Failure Risk
The starter relay can fail, leading to intermittent or complete loss of engine power, stalling, or overheating. This issue was subject to a recall.
Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$300 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a safe and reasonably fuel-efficient compact car.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal unscheduled maintenance.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Manual 5-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. Starter Relay Failure
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. CVT Software Anomalies
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Starter Relay (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $300).
What engine is in the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.