2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Engine Problems
- Complaints
- 2about this part
- Share
- 1%of 199 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 2 complaints about the engine of the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer, 1% of the 199 complaints for this model year.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Ok ever since the gasket went bad and replaced the gasket on the Lancer the catalytic converter has been giving me issues not just gas but issues sounds and pings in the engine please let me know what's the issue with this vehicle I know there is some type of recall on this exact style of vehicle awhile back thanks. After 45 MPH or so jolts and rumbles???”
NHTSA complaint #11191525, filed 2019-03“2 years ago I brought a new catalytic converter for my car from de dealership. That cost me 496.76$ few months ago the check engine turn in and when I check I have the code p0421. That is the code for the catalytic converter again. I couldn't believe it. I when to Mitsubishi 2 days ago and they told me that they couldn't believe it because I'm the first client that comes back for the same part. One of the employees check my car and he said that my car is burning oil. He told me that I have to change the valve lifter. Do I really need to do that then buy a new catalytic converter?”
NHTSA complaint #11258370, filed 2019-09Engine: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 3 | 10% |
| 2015 | 4 | 17% |
| 2014 | 1 | 6% |
| 2013 | 2 | 40% |
| 2012 | 5 | 26% |
| 2011 | 8 | 24% |
| 2010 | 13 | 25% |
| 2009 | 22 | 22% |
| 2008 | 13 | 14% |
| 2005 | 1 | 4% |
| 2004 | 1 | 1% |
| 2003 | 2 | 1% |
| 2002 | 3 | 2% |
Other parts of the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
76 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
51 complaintsOther or unknown
17 complaintsEquipment
13 complaintsBody and structure
13 complaintsElectrical system
12 complaintsSuspension
10 complaintsAir bags
8 complaintsVehicle speed control
7 complaintsBrakes
6 complaintsSteering
6 complaintsEngine cooling
5 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology