Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X: common faults & what to check
Thinking about buying a used Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (2007–2015) in New Zealand? We've documented 6 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, brakes, and electrical. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated major. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
6
Documented faults
Major
Most serious
$300–$800
Typical repair
4
Systems covered
Known Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
014B11 MIVEC Oil Control Valve Sludge Failure
MajorCommonEngine $300–$900 to fix
The CY4A Galant Fortis 4B11 2.0 MIVEC variable valve timing oil control valves clog with sludge from infrequent or low-quality oil changes, causing the MIVEC system to fail and illuminating a check engine light with MIVEC fault codes. The 4B11 requires oil changes every 5000km with the correct specification to prevent sludge accumulation in the narrow OCV passages.
Symptoms to notice
Check engine light with MIVEC or VVT-related fault codes at startup
Rough idle on cold start that improves once the engine reaches operating temperature
What to check
Connect a scanner and check for MIVEC or VVT fault codes. Rough idle on cold start that improves after warm-up indicates MIVEC solenoid sludge. Ask about oil change history — intervals beyond 7500km increase sludge risk significantly.
Where to look: 4B11 MIVEC oil control valve solenoids on each cam, top of engine
Ask the seller
“Has the 4b11 mivec oil control valve been inspected or repaired?”
02Electric Power Steering Rack Rattle
MinorCommonElectrical $600–$2,200 to fix
EPS rack develops internal rattle at low speeds over rough surfaces.
Symptoms to notice
Knocking or rattling from steering rack at low speeds
Vibration through steering wheel during slow manoeuvring
What to check
Drive over rough surfaces at low speed and listen for rattle from the steering rack area.
Where to look: Electric power steering rack assembly
Ask the seller
“Has the electric power steering rack rattle been inspected or repaired?”
SuspensionMajor
BrakesMajor
SuspensionMinor
EngineMinor
4 more documented faults on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
Checking a specific Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X?
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 6 documented faults for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and brakes. A Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X?
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We've catalogued 6 known faults for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, covering engine, suspension, and brakes. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X?
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Most single repairs on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X fall between $300–$800 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 6 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X?
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Yes. A Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.