Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Driveshafts

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant to the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. Mitsubishi’s factory service information for the CJ/CF Lancer (Front Axle/Driveshaft section) and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue list left and right front driveshaft (CV half-shaft) assemblies for the front-wheel-drive models. The Lancer Evolution X and Ralliart variants additionally use a propeller shaft to the rear differential and rear axle shafts, as covered in the Propeller Shaft and Rear Axle sections of the Evolution/Ralliart workshop manuals. So whether it’s a regular FWD Lancer or an AWD variant, driveshafts are part of the package.

On a FWD 2012 Lancer, the front driveshafts take torque from the transaxle and deliver it to the front wheels while allowing suspension travel and steering movement through constant velocity (CV) joints. On Ralliart and Evolution X models, there’s also a prop shaft linking the gearbox to the rear diff, plus rear axle shafts, sharing the workload for all-wheel traction.

Healthy driveshafts keep the Lancer smooth and predictable. Split CV boots, grease leaks, clicking on full lock, shudder under acceleration, or a vibration that follows road speed are classic signs things need attention. During routine servicing, it’s wise to:

• Inspect CV boots and clamps for cracks, tears, or sling-out grease.
• Check for play at the joints and inner tripod housings.
• Listen on test drives for clicking when turning and growls or vibrations on throttle.
• For AWD, also inspect the prop shaft centre bearing, universal/CV joints, and rear axle boots.

If a boot is just torn and the joint’s still clean, a reboot with fresh grease can be cost-effective. If there’s noise or wear, a complete shaft assembly is usually the reliable fix. Use quality parts, replace single-use hub nuts and split pins, and torque the hub nut to specification from the service manual. After refitting, road test for vibration and recheck for leaks. On AWD models, keep the prop shaft correctly aligned and balanced, and don’t overlook diff and transfer oil condition as part of driveline health.

With regular inspections at each service interval, most Lancer driveshafts last a long time in Aussie and Kiwi conditions, especially if boots are kept intact and road grime is kept at bay.

Popular questions about 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer driveshafts

Does a 2012 Lancer have driveshafts, and are FWD and AWD different?
Yes. All 2012 Lancers run front driveshafts (CV half-shafts). AWD Ralliart and Evolution X models add a propeller shaft to the rear differential and rear axle shafts. The extra hardware shares torque across all four wheels and needs its own inspection routine.

How long do the Lancer’s driveshafts and CV joints typically last?
There’s no set expiry. With intact boots and clean grease, they can run well past 150,000 km. The main killer is a torn boot that lets grime in and grease out. Catch boot damage early and they often last the life of the car, leave it clicking and it usually needs a full shaft replacement.

What noises mean the driveshafts need attention?
A rapid clicking or clacking on full lock points to outer CV wear. A shudder or vibration on acceleration can suggest inner CV wear or a balance issue. On AWD, a droning or humming may also involve the prop shaft centre bearing. Any of these are a cue for inspection before bigger bills roll in.