2016-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Grille: A Guide to Facelift Variants and Replacement

Understanding the 2016-2017 Lancer Facelift Grilles

For the 2016 model year, Mitsubishi gave the Lancer a significant front-end refresh. This means grilles from 2015 and older models will not fit. It's also important to note that these parts are not compatible with the high-performance Lancer Evolution (Evo) models, which have a different front bumper design.

The front end features two main grille components and an optional trim piece:

• Upper Grille Assembly: This is the main grille located between the headlights. On most trims, it features a matte-black mesh insert surrounded by a chrome molding. The Mitsubishi emblem (sold separately) mounts in the center. A less common all-black version was available on the 2017 Limited Edition (LE) trim and is a direct swap.
• Lower Bumper Grille: This is a textured black plastic insert that fits into the large central opening at the bottom of the front bumper cover.
• Lower Chrome Garnish: Some models have an additional chrome trim strip that accents the lower bumper area. This is a separate part from the lower grille itself.

Symptoms of a Damaged Grille

Failure of a grille is almost always due to physical damage rather than wear and tear. Look for these common signs:

• Cracks or Holes: The most obvious sign of failure is visible cracking or missing sections, usually from an impact with road debris or a minor collision.
• Broken Mounting Tabs: The grilles are secured to the bumper cover with a series of plastic tabs and clips. If these are broken, the grille will be loose, vibrate, or may not stay in place. This is the most important area to inspect on a used part.
• Peeling or Pitted Finish: The chrome molding on the upper grille can become pitted from rock chips or peel over time due to weather exposure.

Buying a Used 2016-2017 Lancer Grille

A used OEM grille is often the best value, offering perfect fitment compared to some aftermarket alternatives. Here’s what to check before you buy:

• Inspect All Mounting Points: This is the most critical step. Carefully examine the back of the grille. Ensure every single plastic tab, clip receiver, and screw hole is intact and free of stress marks or cracks. A grille with even one broken tab may not sit flush against the bumper.
• Check for Hairline Cracks: Look at the grille under good lighting from all angles. Small, hard-to-see cracks can spread over time with vibration and temperature changes, eventually leading to a piece breaking off.
• Verify the Variant: Confirm you are buying the correct piece. Is it the upper or lower grille? Does the upper grille have the chrome or black trim that matches your vehicle? Remember, the 2017 LE model had a factory black upper grille surround.
• Assess the Cosmetic Condition: For the upper grille, check the chrome for deep pitting, peeling, or scratches. For the lower grille, check that the textured black plastic isn't faded or discolored.
• Ask About the Emblem: The Mitsubishi emblem is typically not included with a replacement grille. Confirm with the seller if it's part of the sale. If not, you will need to carefully transfer your old one or purchase a new one.

Replacement Difficulty and Procedure

Replacing the grille on a 2016-2017 Lancer is a moderately difficult job for a DIYer because the entire front bumper cover must be removed to access the grille mounting points.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
• Tools Needed: 10mm socket/wrench, Phillips screwdriver, panel clip removal tool (or flathead screwdriver), drill, and a rivet gun (for some upper grille brackets).

Simplified Replacement Steps:

1. Remove Fasteners: Remove all plastic clips and 10mm bolts securing the top of the bumper under the hood (beneath the radiator cover), in both front wheel wells, and along the bottom edge where it meets the splash shield.
2. Access Hidden Bolts: There are two hidden 10mm bolts located behind the lower grille opening that attach the bumper to the reinforcement bar. These must be removed.
3. Remove Bumper Cover: Carefully unsnap the bumper from the retaining brackets under the headlights on each side and pull it forward. If you have fog lights, disconnect the wiring harness before fully removing the bumper.
4. Swap the Grille(s): With the bumper cover placed on a soft surface to avoid scratches, release the plastic tabs and remove the screws holding the old grille(s) in place. Note that some top brackets are secured with rivets that must be drilled out and replaced.
5. Installation: Install the new grille onto the bumper cover, ensuring all clips snap securely. Then, reinstall the bumper cover by reversing the removal steps.

Cost Comparison for 2016-2017 Lancer Grilles

Prices can vary by component (upper vs. lower) and finish (chrome vs. black). Labor for a professional installation typically costs between $120 and $200, depending on shop rates.

Related Recalls and Service Bulletins

While there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the grille itself, several important safety recalls exist for the 2016-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer that owners should be aware of. All recall work is performed free of charge by authorized dealers.

• Recall SR-17-005 / NHTSA 17V-609: Affects certain 2015-2017 models. Defective electrical relays can fail, leading to engine stalling, reduced power, or overheating, increasing the risk of a crash.
• Recall SR-16-006 / NHTSA 16V-568: Affects 2016 Lancer models with a CVT transmission. A software issue can cause a delay in acceleration, increasing crash risk. Dealers will reprogram the CVT control unit.
• Transport Canada Recall 2018588: On some vehicles, water can corrode the front wiper link ball joint, potentially causing the wipers to become inoperative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)