Common Mitsubishi Problems
Mitsubishi has a long history of building rugged 4x4s and innovative plug-in hybrids. While the brand has officially withdrawn from selling new cars in the UK market, their used vehicles remain popular for their durability and "workhorse" capabilities. The Outlander PHEV was a pioneer in the UK, while the L200 is a staple of the pickup market.
Common Mitsubishi trouble spots
- •L200 Head Gasket / Overheating: Series 4 models especially are prone to overheating if radiators are not maintained, leading to expensive head gasket failures.
- •Outlander PHEV Battery Degradation: While generally reliable, batteries lose capacity over time. UK models had a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty which is worth checking.
- •Shogun Rear Subframe Rust: A major MOT killer for Mk3 and Mk4 models; the subframe and its mounting points can rot through entirely.
- •L200 Chassis Corrosion: All generations of L200 require regular undersealing to prevent structural rust on the rear chassis rails.
- •Shogun Fuel Tank Delamination: On Mk3 models, the internal lining of the fuel tank can flake off, clogging the fuel pump and injectors.
- •ASX & Outlander Oil Dilution: Diesel models (2.2 DI-D) used for short trips suffer from rising oil levels due to interrupted DPF regenerations.
What to check on used Mitsubishis
- ✓For the Outlander PHEV, use the "PHEV Watchdog" app to get an accurate State of Health (SoH) reading for the battery. Be wary of sellers who have recently reset the Battery Management Unit (BMU).
- ✓On L200 pickups (especially Series 4), check the service history for coolant changes. Overheating and head gasket failure can occur if the cooling system is neglected or the radiator becomes partially blocked.
- ✓Mitsubishi 4WD systems (Super Select) are excellent but complex. Ensure the car can shift between 2H, 4H, 4HLc, and 4LLc without the dash lights flashing indefinitely; if they do, it often indicates a vacuum solenoid fault.
- ✓On Shoguns (Mk3 and Mk4), look specifically at the rear subframe and suspension mounting points. These are notorious for structural rust that can be hidden by plastic covers.
- ✓Check the fuel filler neck on older Lancers and Shoguns, as they are prone to corrosion, which can allow debris into the fuel system.
Select a Mitsubishi Model
Mitsubishi L200 (Series 6)
The final L200 sold in the UK, featuring the bold "Dynamic Shield" front end. It moved to a 2.2-litre engine to meet emissions standards.
Mitsubishi L200 (Series 5)
A tough pickup that is surprisingly agile for its size. Very popular for towing and commercial use.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GG)
The UK's best-selling plug-in hybrid for many years. It offers a practical family SUV experience with significant tax benefits for business users.
Mitsubishi Mirage
A simple, honest city car that is mechanically robust but often criticized for its unrefined driving experience and thin paint.
Mitsubishi Outlander Diesel
A practical 7-seater SUV that is often overlooked in favor of the PHEV. It is a capable tow car but suffers from common modern diesel issues.
Mitsubishi ASX
A compact crossover that competes with the Nissan Qashqai. Known for being a bit noisy but mechanically straightforward.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
The final Evo is a hugely capable AWD performance saloon, but it is now a specialist enthusiast buy rather than a cheap fast Mitsubishi. The best cars have specialist histories, sensible modifications and proof that drivetrain fluids have been treated as consumables rather than lifetime fills.
Mitsubishi Shogun Mk4
One of the last truly old-school ladder-frame 4x4s sold in the UK, and still a brilliant tow car. The 3.2 DI-D drivetrain is tough, but use history matters hugely because farm work, towing and winter salt all accelerate the Shogun’s real-world weak spots.
Mitsubishi Lancer
The standard Lancer (non-Evo) is a dependable family saloon or hatchback. While it lacks the performance of its famous sibling, it shares its reputation for mechanical robustness, though the interior quality is dated.
Mitsubishi L200 (Series 4)
The definitive Series 4 "Triton" L200. A massive success in the UK, but requires careful checking of the cooling system and chassis.
Mitsubishi Colt
A practical and reliable supermini, though the automated manual "Allshift" transmission and interior plastics are weak points.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII-IX
The "golden era" Evos are legendary performance cars. They are highly capable but require specialist maintenance and are sensitive to modifications.
Mitsubishi Shogun Mk3
The third-generation Shogun introduced monocoque construction with an integrated ladder frame. It is a legendary off-roader but now faces significant age-related rust issues in the UK.
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