Recall 16V-458: front crossmember corrosion can let the lower arms detach (salt states)
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What causes "Recall 16V-458: front crossmember corrosion can let the lower arms detach (salt states)" on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-2005), and how is it fixed?
NHTSA says road-salt exposure can corrode the front crossmember until the lower arms detach. Fix: Dealers inspect the crossmember and either apply an anti-corrosion sealant or replace it, free.
Symptoms
Rust on the front crossmember; in the worst case a front lower control arm can come loose.
Cause
NHTSA says road-salt exposure can corrode the front crossmember until the lower arms detach. It covers cars sold or ever registered in 22 salt-belt states and DC (194,674 Mitsubishis in all).
Fix (summary)
Dealers inspect the crossmember and either apply an anti-corrosion sealant or replace it, free. The recall began January 2017 (MMNA SR-16-003). Check the VIN, and inspect any used Evo from a salt state.
Related build entries
Other CT9A (Evolution VIII) problems
- Recall 04V-138: wrong weight ratings on the certification label (2003)
- Recall 05V-335: turbocharger coolant hose may leak (2005)
- 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 16V-458: front crossmember corrosion, 2003-06 Lancer Evolution and other Mitsubishis (salt states) — NHTSA (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)2003-2006 Lancer Evolution in salt states; lower arms may detach; inspect, seal or replace.
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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