Mitsubishi Space Star A05
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Mitsubishi Space Star A05 is available with 2 engine variants — from 71 to 80 hp.
Robust 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with timing chain and conventional port injection. Mechanically straightforward and low maintenance, no known structural weaknesses. Check spark plugs and starter system when buying used.
- ! Spark plug failure (model years 2013–2014) from 65,000 km
Vehicles from model years 2013 and 2014 show increased spark plug failures. Early production batches are primarily affected. Normal replacement interval is 60,000–80,000 km.
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, idle fluctuation, increased fuel consumption - ! Starter motor spins without engaging from 120,000 km
Multiple owners report the starter motor not engaging the engine correctly. Occurs mainly after extended operation or in cold weather. Starter motor or overrunning clutch pinion worn.
Symptoms: Engine spins freely during starting, starter fails to engage, cranking noise without ignition
Well-behaved 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with MIVEC variable valve timing and timing chain. Considered low-maintenance and very long-lived. Weaknesses are rare and mainly concern oil consumption at high mileage and CVT gearbox wear.
- !! CVT chain wears with missed oil changes from 160,000 km
The optional CVT gearbox is fundamentally robust but sensitive to missed oil changes. With intervals exceeding 80,000 km the chain can slip or wear out. Oil change every 40,000–60,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Slipping on pull-away, hesitation during load changes, transmission overheating warning, juddering under acceleration - ! Elevated oil consumption due to valve stem seals from 130,000 km
MIVEC engines in this range can suffer from failed valve stem seals at higher mileages, leading to creeping oil consumption. Consumption above 300 ml per 1,000 km is a warning sign.
Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start, increased oil consumption without visible external leak, faint oil smell from exhaust
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake discs wearing prematurely The front brake discs wear at an above-average rate, often within five years. The low vehicle weight masks the wear in everyday use, which can lead to late detection. Symptoms: Vibration when braking, squealing or grinding, visible grooves in the brake discs from 50,000 km | Low |
Alternatives
Explore more
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Mitsubishi Space Star A05 (2013–2020) — 4 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Brakes, Rust, Electronics, Interior. Considered reliable: 3A91 (1.0L MIVEC), 3B20 (1.2L MIVEC).
What to watch out for with the Mitsubishi Space Star? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Mitsubishi Space Star A05 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Mitsubishi Space Star A05? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Mitsubishi Space Star A05 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Mitsubishi Space Star A05 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Mitsubishi Space Star A05 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Mitsubishi Space Star A05? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee