Mitsubishi Space Star
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.
Minimalist on wheels
52 kW is enough for city driving, but motorway cruising becomes laboured. Economical and cheap to run, but completely devoid of driving fun.
Engine Weaknesses 2
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
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
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The underbody has only inadequate factory protection and rusts noticeably faster than the body. The rear brake drums also corrode heavily. Additional treatment is strongly recommended for winter operation on salted roads.
On model years 2013 and 2014 spark plugs fail more frequently. The starter cranks without the engine firing. There is also a recall for faulty stop-start software on model years 2016–2020.
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.
Sound insulation is virtually non-existent; road and wind noise penetrate the cabin unfiltered. Seats creak with age, the glove box rattles, and hard plastic dominates the surfaces.
Heating output is inadequate in winter, especially with the 1.0-litre engines. The small engines produce little waste heat, so the cabin warms up slowly and can remain cool on longer journeys.