Mitsubishi 4A93 Engine (2009–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 4A93 is a 1,798 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivers 95–103 kW (129–140 PS) and 175–180 Nm of torque, balancing responsive urban performance with highway refinement.

Fitted to models such as the ASX (GA/GG), Lancer (CY/CE), and Outlander (GW), includ…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2009–2019 meet Euro 5 standards (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/5678; EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC).

Mitsubishi 4A93 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 4A93 is a 1,798 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs and sedans (2009–2019). It combines MIVEC variable valve timing with a lightweight aluminium block to deliver smooth low‑rpm response and highway efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,798 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
86.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output
95–103 kW (129–140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque
175–180 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain‑driven DOHC
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
112 kg

Mitsubishi 4A93 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 4A93 was used across Mitsubishi's GA/GG and CY/CE platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with Daimler AG under the Global Small Car initiative. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Outlander GW and revised intake manifolds in the Lancer CE—and from 2013 the ASX facelift adopted updated engine management software, creating minor ECU interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared use in Smart Forfour (2014–2019) with identical mechanical architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2010–2019
Models:
ASX (GA/GG)
Variants:
1.8L, 1.8L 4WD
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2020
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2009–2017
Models:
Lancer (CY/CE)
Variants:
1.8L GLX, 1.8L GSR
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. M2045
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2010–2012
Models:
Outlander (GW)
Variants:
1.8L 2WD
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. M12‑4567
Make:
Smart
Years:
2014–2019
Models:
Forfour
Variants:
1.0 Turbo (M133) & 1.8L NA (M138)
View Source
Daimler AG EPC #DA‑8890

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Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 4A93 Compatible Models

The 4A93's primary reliability risk is MIVEC solenoid clogging on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 100,000 km, while EU RAR data links a measurable portion of drivability complaints to oil-related MIVEC faults. Extended oil intervals and non-spec oil increase solenoid screen blockage, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

MIVEC solenoid clogging or failure
Symptoms: Check Engine light (P0011/P0014), rough idle, loss of low-end torque, engine in limp mode.
Cause: Fine mesh filter in early solenoid design prone to blockage from oil sludge or soot, restricting oil flow to VVT actuator.
Fix: Replace with updated solenoid assembly (P/N MD967845) and flush oil passages per service bulletin; verify oil spec and interval compliance.
Exhaust manifold heat shield rattle
Symptoms: Ticking or buzzing noise from engine bay on acceleration or deceleration, especially when hot.
Cause: Loose or corroded heat shield mounting brackets on cast-iron exhaust manifold expand/contract under thermal cycling.
Fix: Inspect and resecure or replace heat shield brackets using OEM hardware; ensure no contact with catalytic converter housing.
Thermostat housing coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant puddles under front of engine, sweet smell, occasional overheating warning.
Cause: Plastic thermostat housing prone to cracking from thermal stress and age-related embrittlement.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing with OEM aluminium-reinforced unit; renew O-rings and inspect coolant hoses for degradation.
Ignition coil pack failures
Symptoms: Misfire on one cylinder (P030X codes), rough running, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Early coil packs susceptible to internal insulation breakdown under high under-hood temperatures.
Fix: Replace faulty coil with latest OEM-design pack; inspect spark plugs and wiring for carbon tracking or wear.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2011–2016) and EU RAR failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 4A93 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The 4A93 is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Early models (2009–2012) had MIVEC solenoid issues, but post-2013 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct 5W-30 ACEA A5/B5 oil and timely thermostat housing inspection greatly enhance longevity.

Top issues include MIVEC solenoid clogging (causing cam timing faults), coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, exhaust heat shield rattles, and occasional ignition coil failures. These are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins SB‑11‑0032 and TIS updates.

The 1.8L 4A93 appeared in the ASX (2010–2019), Lancer (2009–2017), and early Outlander GW (2010–2012). It was also used by Smart in the Forfour (2014–2019) under Daimler’s co-development agreement. All are Euro 5 compliant.

Modest gains are possible. ECU remaps typically yield +8–12 kW by optimising ignition and MIVEC timing. Forced induction is not recommended without internal upgrades. Most owners report improved throttle response rather than significant power increases.

Good for its class. In an ASX 1.8L, expect ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~5.4 L/100km (highway), or about 42 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 38–45 mpg (UK), depending on conditions and maintenance.

Yes. The 4A93 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible with severe oil neglect), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is generally robust with proper oil care.

Mitsubishi specifies SAE 5W‑30 oil meeting ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF‑01 standards. Using non‑spec oil (e.g., ACEA C3) can accelerate MIVEC solenoid clogging. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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

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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

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VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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