Generations
DA0 — First Generation
1995–2004
1.6 16v, 1.8 GDI, 1.9 DI-D
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Carisma problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting area corrosion (DA0)
The front and rear subframe mounting points on the Carisma are prone to structural corrosion that compromises the load-bearing capacity of the shell. This affects the prescribed areas within 30cm of suspension component mountings where corrosion can weaken the connection between subframe and body. The issue is particularly severe because it affects the fundamental structural integrity of the vehicle and can lead to suspension component detachment.
What happens if ignoredSubframe mounting failure presents a direct safety risk as suspension components can detach from the vehicle body. This can cause immediate loss of vehicle control. Professional structural assessment is required and repair costs can exceed the vehicle's value if multiple mounting points are affected. The vehicle should not be driven if significant corrosion is present.
Major
Steering rack gaiter deterioration (DA0)
The steering rack protective gaiters on the Carisma deteriorate at a significantly higher rate than other vehicles, allowing dirt and water ingress to the steering rack internals. MOT data shows failures at 22.3x the fleet average, making this the most common MOT failure point for this model. Once the gaiters fail, contamination causes rapid wear of the rack and pinion assembly leading to steering play, fluid leaks, and eventual rack replacement.
What happens if ignoredFailed gaiters allow contamination of the steering rack leading to internal wear and fluid leaks. If left unrepaired, the steering rack will require replacement at significantly higher cost. While not immediately dangerous, continued driving with failed gaiters accelerates rack deterioration and may eventually cause steering failure.
Major
Suspension joint deterioration (DA0)
Suspension bushes and joints on the Carisma deteriorate at 18.1x the fleet average rate, with dust covers failing at 14x the fleet average. This widespread suspension wear affects ride quality, handling precision, and tyre wear patterns. The issue encompasses control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, and ball joint dust covers. Multiple components typically require replacement simultaneously due to the systemic nature of the deterioration.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components cause poor handling, increased tyre wear, and reduced braking effectiveness. Multiple components typically need replacement which can be costly. While not immediately dangerous, severely worn suspension affects vehicle safety and should be repaired promptly to maintain roadworthiness.
Major
Brake hose deterioration (DA0)
Flexible brake hoses on the Carisma deteriorate at 16.3x the fleet average, particularly affecting the diesel variants. The rubber hoses connecting the brake lines to the calipers become damaged, deteriorated, or twisted with age, creating a potential brake system safety risk. This is a critical safety component as brake hose failure can cause partial or complete brake system failure.
What happens if ignoredBrake hose failure can cause partial or complete loss of braking ability, presenting an immediate safety risk. Failed hoses must be replaced immediately before driving. Even minor deterioration should be addressed promptly as brake system integrity is critical for safe operation.
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 Carisma fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 380 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 479 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 346 tests
Steering rack wear
Steering · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 22x the fleet average
Sample: 638 tests
Suspension joint dust cover missing or no longe...
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 230 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 407 tests
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Related
- Mitsubishi Carisma buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi Carisma service history check
- Mitsubishi Carisma service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi Carisma MOT failure rates
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
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Mitsubishi Carisma reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Carisma?
The Mitsubishi Carisma has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting area corrosion (DA0).
Is the Mitsubishi Carisma reliable?
The Mitsubishi Carisma has 1 dangerous and 4 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 Carisma problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.