2003 Evolution
2003 Evolution
I was wondering to all who have a 2003 EVO, did, or have knowledge on the matter, is this a good year to stay away from? I see myself getting a used EVO however based on condition they are somewhat difficult to find a nice one, if I found a nice 03 is it worth turning down just to have an 04 because I hear of alot of first year in the US quirks of the 2003 Evolution... some make them sound like 2003's are junk. JW
Well some people don't know how to take care or drive cars lol. It's hard to tell how many are "real" issues. I for one got 30k out of my stock clutch and I've got 50k miles on the stock tranny/transfer case. My 5th gear syncro is shot but the dealership would just laugh at me if I brought it in to them (not to mention I wouldn't let them work on the car).
If at all get a IX.. Next I would get an 05. This will save you some $$$ in the end.
There really isn't much difference in an 03/04 so take your pick. If you do go with an 03/04 I'd be checking the records to see if all TSB's were taken care of.
If at all get a IX.. Next I would get an 05. This will save you some $$$ in the end.
There really isn't much difference in an 03/04 so take your pick. If you do go with an 03/04 I'd be checking the records to see if all TSB's were taken care of.
obviously 1st year models are going to have some problems...everyone's going to base it off of their experience, so until you either take that plunge into getting an 03/04 or just getting a new 06 you'll never know...just be careful in what you pick - pay attention while your test driving one, and change all of the fluids and check out the belts when you get one...the clutch on the other hand (my clutch went out at 29k on my used 03! never tracked either! (at least by me of course 
35k stock clutch. Some caliper fade (no biggie, not just for 03), Wing is getting replaced under warrenty. No mechanical issues and if they arise Ill fix them and make them better so they will not come back.
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Evolving Member
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 214
Likes: 1
From: Tempe, AZ
I also have an 03, i have close to 40k miles, and Im still on stock clutch. I have little to no problems. The brembos are fading (because mitsu doesnt know how to change fluid), my spoiler isnt fading, the paints fine. I wash and wax alot. I get alittle grinding but nothing big. I would just go for an 05 or up to be honest. Less problems, acd, and all the other fun stuff. Youll be happier.
My 03 has 46K miles on it, still on stock clutch and pushing over 320 whp. No mechanical issues yet. I'm religious with the fluid changes, and my tranny/t-case seem to be just fine. Brembos clear coat peeled and faded, but not a big deal. Wing is fine. I did have a hid headlight go out, but it was replaced under warranty.
Which year had the TSB on radiator hoses? It wasn't the 03, was it the 04 or 05?
If you can wait for an 05, I'd say get that over an 03, but an 03 or 04 will be a toss up, just depends on price.
Which year had the TSB on radiator hoses? It wasn't the 03, was it the 04 or 05?
If you can wait for an 05, I'd say get that over an 03, but an 03 or 04 will be a toss up, just depends on price.
Bought my '03 with 12k miles on it. It was on it's second set of tires already, and the clutch and turbo was replaced under warranty before I bought it. Of course, I didn't find out until later. Still had to take it to the dealer at 13k for loud tranny. Fixed under warranty. But, I've beaten it pretty damn hard for the next 10k miles with practically no problems. Just some 2nd gear grinding. Way too much fun to care right now. No matter what the car went through with the previous owner or me.....totally worth it! Just get one already.
Evolving Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 130
Likes: 0
From: N. Reading Ma
They have been making the evo for years so im not sure if the 1st year quirks apply here.
I have an 03 with 25k no problems with anything. Stock clutch, second set of tires but thats normal, the advans only last aprox 10k. Everything works fine just be religious with your fluid changes. Find the best deal on a well maintained car and join in on all the fun were having.
I have an 03 with 25k no problems with anything. Stock clutch, second set of tires but thats normal, the advans only last aprox 10k. Everything works fine just be religious with your fluid changes. Find the best deal on a well maintained car and join in on all the fun were having.