Mitsubishi Delica D:5: common faults & what to check
Thinking about buying a used Mitsubishi Delica D:5 (1994–2019) in New Zealand? We've documented 21 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, transmission, and body & rust. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
21
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$600–$2,200
Typical repair
8
Systems covered
Known Mitsubishi Delica D:5 faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
014N14 2.2D Timing Chain Rattle (JDM Import)
CriticalOccasionalEngine $2,800–$6,500 to fix
The 4N14 2.2-litre diesel fitted to Delica D:5 imports develops a timing chain rattle similar to Mitsubishi's other 4Nx-series engines. The chain tensioner is oil-pressure dependent and degrades with age, particularly on vehicles with extended or infrequent oil changes. Documented on Japanese Delica owner forums and reported by NZ independent mechanics who service the growing JDM Delica D:5 import fleet. The fault is progressive — ignored rattles lead to full chain replacement.
Symptoms to notice
Rattling or chattering from front of engine on cold start
Rattle persisting beyond 20 seconds or returning intermittently when warm
Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes
What to check
Start the engine from cold and listen immediately for rattling from the timing cover area. A rattle clearing within a few seconds and not returning is a minor concern; one persisting or returning when warm requires chain inspection. Check oil change history carefully — late oil changes are the primary cause.
Where to look: Front of engine, timing chain cover
Ask the seller
“What is the full oil change history including intervals and oil grade?”
“Does the engine rattle on cold start?”
“Has the timing chain or tensioner ever been inspected or replaced?”
02Power steering pump seal leak
MinorVery commonFluid Leaks $300–$950 to fix
The power steering pump fitted to both the 4M40 diesel and 6G72 petrol L400 Delica uses rubber shaft and body seals that harden and weep with age. On vehicles over 15 years old, seal failure is routine rather than exceptional. A weeping pump seal allows power steering fluid to leak onto the front of the engine or onto the accessory belt, creating a fire risk and contaminating the belt. Continued operation with low fluid levels causes pump whine and accelerated pump wear. The fault is very common on any L400 Delica that has not had the power steering system serviced.
Symptoms to notice
Whining or moaning noise from the engine bay when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speed
Power steering fluid puddle or staining beneath the front of the vehicle after parking
Wet or contaminated accessory drive belt with associated belt squeal
What to check
With the engine running and at operating temperature, inspect the power steering pump body and shaft seal area for fresh fluid seepage. Check the accessory belt for fluid contamination or glazing. Check the power steering fluid reservoir level. Turn the steering to full lock both ways and hold briefly, then recheck the pump for seepage under pressure.
Where to look: Power steering pump mounted on the front of the engine, driven by the accessory belt on the driver's side
Ask the seller
“Has the power steering fluid been changed, and when was the pump last inspected for leaks?”
“Is there any whining noise from the steering at low speeds or when parking?”
“Has the power steering fluid reservoir needed topping up?”
EngineCritical
SuspensionCritical
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
Body & RustMajor
EngineMajor
ElectricalMajor
TransmissionMajor
SuspensionMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
CoolingMajor
SuspensionMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
EngineMajor
BrakesMajor
EngineMajor
Body & RustMinor
19 more documented faults on the Mitsubishi Delica D:5
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 21 documented faults for the Mitsubishi Delica D:5, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and transmission. A Mitsubishi Delica D:5 with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Mitsubishi Delica D:5?
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We've catalogued 21 known faults for the Mitsubishi Delica D:5, covering engine, suspension, and transmission. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Mitsubishi Delica D:5?
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Most single repairs on the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 fall between $600–$2,200 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 21 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Mitsubishi Delica D:5?
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Yes. A Mitsubishi Delica D:5 inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.