One problem related to engine failure has been reported for the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer based on all problems reported for the 2003 Lancer.
I took the car in for regular service. I let them know it was making an odd rattle type noise. I was told it was nothing to be concerned with. A couple of weeks later the engine failed. It was in the shop for two weeks. The car had less than 5000 miles on it at the time. They rebuilt the engine.