REDLINE ALLEYMitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII to IX buying guide
2001 to 2007. An Evo VII to IX suits a driver who wants the sharpest 4G63 Evo and will budget for AYC and drivetrain servicing.
Big jobs
- AYC pump. With all three ACD mode lights on, the AYC pump is not making enough pressure. The pump sits in the left rear corner of the car and leaks fluid. A squawk on turns can be wear particles in the clutch plates.
- Rear chassis legs. Rear chassis legs need to be solid; putting them right costs a lot.
- Head gaskets and cooling. Age is bringing head gasket and cooling issues, and remapped or high boost engines can damage head gaskets and pistons.
- Clutch, flywheel and 6 speed 4th gear. Launching wears the clutch badly, and the 6 speed can develop 4th gear problems on tuned, hard driven cars.
Workshop jobs
- Boot lid and water traps. Corrosion is reported under the boot lid where the spoiler bolts pass through and on the lower seam. Water collects in the spare wheel well.
- Water leaks and heater matrix. Splash guard faults let water into the passenger footwell, and the heater matrix can leak.
Small jobs
- Front strut top mounts. Dried out front strut top mounts knock on turning.
Questions for the seller
- When were the cambelt and balance shaft belt last done?
- Has the AYC pump been rebuilt or serviced?
- Has it been remapped, and what boost does it run?
- Has the clutch and flywheel been replaced?
- Has the car had rust repairs underneath?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.