IsItAGoodCar
UK Buyer Reliability Guide3 Known Faults Documented

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Common Problems & Reliability

The final Evo is a hugely capable AWD performance saloon, but it is now a specialist enthusiast buy rather than a cheap fast Mitsubishi. The best cars have specialist histories, sensible modifications and proof that drivetrain fluids have been treated as consumables rather than lifetime fills.

6
Generation Periods
3
Known Issues
2
Critical Faults
1
Moderate Issues

Select a Model Year Period

Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.

Most Common Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Faults & Repair Costs

High Risk

AYC Pump Corrosion and Failure

Est. Cost£600–£1,500

The Active Yaw Control pump is mounted in a vulnerable position and corrodes badly on UK cars, bringing warning lights and expensive drivetrain-control faults.

Warning Signs:

AYC or ASC warning lights, Drive mode faults, Pump noise or no response from the system

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Scan for AYC-related faults
  • Inspect the pump area for corrosion if possible
  • Ask whether the pump has been rebuilt or relocated
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team
High Risk

SST Twin-Clutch Judder or Failure

Est. Cost£1,500–£4,000

SST cars are very sensitive to correct fluid and calibration; neglected boxes can judder, skip gears or fail outright with huge repair bills.

Warning Signs:

Jerky pull-away, Refusal to select gears, Transmission warning or limp mode

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Drive the car in traffic and under full load
  • Demand proof of SST fluid servicing
  • Be wary of any hesitation when engaging Drive or Reverse
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team
Moderate Risk

Rear Subframe and Underbody Corrosion

Est. Cost£400–£2,000

Even specialist-owned Evo Xs can rust underneath in the UK, particularly around the rear subframe and suspension pick-up points.

Warning Signs:

Heavy rust on rear subframe, Corrosion advisories on MOT history, Fresh underseal without photo evidence

What to Check Before Buying:
  • Inspect the rear subframe and suspension mounts
  • Read MOT history for corrosion notes
  • Check whether the car has had proper cavity wax or underbody protection applied
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team
Essential Pre-Purchase Step

Buying a used Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.

Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.

Inspection Checklist for Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Buyers

✓Manual cars are mechanically simpler; SST cars need proper Mitsubishi SST fluid history and should feel smooth, not jerky or reluctant.
✓Inspect the AYC pump area and rear underbody for corrosion because UK road salt is especially hard on these cars.
✓Be very cautious of hard-used or badly modified examples; track abuse shows up quickly in tyres, brakes, drivetrain fluids and accident repairs.