2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
- Outscores the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: body & chassis corrosion (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer?
The 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer is a surprisingly robust compact car when properly maintained, offering a no-frills, dependable driving experience. While it can suffer from age-related issues common to vehicles of its vintage, its mechanical simplicity makes repairs generally straightforward and affordable. Owners willing to address potential rust and keep up with routine maintenance will find it a resilient and budget-friendly choice for daily transport.
Biggest Strengths
- Mechanically simple and robust drivetrain
- Affordable parts and straightforward repairs
- Generally resilient 2.0L 4-cylinder engine
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain 2004-2006 Lancer and Lancer Evolution vehicles and 2004 Lancer Sportback vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2004-2006 Mitsubishi Lancer vehicles that previously received a like-for-like passenger side frontal air bag inflator under recall 15V321 as interim remedy. Also recalled are 2004-2006 Lancer vehicles located in Guam or Saipan that previously received or never received a new inflator under 15V321 or 17V569. These passenger side frontal air bag inflators may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to explode in the event of an air bag deployment.
What breaks on the 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Mitsubishi Lancer by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mitsubishi Lancer. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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