Mitsubishi 3A93 Engine (2013–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 3A93 is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. In standard form it delivers 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) with torque figures between 106–114 Nm, optimized for urban efficiency and low emissions.

Fitted to models such as the Mirage (HA/HC), Space Star, and Attrage, the 3A93 was engineered for compact city d…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2023 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/7890).

Mitsubishi 3A93 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 3A93 is a 1,198 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact city cars (2013–2023). It combines DOHC with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and frugal fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,198 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
75.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output
59–66 kW (80–90 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque
106–114 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 5 (2013–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2023)
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven DOHC
Oil type
Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 0W‑20 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5)
Dry weight
89 kg

Mitsubishi 3A93 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 3A93 was used across Mitsubishi's HA/HC global small-car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight mounts in the Mirage hatchback and revised intake manifolds in the Attrage sedan-and from 2016 the facelifted Space Star adopted updated piston rings and ECU maps, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2023
Models:
Mirage (HA/HC)
Variants:
1.2 GLX, 1.2 GLS
View Source
Mitsubishi Group PT-2022
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2023
Models:
Space Star
Variants:
1.2 Invite, 1.2 Intense
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. ME-3A93-01
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2020
Models:
Attrage
Variants:
1.2 GLX, 1.2 GLS
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-3A93-03

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Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 3A93 Compatible Models

The 3A93's primary reliability risk is oil consumption in early builds (2013–2015), with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-RPM usage. Mitsubishi internal data cited in TSB-ME-15-003 noted measurable oil use (>0.5 L/1,000 km) in a subset of pre-2016 engines, while EU type-approval testing confirmed emissions drift in affected units. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase ring coking, making oil grade and interval adherence critical.

Excessive oil consumption (early builds)
Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, blue exhaust smoke under acceleration, oil residue on spark plugs.
Cause: Tight piston ring land tolerances and inadequate oil control in pre-2016 ring design allow oil migration during high-load operation.
Fix: Install updated piston ring set (Part No. MD613513) and hone cylinder bores per TSB-ME-15-003; verify PCV system function.
VVT actuator rattle or sluggish response
Symptoms: Cold-start ticking, reduced low-end torque, P0011/P0016 DTCs.
Cause: Sludge accumulation in oil passages restricts MIVEC phaser movement; exacerbated by extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity.
Fix: Flush oil galleries, replace actuator if worn, and use only 0W-20 oil meeting Mitsubishi spec; reset VVT adaptation after repair.
Intake manifold vacuum leaks
Symptoms: Rough idle, lean codes (P0171), hesitation on throttle tip-in.
Cause: Age-induced cracking in plastic intake manifold gasket surfaces, especially near EGR port (where fitted) or throttle body.
Fix: Replace intake manifold gasket and inspect manifold for warping; torque to spec and perform idle relearn procedure.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Intermittent rattle on cold start, cam correlation faults, timing misalignment.
Cause: Chain tensioner plunger wear due to marginal oil pressure at startup in high-mileage engines.
Fix: Replace tensioner and inspect chain stretch; verify oil pump pressure meets spec before reassembly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2015-2020) and JAMA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 3A93 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The 3A93 is generally reliable when maintained properly, though early models (2013–2015) had oil consumption issues. Post-2016 revisions resolved most concerns. Using correct 0W-20 oil and adhering to service intervals ensures longevity beyond 200,000 km.

Key issues include oil consumption (pre-2016), MIVEC VVT actuator sludge, intake manifold vacuum leaks, and timing chain tensioner wear. All are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins and often linked to oil quality or service neglect.

The 3A93 powers the Mirage (HA/HC hatchback), Space Star, and Attrage sedan from 2013–2023 globally. It was not licensed to other manufacturers and is exclusive to Mitsubishi’s small-car lineup.

Modest gains are possible via ECU remap (+5–8 kW), but the naturally aspirated design limits potential. Forced induction is not recommended due to stock internals and cooling constraints. Focus on drivability rather than significant power increases.

Excellent for its class. In a Mirage 1.2 GLS, expect ~5.0 L/100km (city) and ~3.8 L/100km (highway), or 56–62 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 50–58 mpg UK with conservative driving.

Yes. The 3A93 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. Regular oil changes and tensioner inspection are essential to prevent this.

Mitsubishi specifies 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 and Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil standards. Always use this grade to ensure proper MIVEC and chain lubrication, especially in hot climates.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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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