CZ4A
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X import check
CZ4A is the factory model code for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, built for the Japanese market from 2007 to 2015. Every genuine car has a chassis (frame) number that starts with its code, such as CZ4A-. That number is the one thing that links its Japanese history to its UK records.
CZ4A at a glance
- Model code
- CZ4A
- Make
- Mitsubishi
- Model
- Lancer Evolution (X)
- Body
- 4-door saloon
- Built
- 2007 to 2015
- Engine
- 4B11 (1998 cc turbo petrol)
- Drivetrain
- AWD (S-AWC)
- Japanese trims
- GSR, GSR Premium, RS, Final Edition
- Chassis number format
- CZ4A-nnnnnnn
From our own model library, compiled from public sources and not yet checked against a second source. UK records sometimes drop the hyphen or the leading zeros of the serial; our check allows for that.
Reading the CZ4A chassis code
- Every Evolution X is CZ4A. The Evolution VII to IX is CT9A.
Have a chassis number? The chassis decoder reads it for you.
Is it a genuine CZ4A?
UK-market Evolution Xs were sold here with a 17-character VIN. A Japanese import has a CZ4A- frame number.
If you paste the advert into the free check, we compare its wording with the chassis code. An advert that says “Evo” on a car whose chassis code isn’t CT9A, CN9A, CP9A and CZ4A gets flagged.
Known problems to check on a CZ4A
- Twin-clutch SST gearbox: check it shifts smoothly and ask for its service history
- Signs of track use: crash repairs and worn brakes
- Most have been modified: ask for a list of changes, receipts, and whether the insurer has been told
These are common issues for the model, not facts about any particular car. Ask the seller about each one.
Before you buy
- Check the S-AWC and SST warning lights stay off on a test drive
The CZ4A on a Japanese auction sheet
- The sheet names the car ランサーエボリューションX, with the gearbox: SST for the twin-clutch or 5F for the manual.
Most imports were bought at a Japanese auction, and the inspector’s sheet records the grade, mileage and every mark on the body. Ask the seller for it, then run it through our auction sheet translator to read it in English and check the chassis number and mileage against the UK record.
Recalls in Japan for the CZ4A
Japan publishes every recall with the chassis numbers it covers. Run a recall check with the car’s chassis number to see whether any apply to it.
MOT record in the UK
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (2008 to 2016)
- 18% of 2,182 first MOT tests failed in 2024 and 2025, 54% lower than the UK average for cars of the same age.
- Most common advisory: Rigid brake pipes: corroded, covered in grease or other material (8.6% of tests).
- Most common failure: Track rod end (steering linkage components): ball joint has excessive play (2.4% of tests).
Every 2.0-litre petrol Lancer of the Evo X years, which includes the Ralliart.
All Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (2008 to 2016) MOT statisticsFrom DVSA’s anonymised MOT data, licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Kilometres, miles and the first UK MOT
A CZ4A sold new in Japan has a speedometer in kilometres. When it is imported, the speedometer is either converted to miles or left in km, and the first UK MOT should record whichever the dial shows. Mistakes here are common, and they’re where mileage problems hide.
We put the Japanese auction mileage and every UK MOT reading on one timeline and check the crossing: whether the readings agree after converting, whether the km figure was written down as miles, and whether the first UK reading is lower than the car had already done in Japan. See an illustrative example.
Questions
What is the chassis code for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X?
CZ4A. A Japanese-market Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X has a frame number that starts with CZ4A, then a hyphen and a serial number. You’ll find it on the V5C and on a plate in the engine bay.
Which years was the CZ4A built?
From 2007 to 2015, with the 4B11 (1998 cc turbo petrol) engine and four-wheel drive layout.
What should I check when buying a CZ4A?
Twin-clutch SST gearbox: check it shifts smoothly and ask for its service history. Signs of track use: crash repairs and worn brakes. Most have been modified: ask for a list of changes, receipts, and whether the insurer has been told. Check the S-AWC and SST warning lights stay off on a test drive. Also check that the Japanese auction mileage lines up with the first UK MOT, because km and miles are easily mixed up.