Is the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer reliable?

It can be reliable with routine maintenance, especially on well-kept examples, but pay close attention to CVT service history and overall wear items like brakes and suspension.

What are the most common 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer problems?

Frequently reported issues include CVT shudder/hesitation, premature brake wear or rotor pulsation, suspension clunks from worn links or bushings, and occasional A/C performance problems.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2016 Lancer?

Costs are typically moderate for a compact sedan, but CVT fluid service and catching suspension or brake wear early can prevent bigger bills later.

What are the best years of Mitsubishi Lancer to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later tenth-generation cars with documented service records; the best choice is usually a well-maintained example with proof of CVT service (if equipped) and clean inspection results.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Verify maintenance records (especially CVT fluid changes), test for transmission shudder, inspect brakes for pulsation, listen for suspension noise over bumps, and confirm the A/C blows consistently cold. For a deeper look at trims, full specifications, and the complete maintenance schedule, get a complete owner’s guide for the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer before you buy.

HomeVehicles

Vehicles Compare Blog Get Report

Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A utilitarian sedan that provides excellent value if you can manage its known CVT vulnerabilities and basic refinement.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer

Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:starter assembly:relay.
Outscores the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?

The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is a polarizing choice, offering robust engine options and available AWD at a budget price point. While its core mechanicals are generally solid, the notorious CVT transmission often proves to be a significant liability, demanding diligent maintenance or a complete avoidance to prevent expensive failures. This is a vehicle you can get decent service from, but only if you acknowledge and mitigate its specific weak points.

Biggest Strengths

Naturally aspirated MIVEC engines are robust and long-lasting.
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is a unique offering in its class.
Relatively simple design means many repairs are straightforward and parts are affordable.

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)major

Rust and Corrosionmoderate

Electrical Systemminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Outlander, 2015-2016 Lancer and Outlander Sport, and 2015 Lancer Evolution vehicles. These vehicles may have defective relays that can result in an engine stall, reduced engine power or the engine overheating.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles and 2016 Outlander and Lancer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a constant velocity transmission (CVT) that, in certain driving conditions, may cause a delay in the vehicle accelerating.

What breaks on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Mitsubishi Lancer by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mitsubishi Lancer. Click any year for its full report.

All Mitsubishi Lancer years ranked →Mitsubishi Lancer years to avoid →Mitsubishi Lancer common problems →

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer

Parts and accessories matched to your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report