Models · Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, VIII and IX buying guide
The last Evos with the 4G63 2.0 turbo four, built from 2001 to 2007. The VII added an Active Centre Differential, the VIII brought a six-speed gearbox, and the IX added MIVEC variable valve timing and a larger turbo, with UK cars sold in a range of FQ power outputs.
The versions
- 2.0 turbo four-cylinder (4G63) with a cambelt and balance shaft belt; Evo IX FQ-300 rated 305hp
- Evo VII (2001): GSR and FQ-300, plus the GT-A semi-automatic without Super AYC or the Active Centre Differential
- Evo VIII (2003): six-speed manual; FQ-300 and FQ-330. VIII MR (2004): FQ-300, FQ-320, FQ-340 and the 100-car FQ-400; detuned five-speed VIII 260
- Evo IX (2005): MIVEC and a larger turbo; FQ-300, FQ-320, FQ-340 and FQ-360, with a five-speed option and a mechanical rear differential version
What to check on a Evo VII to IX
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The AYC pump and rear differential
What to look for: Check the AYC warning light comes on with the ignition and goes out after a few seconds. On an Evo IX, note whether all three centre differential lights (gravel, snow and tarmac) light together. On the drive, listen for groaning or squawking from the rear on tight turns.
Why it matters: On the IX, all three lights at once means the AYC pump, exposed in the nearside rear corner, isn't making enough pressure; it lets in water and leaks fluid, and a rebuild is the usual fix. Squawking on turns is often wear particles between the clutch plates, which a fluid change can clear. A warning light that never comes on may have been disconnected to hide a fault.
Rust underneath and around the boot
What to look for: From underneath, look at the rear chassis legs and the whole floor. Under the bonnet, check the front strut tops and the slam panel. Look at the front arches and the double-skinned rear arches, the underside of the boot lid around the spoiler bolts and its lower seam, and lift the boot floor to check the spare wheel well for water.
Why it matters: The bodies weren't galvanised, so these cars rust readily, especially imports. Rear chassis leg repairs are a substantial job. Keeping the boot and door drain holes clear helps, so a dry, clean underside is a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Clutch and gearbox
What to look for: From cold, a baulky change from first to second is normal. Once warm, any crunching or whining is the thing to note. Feel for judder as the clutch takes up, and check it doesn't slip under hard acceleration. Ask how often the car has been launched hard.
Why it matters: Repeated launches wear the clutch, which may judder before it slips; the flywheel should be replaced with it as they're a balanced assembly, and the job means removing the gearbox and transfer box. The six-speed gearbox can develop fourth gear problems on tuned, hard-driven cars.
Also in the full guide
- Smoke, head gasket and tappet noise
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Evo VII to IX
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 IV, V and VI · 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.