Mitsubishi L200 4(KB)

The KB-series L200 (2005–2015) is the classic ladder-frame work pickup with a double cab and honest, no-nonsense engineering — bought as a workhorse, not a lifestyle accessory. Don't let the bulletproof reputation blind you, though: one big issue decides whether you buy or walk away.

The engines: There's only the 4D56, the 2.5-litre turbodiesel with 100 kW. A tough motor with a decades-long reputation, but not a fit-and-forget unit. The key is timing belt discipline: change interval around 90,000 km, and there are TWO belts (timing and balance shaft) that must be replaced together. A snapped belt means catastrophic valve damage (sev5). The second recurring theme is overheating as the main cause of failed head gaskets (sev4) — inspect the cooling system meticulously. Turbo failure (sev4) and EGR clogging (sev3) are age-related, the carboned-up intake manifold (prob4) practically standard.

Model years: Same pattern throughout the run — more important than the year is a complete service book with a documented belt change. No proof? Budget the belt as an immediate purchase cost.

The whole vehicle: The core issue is frame rust on the ladder chassis (sev5/prob4). This is NOT cosmetic — rotted-through rails can write the truck off entirely, with repairs ranging from €800 to €6,000. The rear leaf springs often sag (€200–600), the 3rd-gear synchro wears (€600–1,800), and the 4WD selector jams if rarely used (€150–700) — so shift through the modes regularly. Plus the small stuff: glow plugs, creaky steering-column joints, false airbag warnings from wiring faults, sensitive paint, and water ingress at the tailgate.

Test drive: Get under it first — tap the ladder frame at the crossmembers, spring hangers and sills with a screwdriver. Bubbling paint or flaking on the rails = walk away. Cycle the 4WD (4H/4L), listen for a crunch in 3rd gear, check the rear corner for water inside, and inspect the coolant for oil emulsion.

Market 2026: Tidy KB L200s with full belt history and a clean frame sit around €7,000–14,000. Insider pick: a commercially run example with service history from a dry region — and when in doubt, spend €1,000 more on a rust-free frame than chase a so-called bargain that fails inspection through the floor.