Mitsubishi Carisma
1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine with timing belt drive. Reliable everyday engine with no known series weaknesses. Replace timing belt every 90,000 km. DOHC variant runs loudly on cold start — normal, not a fault.
Solid and boring
Reliable and economical, but completely without character. The 103 hp moves the Carisma adequately, nothing more.
Engine Weaknesses 3
Like all timing belt engines of this era, a broken belt on the 4G92 causes total engine failure through valve collision. Strictly observe the 90,000 km or 6-year replacement interval. Verify with a service history check before purchase.
Symptoms: Engine cranks without firing, loud metallic noise on start attempt, engine won't start
On the 4G92 Carisma the front crankshaft radial seal frequently leaks after 100,000–150,000 km. Oil gets onto the timing belt and accelerates its wear — check immediately if an oil leak is found.
Symptoms: Oil drops under the front of the engine, oil visible on the timing belt cover
The 4G92 thermostat can stick in the open position, preventing the engine from reaching operating temperature. Increased wear and high fuel consumption result. Simple and cheap to replace.
Symptoms: Engine never reaches operating temperature according to gauge, high fuel consumption, cool air from heater
Vehicle Weaknesses 3
The front axle ball joints develop play and clunk over bumps. More robust control arms only came in from mid-1998 onwards. On earlier build dates regular front axle checks are essential.
On vehicles built before autumn 1997 the ignition lock can stick and prevent starting. The immobiliser also fails to recognise the key reliably. Marten bites to the ignition leads occur above-average often.
On the earliest model years leaking fuel system seals caused odour intrusion into the cabin. Mitsubishi fixed the problem at service visits with new seals; later model years are less affected.