Thinking about buying a used Mitsubishi L200 (1986–2023) in New Zealand? We've documented 24 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, transmission, and cooling. 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.
24
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$400–$2,200
Typical repair
5
Systems covered
Known Mitsubishi L200 faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
014N15 2.4D Timing Chain Stretch and Cold-Start Rattle
CriticalCommonEngine $2,500–$6,000 to fix
The 4N15 2.4-litre diesel fitted to MQ/MR Tritons uses a timing chain that is dependent on oil pressure at startup for adequate lubrication of the chain tensioner. On vehicles with extended oil change intervals or where oil quality has degraded, the chain and tensioner wear prematurely, producing a characteristic cold-start rattle that clears as oil pressure builds. Widely documented on Triton MQ owner forums in NZ and AU, and confirmed by multiple independent mechanics as an escalating problem if ignored.
Symptoms to notice
Loud rattling or chattering noise from engine on cold start, clearing after 10-30 seconds
Check engine light with timing-related codes (P0016, P0017, P0335)
Rough running or misfires during warm-up phase
What to check
Start the engine from cold and immediately listen for a rattle from the front of the engine. A rattle that persists beyond 15-20 seconds is a serious concern. Request a scan tool reading for timing chain fault codes. Ask when oil was last changed and what grade was used.
Where to look: Front of engine, timing chain cover
Ask the seller
“Does the engine make a rattling sound on cold start?”
“What is the oil change interval used and what oil grade?”
“Have any fault codes relating to timing chain or cam position been logged?”
02INVECS-III Auto Harsh 2-3 Cold Upshift
MinorCommonTransmission $350–$2,200 to fix
The MQ and MR Triton INVECS-III 6-speed automatic transmission produces a pronounced harsh or clunking 2-to-3 upshift when transmission fluid is cold, typically during the first 5-10 minutes of driving in ambient temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius. The fault arises from delayed torque converter lock-up calibration at low fluid temperatures combined with clutch pack engagement timing. Mitsubishi issued TCU software updates revising cold-shift mapping, but not all vehicles have received the reflash. Persistent harshness after a confirmed fluid change and TCU update points to internal valve body wear or clutch pack degradation requiring more extensive transmission servicing.
Symptoms to notice
Noticeable jolt or clunk specifically on the 2-to-3 upshift when transmission is cold
Shift harshness that diminishes significantly once transmission reaches operating temperature
Hesitation or surging at low-speed acceleration in stop-start urban traffic when cold
Occasional transmission warning light illuminating on early MQ models
What to check
Conduct a cold test drive starting from ambient temperature and specifically note shift quality on the 2-to-3 upshift in the first 10 minutes. Check ATF condition and level. Request Mitsubishi dealer service records to confirm the TCU calibration software version is current. Verify ATF has been changed at or before 100,000 km using Mitsubishi Diamond ATF SP-III or equivalent approved fluid.
Where to look: Automatic transmission unit, underfloor centre tunnel behind engine
Ask the seller
“Has the automatic transmission fluid ever been drained and refilled?”
“Has the vehicle visited a Mitsubishi dealer for any transmission-related software update?”
“Does the transmission shift smoothly when fully warmed up after 15 minutes of driving?”
EngineCritical
SuspensionCritical
TransmissionMajor
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CoolingMajor
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Fluid LeaksMajor
SuspensionMinor
EngineMinor
22 more documented faults on the Mitsubishi L200
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 24 documented faults for the Mitsubishi L200, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and transmission. A Mitsubishi L200 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 L200?
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We've catalogued 24 known faults for the Mitsubishi L200, 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 L200?
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Most single repairs on the Mitsubishi L200 fall between $400–$2,200 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 24 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 L200?
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Yes. A Mitsubishi L200 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.