Generations
GA — First Generation
2010–2020
1.6 DiD, 1.6 MIVEC, 1.6 DiD, 1.6 MIVEC, 1.8 DiD, 1.8 DiD
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Asx problems ranked by severity. We track 8 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion (GA)
MOT data shows the ASX fails brake pipe corrosion tests at 94.1 times the national fleet average, with 511 recorded failures across all variants. The brake pipes, particularly those running along the rear axle and behind the fuel tank, are prone to corrosion from road salt and water ingress. This is a safety-critical issue that can lead to complete brake failure. The problem affects all engine variants and becomes more prevalent with age and mileage.
What happens if ignoredBrake pipe failure can cause complete loss of braking ability, leading to a serious accident. Corroded pipes must be replaced immediately and the brake system bled. Replacement of rear brake pipes typically costs £300-600 depending on extent of corrosion. The car should not be driven if brake pipe corrosion is suspected.
Independent garage
£200–£500
Specialist
£250–£600
Main dealer
£350–£800
Parts only
£50–£150
Major
DPF blockage and regeneration failure (GA)
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) on Mitsubishi diesel engines becomes blocked with soot if the car is used primarily for short urban journeys. The system requires regular high-temperature regeneration cycles to burn off accumulated particulates, typically achieved during sustained motorway driving. When regeneration fails repeatedly, the DPF warning light illuminates and the engine enters limp mode. This is the most widely reported issue on diesel ASX models, with replacement DPF units costing over £1000. Covers expert database entry: DPF issues.
What happens if ignoredA completely blocked DPF requires replacement at £1000-1500 plus fitting. In severe cases, backpressure can damage the turbocharger or cause oil contamination. The car may enter permanent limp mode and fail the MOT emissions test. Continued driving with a blocked DPF can cause expensive engine damage.
Independent garage
£500–£1,200
Specialist
£600–£1,400
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£400–£900
Major
CVT transmission juddering at high mileage (GA)
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fitted to petrol ASX models develops internal wear that causes juddering during acceleration, particularly from standstill and at low speeds. The steel belt and pulley system gradually wears, creating vibration that is felt through the steering wheel and floor. This is a known characteristic of high-mileage CVT units and is exacerbated by infrequent fluid changes. Once juddering develops, the transmission typically requires replacement rather than repair. Covers expert database entry: CVT issues at high mileage.
What happens if ignoredCVT replacement costs £3000-4000 including fitting. Rebuilt units may be available for £1500-2500 but have uncertain longevity. The juddering will progressively worsen and may eventually prevent normal driving. The transmission is generally reliable until high mileage but expensive to repair when it fails.
Independent garage
£1,500–£3,500
Specialist
£2,000–£4,000
Main dealer
£3,000–£5,000
Parts only
£1,200–£2,500
Major
Front suspension component wear and corrosion (GA)
MOT data shows the ASX has suspension component failures at 282.2 times the national fleet average for worn bushes and joints, with 52 recorded failures. The front lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and ball joints are particularly susceptible to wear and corrosion. Additionally, suspension components suffer from excessive corrosion at 282.2 times the fleet average. This creates dangerous handling characteristics and MOT failures.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components create unpredictable handling, increased braking distances, and rapid tyre wear. Severely corroded components can fail completely, causing loss of control. Typical repair costs range from £200-600 depending on which components need replacement. The car will fail its MOT if suspension wear exceeds limits.
Independent garage
£200–£500
Specialist
£250–£600
Main dealer
£350–£800
Parts only
£80–£250
4 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 Asx fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 42x the fleet average
Sample: 157 tests
Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 2,498 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 172 tests
Brake pipes corroded
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 235 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 10x the fleet average
Sample: 1,032 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.9x the fleet average
Sample: 3,467 tests
Looking at a specific Mitsubishi Asx?
Check its dealer service history to see if the maintenance that prevents these problems was actually done.
£6.99 · Full refund if no records found
Related
- Mitsubishi Asx buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi Asx service history check
- Mitsubishi Asx service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi Asx MOT failure rates
- Mitsubishi Asx price guide
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Mitsubishi Asx car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Mitsubishi Asx reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Asx?
The Mitsubishi Asx has 8 known issues across 4 severity levels. The most serious are: Brake pipe corrosion (GA).
Is the Mitsubishi Asx reliable?
The Mitsubishi Asx has 1 dangerous and 5 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 Asx problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Brake pipe corrosion (GA)) costs £200–£500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.