Credov's researched list of the 4 faults the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR is known for (2005–2007), 4 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Lie beside the car with a torch and look at the rear chassis legs for flaking, bubbling or fresh thick underseal.
Why it matters: Severe rear leg rot is structural and costly to cut out and weld; UK cars are worst but NZ coastal cars and JDM cars from snowy regions also suffer. Fresh underseal can hide it. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,500-$9,000 range.
What to look for: Ask for a dated receipt for the timing and balance belts, and listen at idle for a front-cover chirp.
Why it matters: The proper job is timing belt, balance belt, hydraulic tensioner, idler and tensioner pulleys and usually the water pump, with the balance shafts phased correctly (wrong phasing gives vibration after a belt job). Many owners delete the balance shafts; that is fine if done properly but still leaves the timing belt to service. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$1,000-$2,000 range.
What to look for: Key on, engine off: the ACD/AYC lights should come on then go out, and the rear pump should run only 10-12 seconds.
Why it matters: Repair is a pump rebuild or a replacement; new parts are getting scarce. Water ingress into the footwell connectors (see the body notes) can also bring the lights on. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,000-$5,500 range.
What to look for: At a steady low speed in 2nd or 3rd gear, listen for a whine that rises with speed and changes with throttle.
Why it matters: The whine changes with road speed, not revs, and usually shows under load in the lower gears. Fix is a rebuild with new gears or a replacement unit. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,000-$4,500 range.
Got a question about a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.