The Mitsubishi 3A90 is a 1,193 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. In standard form it delivered 55–59 kW (75–80 PS) with torque figures between 106–110 Nm, offering responsive low‑end performance for city driving.
Fitted to models such as the Colt (Z30), Mirage (HA/HE), and i — MiEV (as a range extender in select mar…
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2017 models meet Euro 5 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/5678).
The Mitsubishi 3A90 is a 1,193 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact vehicles (2006–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low‑rpm performance and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and later Euro 5) standards, it balances compact packaging with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,193 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 55–59 kW (75–80 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 106–110 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2017) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | API SN/ILSAC GF‑5, SAE 5W‑30 | |
Dry weight | 87 kg |
The Mitsubishi 3A90 was used across Mitsubishi's Z30/HA platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Colt and modified accessory brackets in the Mirage—and from 2012 the global Mirage (HE) adopted a revised intake manifold and ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2006–2014) and JAMA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 3A90 is generally reliable if well-maintained, but early models (2006–2009) had oil consumption issues. Post-2009 revisions significantly improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct 5W-30 GF-5 oil and monitoring oil levels are essential for longevity, especially in city-driven vehicles.
Key issues include oil consumption (pre-2009), MIVEC solenoid sticking due to dirty oil, vacuum leaks from intake gaskets, and engine mount wear. These are documented in Mitsubishi TSB‑ME‑06‑012 and related service communications. Most are preventable with proper maintenance.
The 3A90 powered the Colt (Z30, 2006–2012), Mirage (HA, 2007–2012), Mirage (HE, 2012–2017), and the i-MiEV range extender variant (2010–2013, limited markets). It was exclusive to Mitsubishi and not licensed to other manufacturers.
Limited tuning potential due to small displacement and naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps yield modest gains (~3–5 kW), but require careful calibration to avoid lean conditions. Forced induction is impractical without extensive internal modifications. Most owners prioritize reliability over performance.
Excellent for its era. In a 2010 Mirage 1.2, typical consumption is ~5.8 L/100km (city) and ~4.2 L/100km (highway), or about 54 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 50–60 mpg (UK), depending on conditions and maintenance.
Yes. The 3A90 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare due to its maintenance-free design), piston-to-valve contact would likely cause severe internal damage. However, chain failures are extremely uncommon in this engine family.
Mitsubishi specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SN and ILSAC GF-5 standards. ACEA A5/B5 oils are acceptable. Always use a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil and change it every 10,000 km (or 6 months) to protect the MIVEC system and minimize oil consumption.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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