Generations
NA — Grandis
2004–2010
2.4 MIVEC, 2.0 DI-D
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Grandis problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point corrosion
The load-bearing structure around suspension mounting points suffers from corrosion that weakens the connection between the subframe and body shell. This affects the prescribed areas within 30cm of spring and suspension component mounting points. MOT data shows this model fails at 11.3 times the fleet average for structural integrity around these mounting points, with the diesel variant particularly affected at 100,000-120,000 miles. This represents a fundamental structural safety issue that can lead to suspension component detachment.
What happens if ignoredIf mounting points fail completely, suspension components can detach from the vehicle causing immediate loss of control and potential accident. Structural repairs typically require welding and may not be economically viable on older vehicles. The car is not safe to drive if structural integrity is compromised.
Independent garage
£500–£1,500
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,200–£3,000
Parts only
£100–£400
Major
Excessive steering free play
The steering rack develops excessive wear causing dangerous free play at the steering wheel. MOT data shows this model fails at 12.5 times the fleet average for steering free play, particularly affecting the 2.4-litre petrol variant at 80,000-100,000 miles. The rack's internal seals and steering mechanism wear prematurely, creating looseness that affects vehicle control and directional stability. This is a significant safety defect that worsens progressively.
What happens if ignoredExcessive steering free play creates unpredictable vehicle handling and increases accident risk, particularly in emergency situations requiring quick steering inputs. Complete rack replacement is typically required. The vehicle should not be driven if free play exceeds MOT limits as it represents a direct safety hazard.
Independent garage
£400–£700
Specialist
£500–£900
Main dealer
£700–£1,200
Parts only
£250–£500
Major
Suspension component wear and corrosion
Multiple suspension components suffer from premature wear and corrosion damage. MOT data shows failures at 9.8 times the fleet average for worn suspension pins, bushes and joints, with an additional 6.4 times the average for general suspension component corrosion. The diesel variant is particularly affected, with issues appearing from 80,000 miles. This encompasses wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar links, shock absorber mounts, and ball joints that deteriorate due to design weakness and corrosion susceptibility.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise vehicle handling, braking performance, and occupant safety. Multiple components typically require replacement together, creating significant repair costs. Severely worn ball joints or control arms can separate, causing loss of control. The vehicle remains driveable with minor wear but should be repaired promptly to prevent deterioration into dangerous territory.
Independent garage
£300–£800
Specialist
£400–£1,000
Main dealer
£600–£1,400
Parts only
£150–£500
Minor
Engine management light illumination
The engine management warning light illuminates at 4-litre petrol variant at higher mileages. This indicates detected malfunctions in the engine control system which can range from sensor failures to more serious mechanical issues. While the car typically remains driveable, the underlying cause requires diagnosis to prevent potential engine damage and ensure emissions compliance.
What happens if ignoredWhile often caused by minor sensor faults, the engine management light can indicate serious engine problems requiring significant repair. The car will fail its MOT test with the light illuminated. Diagnosis typically costs £80-£120, with repair costs varying from £50 for a sensor to over £1,000 for major engine management system faults.
Independent garage
£80–£500
Specialist
£100–£600
Main dealer
£120–£800
Parts only
£20–£300
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a specific car →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Mitsubishi Grandis fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 41x the fleet average
Sample: 133 tests
Registration plate lamp not securely attached
Lights & Electrics · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 36x the fleet average
Sample: 614 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 29x the fleet average
Sample: 577 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 588 tests
Bumper insecure or with damage
Bodywork · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 577 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 185 tests
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Related
Mitsubishi Grandis reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Grandis?
The Mitsubishi Grandis has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting point corrosion.
Is the Mitsubishi Grandis reliable?
The Mitsubishi Grandis has 1 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 Grandis problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting point corrosion) costs £500–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.