Mitsubishi 4B40 Engine (2017–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 4B40 is a 1,499 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. 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 delivers 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) with torque figures between 250–260 Nm, optimized for responsive urban and highway performance.

Fitted to models such as the Eclipse Cross, ASX (2019+), and Outlander (2021+…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2017–2019 meet Euro 6d-Temp standards; 2020–2023 models meet Euro 6d depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/8912).

Mitsubishi 4B40 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 4B40 is a 1,499 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs and crossovers (2017–2023). It combines gasoline direct injection (GDI) with twin-scroll turbocharging and dual MIVEC to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Temp and Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,499 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON)
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged (twin-scroll)
Bore × stroke
75.0 mm × 84.8 mm
Power output
110–125 kW (150–170 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque
250–260 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Gasoline direct injection (GDI), 200 bar
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-Temp (2017–2019); Euro 6d (2020–2023)
Compression ratio
10.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Twin-scroll IHI turbo with electronic wastegate
Timing system
Chain-driven DOHC with dual MIVEC
Oil type
Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 0W‑20 (API SP/ILSAC GF-6)
Dry weight
118 kg

Mitsubishi 4B40 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 4B40 was used across Mitsubishi's ZC/ZE global SUV platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Eclipse Cross and revised cooling ducts in the Outlander-and from 2020 the facelifted ASX adopted updated EGR calibration and PCV routing, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2017–2023
Models:
Eclipse Cross
Variants:
1.5T MIVEC, 1.5T MIVEC S-AWC
View Source
Mitsubishi Group PT-2022
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
ASX
Variants:
1.5T MIVEC, 1.5T MIVEC 4WD
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. ME-4B40-01
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2021–2023
Models:
Outlander
Variants:
1.5T MIVEC, 1.5T MIVEC PHEV (hybrid assist)
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-4B40-04

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Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 4B40 Compatible Models

The 4B40's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to its gasoline direct injection (GDI) architecture, with elevated incidence in short-trip or urban driving. Mitsubishi internal data cited in TSB-ME-18-007 noted measurable power loss and misfires in engines exceeding 80,000 km without intake cleaning, while EU type-approval testing confirmed emissions drift in affected units. Extended idling and frequent cold starts increase deposit formation, making oil grade and maintenance adherence critical.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires on cold start, reduced fuel economy, P0300 random misfire codes.
Cause: GDI system deposits carbon on intake valves due to lack of fuel detergent contact; exacerbated by EGR recirculation and short-trip driving.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell blasting or chemical intake cleaning; install updated PCV hose and EGR map per TSB-ME-18-007 if applicable.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle or sticking
Symptoms: Whistling or fluttering under boost, boost pressure fluctuations, P2262/P0045 DTCs.
Cause: Carbon accumulation in wastegate linkage or actuator diaphragm fatigue under high thermal cycling.
Fix: Inspect and clean wastegate mechanism; replace turbo assembly if actuator is non-functional. Verify boost control solenoid operation.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, P0087 (fuel rail pressure too low), fuel pressure warning.
Cause: Premature wear in HPFP cam follower or plunger due to marginal lubrication from low-sulfur fuel or incorrect oil viscosity.
Fix: Replace HPFP and cam follower; ensure use of correct 0W-20 oil and 95+ RON fuel to prevent recurrence.
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 (2018–2022) and JAMA failure statistics (2019–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 4B40 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The 4B40 is generally reliable when maintained properly, though GDI-related carbon buildup on intake valves is common after 80,000 km. Post-2020 revisions reduced this risk. Using correct 0W-20 oil, 95+ RON fuel, and periodic intake cleaning ensures longevity beyond 200,000 km.

Key issues include intake valve carbon buildup (due to GDI), turbo wastegate sticking, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and timing chain tensioner wear. All are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins and often linked to fuel quality, oil viscosity, or driving patterns.

The 4B40 powers the Eclipse Cross (2017–2023), ASX (2019–2023), and Outlander (2021–2023) globally. It was not licensed to other manufacturers and is exclusive to Mitsubishi’s SUV lineup.

Modest gains are possible via ECU remap (+10–15 kW), leveraging the robust twin-scroll turbo and forged internals. Forced induction upgrades are unnecessary; focus on drivability and torque curve refinement. Always maintain proper fuel quality and cooling.

Efficient for a turbocharged 1.5L. In an Eclipse Cross 1.5T, expect ~7.2 L/100km (city) and ~5.8 L/100km (highway), or 39–48 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 42–46 mpg UK with conservative driving.

Yes. The 4B40 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 SP/ILSAC GF-6 and Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil standards. Always use this grade to ensure proper MIVEC, turbo, and chain lubrication, especially in hot climates.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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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

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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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