Dingo's Starting Mystery: Engine Dies Instantly

I had a similar issue with my 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer (gasoline). The symptoms were exactly like yours, sometimes the car wouldn't start, and when it did, it would die seconds later. Turned out the key transponder chip wasn't communicating properly with the immobilizer system. Took it to the dealer last month since it's pretty specific to Mitsubishi's security system. They had to reprogram the key and reset the immobilizer. It wasn't a complicated fix, but definitely needed someone with the right diagnostic equipment. They also checked the key's chip to make sure it wasn't damaged. Wasn't a serious mechanical issue, more of an electronic/security system problem. Got it sorted in about half a day. The car's been starting perfectly since then. If you're having the same symptoms, I'd suggest going straight to a Mitsubishi dealer or a specialist who works with Mitsubishi security systems. Regular mechanics often don't have the right equipment for key programming.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful since it sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. Just curious, do you remember roughly how much they charged you for the reprogramming? And has everything been running smoothly since then, or have you noticed any other quirks with the security system?

Hey again! Yeah, after seeing the mechanic, everything's been working like a charm, no more lock issues or starting problems with my Lancer. The total bill came to 45€ for the key reprogramming, which honestly wasn't as bad as I expected. It's been about six weeks now, and I haven't had a single problem with the security system or starting the car. It starts up first try, every time. I'm actually really glad I went to the dealer for this one. While the fix was relatively simple (just needed to sort out the key programming), it definitely needed their special diagnostic equipment. Money well spent if you ask me, especially considering how frustrating it was when the car wouldn't start properly. If you're experiencing the same thing, I'd say go for it, the peace of mind is worth the cost. Plus, it's way better than being stranded somewhere because your car won't start!

Thanks so much for all the details! I actually went ahead and took your advice, brought it to the local Mitsubishi dealer yesterday. You were spot on about the issue! They found the same problem with the transponder chip and immobilizer system. Cost me a bit more (around 60 €) since they had to do some extra diagnostic checks, but totally worth it. Funny story though, while I was waiting in their lobby, the car actually refused to start when they tried to move it into the service bay! Talk about perfect timing to demonstrate the problem. The mechanic was really professional about it and explained everything clearly. Got it all sorted within a few hours, and now my Dingo's starting up perfectly every time. Really grateful for your help, you saved me from wasting time with general mechanics who probably wouldn't have had the right equipment. Thanks again!