Generations
DG0 — First Generation
1998–2005
1.3 Petrol, 1.6 Petrol, 1.6 16v Petrol, 1.8 GDI Petrol, 1.9 DI-D Diesel
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi Space Star problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point structural corrosion
The load-bearing structure within 30cm of suspension component mounting points suffers from premature corrosion on the Space Star, particularly around the front subframe attachment areas. MOT data shows this model fails at 58.8 times the national fleet average for structural integrity issues. The thin steel used in construction combined with poor factory rust protection makes this a critical safety defect that appears earlier than expected for the vehicle age.
What happens if ignoredStructural failure of subframe mounting points can cause sudden loss of suspension geometry and steering control, creating an immediate accident risk. Welded repairs are complex and expensive, typically requiring subframe removal. Many cars are written off when this defect reaches MOT failure level.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,000–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,500–£3,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
Suspension bush and joint premature wear
Front suspension bushes, ball joints and control arm joints wear at an exceptionally high rate on the Space Star, with MOT data showing 59.1 times the national fleet average for excessive wear. The combination of soft rubber compounds and high loading from the car's weight distribution causes premature degradation. This affects handling, tyre wear, and can lead to MOT failure from as low as 40,000 miles.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise handling and braking performance, increase tyre wear significantly, and will eventually cause MOT failure. Complete front suspension refresh may be needed by 80,000 miles. The car remains safe to drive with minor wear but deteriorates rapidly once excessive play develops.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
General body structural corrosion
The Space Star suffers from widespread structural corrosion that reduces overall body rigidity, with MOT data showing Areas particularly affected include door frames, sills, and rear wheel arches. The thin steel construction and minimal factory rust protection means corrosion progresses rapidly once established, often requiring extensive welding work.
What happens if ignoredProgressive structural corrosion reduces crash protection and can eventually make the vehicle unsafe or uneconomical to repair. Extensive welding work may be needed to maintain MOT compliance. Many examples become uneconomical to repair when structural corrosion becomes extensive.
Independent garage
£400–£1,200
Specialist
£500–£1,500
Main dealer
£800–£2,500
Parts only
£100–£400
Major
Brake flexible hose deterioration
Brake flexible hoses deteriorate at 18.9 times the national fleet average, showing excessive damage, chafing, or stretching. The rubber compounds appear to age poorly, particularly where hoses flex during steering and suspension movement. This is a safety-critical defect that can progress to brake failure if hoses rupture under pressure.
What happens if ignoredDeteriorated brake hoses can rupture without warning, causing complete brake failure to the affected circuit. Even minor deterioration reduces braking efficiency and pedal feel. This is a safety-critical defect requiring immediate repair when identified.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£100–£180
Main dealer
£150–£250
Parts only
£30–£80
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 Space Star fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 118x the fleet average
Sample: 483 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 74x the fleet average
Sample: 169 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 65x the fleet average
Sample: 574 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 64x the fleet average
Sample: 364 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 59x the fleet average
Sample: 375 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 35x the fleet average
Sample: 282 tests
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Related
- Mitsubishi Space Star buyer's guide
- Mitsubishi Space Star service history check
- Mitsubishi Space Star service schedule & costs
- Mitsubishi Space Star MOT failure rates
- How to check Mitsubishi service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Mitsubishi Space Star car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Mitsubishi Space Star reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Space Star?
The Mitsubishi Space Star has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting point structural corrosion.
Is the Mitsubishi Space Star reliable?
The Mitsubishi Space Star 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 Space Star problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting point structural corrosion) costs £800–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.