IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2008–2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2008–2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

AYC Pump Corrosion and Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

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.

Estimated cost: £600–£1,500Affects: 2008–2016Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Scan for AYC-related faults
  • ✓Inspect the pump area for corrosion if possible
  • ✓Ask whether the pump has been rebuilt or relocated

SST Twin-Clutch Judder or Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

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

Most affected: SST twin-clutch transmission

Estimated cost: £1,500–£4,000Affects: 2008–2016Often appears around: 40,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓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

Rear Subframe and Underbody Corrosion

ModerateBodywork & Rust

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

Estimated cost: £400–£2,000Affects: 2008–2016Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓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

Buying Tips for the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

  • ✓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.

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Other Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Year Periods

2008–2016

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