Models · Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV, V and VI buying guide
The second-shape Lancer Evolutions, built from 1996 to 2001 with a 2.0 turbo four, five-speed manual and four-wheel drive. The Evo IV introduced Active Yaw Control, the V brought a wider track and Brembo brakes, and the VI was the first Evo sold through official UK channels. UK buying guides focus on the Evo VI, so the checks below are written for it.
The versions
- 2.0 turbo four-cylinder, officially 276bhp (280hp quoted for the Evo IV), with a cambelt and balance shaft belt
- Five-speed manual, four-wheel drive; Active Yaw Control (AYC) rear differential on GSR and Tommi Mäkinen Edition cars
- Stripped RS and RSX versions without AYC or ABS, and the partly equipped RS2
- Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition from March 2000, with a quicker-spooling titanium turbine, lowered ride height and quicker steering; UK Ralliart cars carry a numbered badge on the centre console
What to check on a Evo IV to VI
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The AYC rear differential (GSR and Tommi Mäkinen)
What to look for: On a GSR or Tommi Mäkinen Edition, check the AYC warning light comes on briefly with the ignition and then goes out. On the drive, listen for groaning or squawking from the rear in tight, slow corners.
Why it matters: On an Evo VI, groaning or squawking points to an AYC fault. A new pump sometimes cures it; otherwise the unit itself needs replacing. Some sellers have removed the warning bulb to hide a fault, so make sure it lights. The AYC fluid should be changed about every 9,000 miles. RS and RSX cars have no AYC.
Rust in the chassis legs, sills and arches
What to look for: Look at the front and rear chassis legs from underneath, along the sills and wheel arches, around the fuel filler, at the boot lid, the suspension mounts and the inner wings. Ask whether an imported car was undersealed when it arrived.
Why it matters: Rust can now be a problem on the Evo VI. Japanese-market cars had no factory underseal, so one undersealed on arrival in the UK and kept dry is the one to look for.
Smoke and tappet noise
What to look for: Start the engine from cold and watch the exhaust. A little white vapour is fine; grey or blue smoke isn't. A tappety noise from cold is normal if it quietens as the engine warms. Check the history for oil changes about every 4,500 miles and the cambelt and balance shaft belt every 40,000 to 45,000 miles.
Why it matters: On an Evo VI, grey or blue smoke can point to worn rings, bore wear or a failing turbo. A tick that continues when warm suggests worn hydraulic lash adjusters, which are a straightforward replacement. A rusty wastegate can cause a drop in boost.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox whine and synchros
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Evo IV to VI
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, VIII and IX · Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mitsubishi.