Mitsubishi Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Mitsubishi cars?

Our database covers 17 Mitsubishi models and 96 documented faults across the range. Of these, 21 are classified as dangerous and a further 52 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Mitsubishi models fail at an average rate of 23.8%, roughly in line with the 22.7% average across all manufacturers we track. Reliability varies considerably between models. The Eclipse is the strongest performer at just 11.8%, while the Canter has the highest failure rate at 30.8%.

If you are considering a used Mitsubishi, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are suspension and body & rust, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Mitsubishi reliability summary

Where Mitsubishi problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Mitsubishi's 96 known issues break down by area.

Suspension problems dominate, accounting for 24 of the 96 faults we track (25%). Issues in this area include Suspension component corrosion (Z16A) and Front suspension component wear and corrosion (GA). The most affected models are the Canter (2), the Carisma (2), the Delica (2).

Body & Rust is the next most common area, with 14 documented faults (15%). Common faults here include Subframe mounting point corrosion (Z16A) and Body structure corrosion (FB5/FB6). The most affected models are the Shogun Pinin (2), the Space Star (2), the 3000 (1).

We also track 13 brakes faults across the range (14%). Problems to watch for include Brake pipe corrosion (Z16A) and Parking brake efficiency problems (GA). The most affected models are the ASX (2), the Mirage (2), the 3000 (1).

Engine rounds out the top problem areas with 12 known issues (13%). Notable issues include Lambda sensor failure (Z16A) and Generally reliable mechanical package (GA). The most affected models are the L200 (3), the ASX (2), the 3000 (1).

Known Mitsubishi faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Mitsubishi range

The most common and severe problems found across all Mitsubishi models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Mitsubishi model

We track faults across 17 Mitsubishi models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Mitsubishi

Every used Mitsubishi deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since suspension faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 21 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Subframe mounting point corrosion (Z16A), Brake pipe corrosion (Z16A), Brake pipe corrosion (GA). Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Mitsubishi has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 23.8% average failure rate across the Mitsubishi range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Mitsubishi repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Mitsubishi repair costs between £434 and £962 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £6,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Mitsubishi repair in our database is General body structure corrosion, which can cost £4,000–£10,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.