Generations
Z16A — Mitsubishi 3000GT
1990–2000
3.0 V6
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi 3000 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point corrosion (Z16A)
The steel subframe mounting points in the body shell are prone to corrosion that weakens the load-bearing structure around suspension component mounting areas. This affects the structural integrity of the car's handling and safety systems. The problem worsens with age and is particularly severe on UK cars due to road salt exposure.
What happens if ignoredSubframe detachment can cause complete loss of vehicle control and poses an immediate safety risk. Repair requires professional structural welding and MOT retest. Extensive corrosion may render the car uneconomical to repair if multiple mounting points are affected.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,000–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,500–£3,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (Z16A)
Brake pipes on this model are prone to corrosion, failing at 4.8x the national fleet average according to MOT data. The trend is worsening, with 519 recorded failures across multiple mileage bands. Steel brake pipes are particularly vulnerable to UK road salt conditions, and failure represents an immediate safety hazard with potential for complete brake system failure.
What happens if ignoredBrake pipe failure can result in partial or complete loss of braking ability, creating an immediate and severe safety risk. The car should not be driven if brake pipe corrosion is suspected. Emergency repair may require professional recovery and immediate brake system replacement.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£100–£300
Major
Transmission shaft bearing wear (Z16A)
The transmission output shaft bearings on this model are prone to excessive wear, particularly on higher mileage examples. MOT data shows this specific defect occurring at 122x the national fleet average between 80,000-100,000 miles. The failure rate is improving, suggesting remaining examples may have already been repaired or scrapped. This affects power transmission and can lead to complete drivetrain failure if not addressed.
What happens if ignoredComplete bearing failure will result in loss of power transmission and require transmission removal for repair. The car will be immobilised and require recovery. Repair typically involves transmission rebuild or replacement.
Independent garage
£1,500–£2,500
Specialist
£2,000–£3,500
Main dealer
£3,000–£5,000
Parts only
£800–£1,500
Major
Suspension component corrosion (Z16A)
Suspension components on this model suffer from corrosion damage at 8.3x the national fleet average, with the trend worsening. This typically affects control arms, subframes, and mounting brackets where road salt accelerates corrosion of the steel components. The failure rate is concentrated around 80,000-100,000 miles, suggesting age-related deterioration of protective coatings.
What happens if ignoredSeverely corroded suspension components can fail suddenly, affecting vehicle control and safety. Worn components cause uneven tyre wear and poor handling. Repair may require multiple suspension component replacement depending on the extent of corrosion.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£500–£1,000
Main dealer
£700–£1,400
Parts only
£200–£500
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Mitsubishi 3000 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Transmission shaft bearing worn
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 122x the fleet average
Sample: 389 tests
Subframe bushes or mounts worn
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 125 tests
Structural corrosion
Bodywork · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 125 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 277 tests
Seat mounting fault
Seatbelts & Airbags · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 138 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 250 tests
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Related
- Mitsubishi 3000 buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi 3000 service history check
- Mitsubishi 3000 service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi 3000 MOT failure rates
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Mitsubishi 3000 car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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Mitsubishi 3000 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi 3000?
The Mitsubishi 3000 has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting point corrosion (Z16A), Brake pipe corrosion (Z16A).
Is the Mitsubishi 3000 reliable?
The Mitsubishi 3000 has 2 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Mitsubishi 3000 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting point corrosion (Z16A)) costs £800–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.