Generations
2G — Second Generation
1991–2006
2.5 TD, 2.8 TD, 3.0 V6, 3.5 V6, 3.5 GDI
3G — Third Generation
2000–2013
3.2 DI-D, 3.2 DI-D
4G — Fourth Generation
2007–2021
3.2 DI-D, 2.4 DI-D
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Shogun problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Structural corrosion around brake component mounting points (3G/4G)
The load-bearing structure within 30cm of brake system component mounting points suffers from accelerated corrosion on third and fourth generation Shoguns. This affects the structural integrity around brake master cylinder, servo, and ABS pump mounting areas. The combination of road salt exposure and the vehicle's tendency to trap moisture in these areas creates ideal conditions for rapid metal degradation. MOT data shows this model fails at 47x the fleet average rate for this specific structural defect.
What happens if ignoredStructural failure around brake component mounting points creates immediate safety risk through brake system failure. The affected areas cannot be welded economically due to access restrictions and the precision required for brake component mounting. Most affected vehicles are written off rather than repaired.
Major
Suspension bush and joint wear (2G/3G/4G)
Suspension bushes and ball joints wear at an exceptionally high rate on all Shogun generations due to the vehicle's weight, off-road usage, and inadequate bush compound specification for the loads involved. The front lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar bushes, and ball joints are particularly affected. MOT data shows this model fails at over 100x the fleet average rate, making it one of the most suspension-wear-prone vehicles in the UK.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes cause poor handling, accelerated tyre wear, and eventual MOT failure. Severely worn ball joints create safety risk through loss of steering control. Complete suspension overhaul typically costs £1,500-£3,000 depending on how many components require replacement.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,200–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,800–£3,000
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
Wheel bearing wear (2G/3G/4G)
Wheel bearings wear prematurely on all Shogun generations due to the vehicle's weight, off-road use exposure to water and dirt, and inadequate sealing design. Front wheel bearings are particularly affected due to additional steering loads. MOT data shows failure rates nearly 60x higher than the fleet average, with the problem affecting all engine variants across the model's production run.
What happens if ignoredWorn wheel bearings cause noise, vibration, and uneven tyre wear. Complete bearing failure leads to wheel detachment and loss of vehicle control. Individual bearing replacement costs £200-£400 per corner. Multiple bearing failure is common, requiring budget of £800-£1,600 for full vehicle overhaul.
Independent garage
£200–£300
Specialist
£250–£350
Main dealer
£350–£500
Parts only
£80–£150
Major
Steering rack wear and leakage (2G/3G)
The steering rack develops excessive free play and oil leakage on second and third generation Shoguns due to inadequate seal design and the high steering loads imposed by the vehicle's weight and large tyres. Internal rack bushes wear rapidly, creating steering dead zones and vague road feel. MOT data shows steering box oil leaks at 71x the fleet average and excessive steering play at 76x the average.
What happens if ignoredProgressive steering rack wear leads to dangerous loss of steering precision and eventual MOT failure. Complete steering rack replacement costs £800-£1,500 including labour. Continued driving with excessive play creates safety risk through reduced steering control.
Independent garage
£600–£900
Specialist
£800–£1,200
Main dealer
£1,200–£1,800
Parts only
£300–£600
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 Shogun fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
ABS fault
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 100x the fleet average
Sample: 11,652 tests
Free play in the steering, measured at the rim ...
Steering · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 97x the fleet average
Sample: 452 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 63x the fleet average
Sample: 1,431 tests
Fixings missing or insecure
Bodywork · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 63x the fleet average
Sample: 1,349 tests
Step or stair in a deteriorated condition
Buses and coaches supplementary tests · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 60x the fleet average
Sample: 22,818 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 60x the fleet average
Sample: 339 tests
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Related
- Mitsubishi Shogun buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi Shogun service history check
- Mitsubishi Shogun service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi Shogun MOT failure rates
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Mitsubishi Shogun car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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Mitsubishi Shogun reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Shogun?
The Mitsubishi Shogun has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Structural corrosion around brake component mounting points (3G/4G).
Is the Mitsubishi Shogun reliable?
The Mitsubishi Shogun 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 Shogun problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.
Which Mitsubishi Shogun generation is most reliable?
The 2G (1991–2006) 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.