Mitsubishi Lancer Relay Guide for 2002-2011 Models
Having electrical issues with your Lancer? A failing relay could be the simple, easy-to-fix culprit.
- A single bad relay can cause a no-start condition, a non-working A/C, or overheating issues.
- Symptoms vary depending on which relay fails (e.g., fuel pump, starter, A/C).
- Replacement is extremely easy and requires no tools, making it a perfect DIY task.
- For this part, a quality aftermarket relay is a reliable and budget-friendly alternative to more expensive OEM parts.
Understanding Relay Failures in Your Lancer
Relays are simple devices, but they operate in a harsh under-hood environment and can fail from heat, vibration, and simple wear and tear over many years. When a relay fails, the component it controls will either stop working completely or behave erratically. Because many relays in your Lancer are identical, a common diagnostic trick is to swap a suspect relay with a known good one (like the horn relay) to see if the problem moves to the other circuit. This can confirm the relay is bad before you buy a new one.
Symptoms of a Bad Relay
The symptoms depend entirely on which relay has failed. Here are the most common scenarios for a Lancer owner:
- Bad Fuel Pump Relay: Your engine will crank over but won't start. You might notice you don't hear the familiar 2-second buzzing sound from the rear of the car when you first turn the key. The car may also stall intermittently while driving.
- Bad Starter Relay: You turn the key and get nothing—no crank, no click. Or you may only hear a single click without the engine turning over. Sometimes the problem can be intermittent, working one day and not the next.
- Bad A/C Compressor Relay: The air conditioning will blow warm or hot air, even when set to cold. You won't hear the distinct 'click' of the A/C compressor clutch engaging when you press the A/C button. 🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting a Lancer air conditioner that isn't blowing cold.
- Bad Cooling Fan Relay: The engine may start to overheat in slow-moving traffic or while idling, as the radiator fan isn't turning on to pull air through the radiator.
Recall & TSB Information
While there were no major relay recalls specifically for the 2002-2011 Lancer, Mitsubishi did issue a recall (SR-17-005) for defective power relays on some later 2015-2016 models. Additionally, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was issued for the related Evolution X model to replace problematic fuel pump relays with an updated part. This shows that relay issues are a known problem area for the platform.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Relay
When shopping for a replacement relay, you'll see options from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and various aftermarket brands. For a simple, standardized part like a relay, a quality aftermarket replacement is a perfectly reliable and cost-effective choice. OEM parts are a guarantee of perfect fit and function, but aftermarket relays are made to the same specifications and are often produced in the same certified facilities. Given the low cost of the part and the ease of replacement, there is little risk in opting for an aftermarket relay.
| Part | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Relay | $20 - $35 |
| New Aftermarket Relay | $8 - $18 |
| Used OEM Relay | $5 - $15 |
Pro Tip: Buy a Spare
Since many of the relays in your Lancer's fuse box are interchangeable and they are inexpensive, it's a smart idea to buy an extra one. You can keep it in your glove box as a spare for easy roadside diagnosis and repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the relays located on my Lancer?
Your Lancer has two main fuse/relay boxes. The primary one is located in the engine compartment, usually on the driver's side. A second fuse box is located inside the car, typically behind a small panel or door on the driver's side of the dashboard. 🎬 Watch: Locate your Lancer's interior and engine bay relay boxes. The diagram on the inside of the fuse box cover will show you which relay controls which component.
Can I replace a relay myself?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing a relay is one of the easiest repairs you can do. It requires no special tools. You simply locate the correct relay in the fuse box, pull the old one straight out, and push the new one firmly into its place. 🎬 See this walkthrough on testing and replacing a starter relay. The entire process takes less than five minutes.
My car won't start. Is it the starter relay or the fuel pump relay?
Listen closely when you turn the key. If the engine turns over (cranks) but doesn't fire up, the fuel pump relay is a likely suspect. If you turn the key and nothing happens at all, or you just hear a single click, the starter relay is the more probable cause.
Are all the relays in the fuse box the same?
No, but many of them are. The fuse box diagram will often show several relays with the same part number or amperage rating. For example, the horn relay, A/C relay, and fuel pump relay might be identical. This allows you to swap them for testing purposes. Always replace a relay with one that has the exact same specifications.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8627A030 MR122409 8627A001 8627A024
4-Pin, 12V DC, typically rated between 20A and 40A.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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