CARFIX

Mitsubishi Lancer 4G36 Sedan (1977-1978) (1977–1978)

The MITSUBISHI LANCER Base is more than a car—it's a testament to a reliable and practical lifestyle that has left a lasting impression on New Zealand roads. This guide is designed to equip Lancer owners with essential information and proactive maintenance tips, ensuring their vehicle remains a dependable partner for years to come.

Parts for the Mitsubishi Lancer 4G36 Sedan (1977-1978)

Known issues

Like any vehicle of its age, the MITSUBISHI LANCER Base can experience certain common issues:
• Rust: Rust is a potential concern, particularly in lower body panels and sills. Regular washing and rust prevention measures can help mitigate this.
• Carburetor Issues: Carburetor problems can arise, leading to engine performance issues. Regular tuning and maintenance can help prevent or address these problems.
• Rear Suspension Bushings: Wear in the rear suspension bushings can affect handling and ride comfort. Inspect these regularly and replace them as needed.

Generally, these issues tend to appear around the 100,000-150,000km mark. With moderate DIY skills and the right tools, addressing many of these issues can be manageable.

WOF tips

When taking your MITSUBISHI LANCER Base for its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of the following common watch points:
• Rust around the front strut towers: The WOF inspector will pay close attention to this area for rust, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.
• Brake line corrosion: Corrosion in the brake lines is a serious safety concern and a common WOF failure point. Ensure your brake lines are in good condition.

About the Mitsubishi Lancer 4G36 Sedan (1977-1978)

Owning a MITSUBISHI LANCER Base in New Zealand involves understanding its unique maintenance needs to keep it running at its best. Regular servicing fondly known among enthusiasts is key to sustaining the vehicle's longevity. Here are a few vital areas to focus on:
• Brakes: Keep an eye on your brake pads and rotors. Regular inspections can identify wear early, preventing costly repairs. Listen for unusual braking noises, as they can indicate a need for replacement.
• Filters: Adhere to the recommended service intervals for air, oil, and fuel filters ensuring optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Regular changes can go a long way.
• Suspension: Inspect your shocks and struts for wear. This is crucial for comfort and safety, especially on New Zealand’s diverse roads.

As you drive around the 100,000-150,000km mark, particular systems are likely to need attention. For example, the cooling system requires inspection to avoid overheating issues. Look for components like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator around the 150,000km interval. You can find what you need in our Cooling category.

Additionally, issues with rust, carburetor performance, and rear suspension bushings might arise; these are manageable with regular maintenance and part replacements found in our Braking and Filtration categories.

Questions owners ask

What are some common rust areas I should inspect on my 1977-1978 MITSUBISHI LANCER in New Zealand?
Rust is a common issue for older MITSUBISHI LANCER models. Pay close attention to the lower body panels, sills, and especially around the front strut towers. Regular washing and rust prevention treatments are recommended to mitigate rust.
My MITSUBISHI LANCER's engine is running rough. Could it be the carburetor, and how can I fix it?
Yes, carburetor issues are a known problem for the MITSUBISHI LANCER 1977-1978, leading to rough engine performance. Regular tuning and maintenance of the carburetor can help. If problems persist, consider a rebuild or replacement. Consult a mechanic if you're not comfortable working on carburetors yourself.
Where can I get brake pads for my 1977-1978 MITSUBISHI LANCER in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a range of parts for your MITSUBISHI LANCER, including brake pads. You can find them in our [Braking category](/shop/braking). We have 106 SKUs available for this model.
What should I watch out for during a WOF inspection on my MITSUBISHI LANCER?
During a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, the inspector will pay close attention to rust around the front strut towers and corrosion in the brake lines. Make sure these areas are in good condition to avoid failing the WOF.
How often should I replace the filters on my 1977-1978 MITSUBISHI LANCER to keep it running smoothly?
For optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency, adhere to the recommended 10,000km service intervals for air, oil, and fuel filters. Regular filter changes can significantly improve your LANCER's reliability.
My MITSUBISHI LANCER has a 'clunking' sound from the rear suspension. What could be the problem?
A 'clunking' sound from the rear suspension could indicate wear in the rear suspension bushings. Inspect these bushings regularly, especially around the 100,000-150,000km mark, and replace them as needed to maintain handling and ride comfort.
At what mileage should I start paying close attention to the cooling system on my 1977-1978 MITSUBISHI LANCER?
Around the 100,000-150,000km mark, it's wise to inspect the cooling system components, including the water pump, thermostat, and radiator, to prevent overheating issues. You can find replacement parts in our [Cooling category](/shop/cooling).