Two problems related to transfer case have been reported for the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer based on all problems reported for the 2010 Lancer.
Transfer case in this car omits a loud whining noise when driving forward. Noise increases in volume the faster the car is going. This whine is due to the wearing of the gears because of a faulty design. When the transfer case whine happens, it has a high probability of locking up which will cause all wheels to stop spinning potentially causing a serious accident and possibly death.
Had an awd service warning light come on in the car while driving home from work in traffic. The car coded a c161e code for active center differential. It seems to come on when it is warm out above 60 degrees. The code is for the active center differential pump which is part of the all wheel drive system and basically controls how the car splits the power from the front and rear wheels through the transfer case. Found out when I went to the Mitsubishi dealership that this is only covered under the basic 36000 mile warranty and is not considered part of the powertrain, even though it is part of the awd system. I was also advised if it is the pump, which seems to be what happens with these car, it would be $2500 to fix, but since it was not covered under the warranty I would also be responsible for costs for any troubleshooting and any other parts that would need fixed or replaced as well. While researching online, since I don't have +$2500 to fix this issue I find that this is apparently a known issue with these cars that Mitsubishi refuses to take care of. I have the car kept in a garage at home and only sits outside while I'm at work as well since I read that the cold weather effects these pumps as well. I would think this would be a safety issue and could cause an accident since the awd system is not working properly.