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Are you having problems with your Mitsubishi Lancer? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Mitsubishi Lancer issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Mitsubishi Lancer in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.
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It will be one of the following: ES, LS, Exceed, VR-X, or Evo. It’s unlikely that it will be a VR-X or an Evo, which are the performance models. It should have badges on it to identify it as an ES, LS, or Exceed. If not check the id plate. To find the location of the plate refer to your owner’s manual.
Typically it’s around $500.
Yes, it was fitted with an engine immobiliser from the factory.
It’s unlikely, more likely it’s a problem with the throttle body. Have it cleaned out and the idle reset if needed.
The best way to replace your keys depends on the year, but there are cheap alternatives you can read about here.
The Mazda3 and Holden Astra are both good alternative choices, but you could also consider a Toyota Corolla or Kia Rio or Cerato.
If you want a cheap and reliable small car go for something like a Hyundai i30, Kia Rio, Toyota Corolla, or Mitsubishi Lancer.
Don’t buy a Focus, they are plagued with automatic transmission troubles, don’t buy a Holden Cruze either, as they also have problems with their automatic transmission. The Lancer is fine; you could also look at a Mazda 3 or Toyota Corolla.
You say it is a slight vibration, which makes me think it’s not serious. It could just be caused by wear. I wouldn’t be concerned about it if it were my car, after all it’s not a new car.
The best times to buy are usually the end of the financial year, or at model run-out times, that's when the specials are on. The CVT and dual-clutch autos are both still unknowns in terms of long-term reliability, but either should be ok over the five years you plan to keep the car. Any of the cars you list, and the list is a long one, would be ok. It really comes down to what you like.