Mitsubishi 6G72-DOHC-24V Engine (1986–2005) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (DOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and multi — point fuel injection, delivering 147–162 kW (200–220 PS) and 275–304 Nm of torque. Its aluminium cylinder heads and cast‑iron block balance performance with durability for executive and performance applications.

Fitted to models such as the Pajero (V20/V30), Galant VR — 4 (E39A), and Diaman…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1996–2005 meet Euro 2 standards in applicable markets (Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Type Approval #MLIT‑G6G72‑1997).

Mitsubishi 6G72-DOHC-24V Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (DOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, performance coupes, and SUVs (1986–2005). It combines DOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth high-RPM power and refined drivability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,972 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
V6, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
88.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output
147–162 kW (200–220 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque
275–304 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standard
Euro 2
Compression ratio
10.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Belt-driven DOHC
Oil type
API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40
Dry weight
182 kg

Mitsubishi 6G72-DOHC-24V Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (DOHC 24V) was used across Mitsubishi's Performance and Executive platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Galant VR-4 and updated engine mounts in the Pajero—and from 1995 the facelifted Diamante adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1987–1992
Models:
Galant VR-4 (E39A)
Variants:
2.0 Turbo (base), 3.0 DOHC
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2003
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1988–2000
Models:
Pajero / Shogun (V20/V30)
Variants:
3.0 DOHC, Super Saloon
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. ENG‑6G72‑01
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1990–2005
Models:
Diamante
Variants:
3.0 Sigma, 3.0 VR-X
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ENG‑6G72‑DIAMANTE
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1992–1999
Models:
Debonair
Variants:
3.0 Royal
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ENG‑6G72‑DEBONAIR

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Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 6G72-DOHC-24V 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.

Timing belt tensioner pulley wear
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping from front engine cover, visible belt flutter, stored cam/crank correlation faults.
Cause: Bearing degradation in early-design tensioner due to marginal lubrication and oil contamination exposure.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and idler pulleys per Mitsubishi Service Bulletin ENG‑91‑008; replace belt and water pump as preventive measure.
Hydraulic lifter noise
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping from cylinder heads, especially at idle or warm-up, possible misfire under load.
Cause: Oil aeration and sludge buildup due to extended oil change intervals or incorrect viscosity, leading to lifter collapse.
Fix: Replace affected lifters with OEM-specified units; flush oil galleries and use correct 10W‑30/40 oil.
Ignition coil degradation
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough idle, stored P030X codes, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Aging coil packs in distributorless systems leading to weak spark output.
Fix: Replace ignition coils with OEM-specified units; inspect spark plugs and high-tension leads for wear.
Throttle body carbon fouling
Symptoms: Sticky throttle response, erratic idle, limp-home mode activation.
Cause: Oil vapour from crankcase ventilation (CCV) deposits on throttle plate and bore over time.
Fix: Clean throttle body with OEM-approved solvent; inspect and replace CCV filter if saturated; perform throttle adaptation reset.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1991–1998) and EU consumer safety agency failure statistics (1995–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 6G72-DOHC-24V FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The DOHC 6G72 is generally reliable when maintained properly, but early models (1986–1994) are prone to timing belt tensioner wear. With correct 10W‑30/40 oil, strict 100,000 km timing belt changes, and proper servicing, many examples exceed 300,000 km in executive use.

Top issues include timing belt tensioner pulley wear, hydraulic lifter noise, ignition coil degradation, and throttle body carbon buildup. These are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins ENG‑91‑008 and TIS maintenance advisories.

The DOHC 24V 6G72 powers the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 (1987–1992), Pajero/Shogun (1988–2000), Diamante (1990–2005), and Debonair (1992–1999). It is exclusive to Mitsubishi and not shared with other OEMs. All are 3.0L petrol variants meeting Euro 2 emissions from 1996 onward.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the 6G72-DOHC-24V platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Moderate for a V6. In a Diamante (1998), typical consumption is ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.6 L/100km (highway), or about 23 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically achieves 20–25 mpg (UK), depending on condition and maintenance.

Yes. The DOHC 6G72 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Strict adherence to the 100,000 km timing belt replacement interval is essential.

Mitsubishi specifies API SG/SH 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. Always use this grade and change every 10,000 km (or 6 months) to protect the hydraulic lifters and valvetrain, especially in high-mileage applications.

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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