Generations
P25W — Second Generation (P25W/P35W)
1989–2007
2.8 Turbo Diesel, 3.0 V6 Petrol, 3.0 V6 Petrol
D5 — Fourth Generation (D5)
2007–2021
3.0 V6 Petrol, 3.0 V6 Petrol
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Delica problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe and mounting point corrosion (P25W)
The load-bearing subframe structure around suspension mounting points suffers severe corrosion on diesel variants, particularly around the rear suspension pickup points and chassis rails. This affects structural rigidity and can lead to sudden suspension component failure. MOT data shows 2.8-litre diesel variants fail at 16.9 times the fleet average for subframe structural defects at high mileage. Many grey imports have spent years in coastal areas of Japan before UK import, accelerating the corrosion process.
What happens if ignoredStructural failure around suspension mounting points creates an immediate safety hazard and MOT failure. Complete chassis repair typically requires specialist welding and fabrication work costing £2,000-£5,000. In severe cases the vehicle may be beyond economical repair. The vehicle should not be driven if structural integrity is compromised.
Independent garage
£1,500–£3,000
Specialist
£2,000–£5,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
Suspension component wear (P25W)
Suspension bushes, ball joints, and shock absorber mounts wear excessively due to the commercial vehicle design and often heavy loading history. MOT data shows this model fails at 12.5 times the fleet average for worn suspension joints, with diesel variants particularly affected at high mileage. The leaf spring rear suspension is robust but bushes deteriorate, while front wishbone bushes and ball joints require regular replacement.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components cause poor handling, irregular tyre wear, and eventual MOT failure. Complete front suspension rebuild typically costs £800-£1,500 depending on components needed. Driving with severely worn suspension affects braking performance and vehicle stability.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Steering rack gaiter damage (P25W)
The steering rack protective gaiters (rubber boots) fail at an exceptionally high rate, allowing dirt and moisture to contaminate the steering rack mechanism. MOT data shows 2.8-litre diesel variants fail at 20.2 times the fleet average for missing or ineffective steering rack gaiters. Once contaminated, the steering rack internals wear rapidly and require expensive replacement or reconditioning.
What happens if ignoredFailed gaiters allow dirt contamination that destroys the steering rack internals within 6-12 months. Steering rack replacement or reconditioning costs £600-£1,200. Progressive steering failure creates a safety hazard and immediate MOT failure. Early gaiter replacement prevents expensive rack damage.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£120–£200
Main dealer
£180–£300
Parts only
£20–£40
Major
Wheel bearing failure (P25W)
Front and rear wheel bearings fail at 8.2 times the fleet average on 2.8-litre diesel variants, particularly at high mileage. The commercial vehicle design and often heavy loading history accelerates bearing wear. Failed bearings create safety risks through wheel wobble and can lead to wheel detachment in extreme cases.
What happens if ignoredWorn wheel bearings cause progressively worse vibration, noise, and handling problems. Complete bearing failure can result in wheel detachment and loss of vehicle control. Replacement typically costs £150-£300 per corner including labour. The vehicle should not be driven if bearings have significant play.
Independent garage
£150–£250
Specialist
£200–£300
Main dealer
£250–£400
Parts only
£50–£100
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 Delica fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
ABS fault
Suspension · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 84x the fleet average
Sample: 327 tests
Coil springs broken
Suspension · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 52x the fleet average
Sample: 157 tests
Steering rack wear
Steering · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 532 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 329 tests
Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that t...
Bodywork · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 521 tests
Electrical wiring fault
Lights & Electrics · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 147 tests
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Related
- Mitsubishi Delica buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi Delica service history check
- Mitsubishi Delica service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi Delica MOT failure rates
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Mitsubishi Delica car check £7.49
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Mitsubishi Delica reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Delica?
The Mitsubishi Delica has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe and mounting point corrosion (P25W).
Is the Mitsubishi Delica reliable?
The Mitsubishi Delica has 1 dangerous and 3 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 Delica problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe and mounting point corrosion (P25W)) costs £1,500–£3,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.
Which Mitsubishi Delica generation is most reliable?
The D5 (2007–2021) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.