Mitsubishi 4B11 Engine (2007–2017) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 4B11 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivered 107–121 kW (145–165 PS) with torque between 198–201 Nm, providing responsive mid‑range power for compact and performance applications.

Fitted to models such as the Lancer (CY/CS), Lancer E…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2017 models meet Euro 5 depending on market (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association Type Approval #JAMA/4B11/2011).

Mitsubishi 4B11 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 4B11 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and performance variants (2007–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with MIVEC variable valve timing on both camshafts to deliver responsive mid‑range torque and smooth high‑rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and later Euro 5) standards, it balances sporty character with daily usability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,998 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
86.0 mm × 86.0 mm
Power output
107–121 kW (145–165 PS)
Torque
198–201 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (2007–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2017)
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None (naturally aspirated variants)
Timing system
Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design)
Oil type
Mitsubishi Genuine 5W‑30 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5)
Dry weight
128 kg

Mitsubishi 4B11 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 4B11 was used across Mitsubishi's CY/CS/CZ4A/CW/CE platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts and oil cooler in the Lancer Evolution X and simplified MIVEC calibration in the Outlander—and from 2011 the facelifted Lancer models adopted updated emissions hardware, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2007–2017
Models:
Lancer (CY/CS)
Variants:
1.8L (4B10 base), 2.0L GSR, 2.0L GT
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2020
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2007–2016
Models:
Lancer Evolution X (CZ4A)
Variants:
2.0L Turbo (4B11T only – note: this entry refers to NA 4B11 base architecture)
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ENG‑4B11‑EVO
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2007–2012
Models:
Outlander (CW/CE)
Variants:
2.0L GLX, 2.0L GLS
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. ME‑OUT‑2007
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2010–2015
Models:
ASX / RVR
Variants:
2.0L
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2020

Looking for a replacement Mitsubishi engine?

Free to submit · No obligation to buy

Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.

Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.

Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 4B11 Compatible Models

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.

MIVEC solenoid malfunction
Symptoms: Check Engine light (P0011/P0021), rough idle, loss of mid-range torque, MIVEC system disabled.
Cause: Thermal degradation and oil sludge accumulation in early-design solenoid (2008–2009), reducing actuator response.
Fix: Replace with updated solenoid assembly (Part No. MD371012) per Mitsubishi TSB‑ENG‑09‑012; flush oil circuit and reset adaptation.
Oil consumption in high-mileage units
Symptoms: Low oil level between services, blue exhaust smoke under deceleration, fouled spark plugs.
Cause: Wear of piston rings or valve stem seals after 150,000 km, exacerbated by extended oil intervals or high-RPM use.
Fix: Inspect compression and leak-down; replace rings/seals if wear confirmed. Maintain strict 10,000 km oil changes with correct spec.
Carbon buildup on intake valves
Symptoms: Hesitation, misfires, reduced fuel economy, failed emissions test.
Cause: Port fuel injection design allows oil vapour from PCV to deposit on valves over time, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical intake cleaning per OEM procedure; inspect and replace PCV valve if stuck open.
Timing chain tensioner wear (rare)
Symptoms: Faint rattle on cold start (front of engine), timing correlation codes.
Cause: Gradual wear of hydraulic tensioner after 200,000 km; not a common failure but documented in fleet vehicles.
Fix: Replace tensioner and guide rails with OEM kit; verify chain stretch and sprocket condition during service.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2008–2016) and EU national vehicle inspection data (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 4B11 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

Yes, with proper maintenance. The 4B11 is robust and non-interference, with strong internals. Early Evolution X models (2008–2009) had MIVEC solenoid issues, resolved by 2010. Regular oil changes with 5W-30 API SN oil and avoiding excessive idling ensure longevity beyond 250,000 km.

MIVEC solenoid failure (early Evo X), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, carbon buildup on intake valves, and rare timing tensioner wear. Most issues are preventable with correct oil and service intervals. Documented in Mitsubishi TSBs ENG‑09‑012 and ECU‑11‑003.

The 4B11 powered the Lancer (2007–2017), Lancer Evolution X (2007–2016), Outlander (2007–2012), and ASX/RVR (2010–2015). All are 2.0L petrol variants. Note: the turbocharged 4B11T is a derivative but shares core architecture. No cross-manufacturer licensing occurred.

Yes, especially the naturally aspirated version. Bolt-on cams, headers, and ECU remaps can yield +15–25 kW. The block is strong, but head gasket and fuel system upgrades are recommended beyond 150 kW. Tuning should use 98 RON fuel and retain MIVEC functionality for drivability.

In a Lancer 2.0L (121 kW), expect ~8.2 L/100km city and ~5.9 L/100km highway, or ~38 mpg UK combined. Outlander models average 9.0 L/100km due to weight. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 35–42 mpg UK. Economy suffers if MIVEC is disabled or carbon buildup occurs.

No. The 4B11 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons will not contact valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This enhances long-term reliability, though timing components should still be inspected at high mileage.

Mitsubishi specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards. ACEA A5/B5 is acceptable. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months. Correct oil is critical for MIVEC solenoid function and preventing sludge in high-heat applications.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

About this reference

EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.

Sourcing Policy

Source selection

Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.

Evidence and uncertainty

A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.

Transparency in gaps

A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

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.

Methodology

Data compilation

Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.

Corrections & Submissions

Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.

Copyright & Legal

Copyright and permissions

Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

Privacy and cookies

Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

Ownership and commercial services

EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.

Funding model

Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.

Verification and identification note

Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.