This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2009 Mitsubishi Lancer visibility problems
severe 4 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $350 · see visibility across all vehicles →
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering visibility on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗MITSUBISHI: WOULD HEAR A RATTLE FROM ONE OF THE DOORS. THE RATTLE COULD BE CAUSED BY DOOR GLASS RETAINING BOLTS COMING LOOSE DUE TO LOW SOOR GLASS RETAINING BOLT TORQUE SPEC LIMITS. WHILE DOOR IS THE MOST LIKELY TO RATTLE, ITS POSSIBLE OTHER DOORS TO EXHIBIT THE CONDITION AS WELL. MODELS LANCER, LANCER RALLIART, LANCER EVOLUTION.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Common questions
How serious is the visibility problem on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer?
It's a meaningful issue. 4 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $350.
At what mileage does the visibility typically fail?
Based on the 4 complaints filed, visibility issues most often appear around 100,667 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $350 for visibility repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to visibility?
No active recalls currently cover visibility issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.