Recall 04V-138: wrong weight ratings on the certification label (2003)
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What causes "Recall 04V-138: wrong weight ratings on the certification label (2003)" on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-2005), and how is it fixed?
NHTSA says the GVWR and GAWR printed on the label were in error on 7,278 cars sold in the US and Puerto Rico; loading to wrong ratings risks overloading the car. Fix: Dealers replace the label free.
Symptoms
No driving symptom. The door-jamb certification label shows wrong gross vehicle and axle weight ratings.
Cause
NHTSA says the GVWR and GAWR printed on the label were in error on 7,278 cars sold in the US and Puerto Rico; loading to wrong ratings risks overloading the car.
Fix (summary)
Dealers replace the label free. The recall began May 31, 2004. Check the VIN on NHTSA's site.
Related build entries
Other CT9A (Evolution VIII) problems
- Recall 05V-335: turbocharger coolant hose may leak (2005)
- Recall 16V-458: front crossmember corrosion can let the lower arms detach (salt states)
- 5-speed gearbox grinds as the brass synchro rings wear
- Plastic boost bypass valve leaks with age
- The MR's 6-speed is weaker than the 5-speed under high power
More for this car
- All Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-2005) fitment answers · CT9A (Evolution VIII) common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- NHTSA recall 04V-138: 2003 Lancer Evolution certification label GVWR/GAWR error — NHTSA (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)2003 Lancer Evolution; 7,278 units; label replacement from May 31, 2004.
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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