2004 Mitsubishi Lancer — 2.4L

The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sits at a notable dip in the complaint trend that peaked in 2003 with 311 complaints and 7 recalls, falling to 80 complaints and 7 recalls in 2004 before climbing again to 91 complaints in 2008. The recall count remains flat at seven for both 2003 and 2004, while investigations rise to two in 2004 from one the previous year, suggesting emerging concerns not fully captured by recalls. The top complaint areas for 2004—Air Bags (17), Visibility (16), and Vehicle Speed Control (5)—indicate a shift toward safety and operational issues rather than mechanical failures, and the 7 crash complaints and 3 fire complaints are modest compared to earlier years. Compared to the broader generation, 2004’s numbers represent a moderate level of reported problems, lower than the 2003 peak but higher than the 2005 decline to 24 complaints. Consequently, a 2004 Lancer may be a reasonable purchase if you prioritize a model with fewer safety‑related complaints than earlier years, though you should verify the specific air‑bag and visibility issues reported for that year.