Mitsubishi Colt
Mercedes-Renault cooperation engine (1.5 dCi/DI-D). Prone to DPF clogging with short-trip use and turbocharger wear. Reliable with regular oil changes and motorway use. Replace timing belt every 90,000 km.
Economy diesel
Minimal on fuel and power — the smallest diesel is only good for relaxed city cruising.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The diesel particulate filter on the OM639.939 blocks up with predominantly short-trip use. Regeneration requires at least 30 minutes of motorway driving. A blocked DPF causes power loss and limp mode.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power loss, high fuel consumption, smoke from exhaust
The OM639.939 uses a timing belt drive. Exceeding the 90,000 km replacement interval risks engine damage from valve contact. Insist on service records before buying.
Symptoms: Engine cranks without firing, engine damage after belt failure
The turbocharger on the OM639.939 Colt diesel shows increased wear when oil changes are missed or with predominantly short-trip use. Typically from 130,000–160,000 km. Do not switch off the engine immediately after a hot run.
Symptoms: Whistling from the turbo, power loss, blue smoke
The EGR valve on the OM639.939 carbons up with frequent urban use. Typical symptom is power loss and limp mode. Cleaning costs approx. €100–300, replacement up to €500.
Symptoms: Power loss, limp mode, engine fault light, rough engine running
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
Around 1,348 vehicles from model years 2010–2011 were recalled because the fuel tank sender unit could allow fuel to escape due to insufficient material strength.
The immobiliser fails to recognise the key reliably. The starter battery gives up prematurely, and light bulbs generally have a short service life. On 2005–2006 model years the throttle body can cause sudden engine shutdown.
The AC compressor fails particularly on 2006–2009 models, often already from 70,000 km. Cooling performance slowly deteriorates until the system fails completely. Compressor replacement is relatively expensive on this small car.
The throttle body becomes dirty or fails particularly on 2005–2006 models. Engine enters limp mode, check engine light illuminates. Cleaning or a software update often resolves it.
Brake discs wear above average and are frequently flagged as defective at MOT. Failed rear lights are another typical MOT issue. Regular brake system inspection recommended.
The front axle tends to rumble due to worn steering ball joints and drop links. Ball joints are frequently flagged at MOT.
Low-beam bulbs and rear light clusters fail on the Colt above-average often. This was a recurring ADAC breakdown reason and an MOT advisory point.
The starter battery on the Colt Z30 quits early. In ADAC reliability reports the battery was among the most frequent breakdown causes.
Reverse gear requires increased effort to engage. Other gears can also become stiff over time.
The dashboard and trim panels rattle on pre-facelift models due to poor panel fit. Adding sound-deadening material is the only remedy.