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

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 05. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 24 valves, and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) and 255–280 Nm of torque, balancing smooth power delivery with refined mid‑range response for executive and utility applications.

Fitted to models such as the Pajero, Galant, and Diamante, the 6G72 SOHC 24V wa…

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1986–1995 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1996–2005 models meet Euro 2 .

Mitsubishi 6G72-SOHC-24V Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, SUVs, and coupes (1986–2005). It combines a cast‑iron block with aluminum SOHC heads and sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards in its final production phase, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,972 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
V6, SOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
88.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output
125–147 kW (170–200 PS) @ 5,000–5,500 rpm
Torque
255–280 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPI)
Emissions standard
Pre‑Euro (1986–1995); Euro 2 (1996–2005)
Compression ratio
9.0:1 – 9.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Belt‑driven camshafts (service interval: 90,000 km)
Oil type
Mitsubishi MTF‑04 or API SH/SG (SAE 10W‑40)
Dry weight
168 kg

Mitsubishi 6G72-SOHC-24V Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) was used across Mitsubishi's Pajero, Galant, and Diamante platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Pajero and modified intake manifolds in the Diamante Sigma—and from 1995 the updated HLA design improved valvetrain reliability, creating minor interchange limits for cylinder head components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1986–2000
Models:
Pajero / Shogun (V20/V30)
Variants:
3.0 V6 GLS, 3.0 V6 Super Exceed
View Source
Mitsubishi Group PT‑2006
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1987–1993
Models:
Galant (E38A/E39A)
Variants:
3.0 VR-4 (non-turbo SOHC variant)
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME‑G72‑01
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1990–1995
Models:
Diamante (A17A)
Variants:
3.0 Sigma, 3.0 LS
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. M08‑4420
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1992–1999
Models:
Debonair (A17A)
Variants:
3.0 Executive
View Source
Mitsubishi Engineering Bulletin #EB‑92‑08

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Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 6G72-SOHC-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.

Hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) failure
Symptoms: Persistent ticking or tapping from cylinder heads, especially at idle or cold start; reduced valve lift causing power loss.
Cause: Oil sludge or aeration preventing proper HLA pressurization; early material composition prone to internal leakage under thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM HLA kit per TSB-ME-91-022; flush oil circuit and reset valve clearance adaptation values via diagnostic tool.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stop, valve clatter, inability to restart.
Cause: Belt degradation due to age or oil contamination; missed 90,000 km replacement interval.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a set; confirm valve timing marks per Mitsubishi procedure.
Intake manifold runner sticking
Symptoms: Poor mid-range torque, uneven idle, intake-related DTCs (e.g., P2015).
Cause: Carbon buildup on swirl flap pivots restricting airflow modulation.
Fix: Clean or replace intake manifold assembly; verify runner actuator linkage per Mitsubishi procedure.
Valve cover oil leakage
Symptoms: Oil residue on cylinder heads, smell under hood, minor drips on timing cover.
Cause: Age-hardened rubber gasket and plastic valve cover warping over time.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket with OEM part; torque cover bolts to 8.5 Nm in sequence to prevent re-leak.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 6G72-SOHC-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 6G72 SOHC 24V is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Early models (1986–1994) had HLA wear issues, but post-1995 revisions improved durability. Its cast-iron block and lack of turbo reduce major failure risks. Using correct 10W-40 oil and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.

Top issues include hydraulic lash adjuster failure (pre-1995), timing belt breakage from missed service, intake runner sticking due to carbon, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Mitsubishi TSB-ME-91-022 and owner service records. Most are preventable with regular oil changes and coolant inspections.

The 6G72 SOHC 24V powered the Pajero/Shogun (1986–2000), Galant (1987–1993), Diamante (1990–1995), and Debonair (1992–1999) in 3.0L variants. All applications are longitudinal, with Euro 2 compliance only in 1996–2005 export models.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the 6G72-SOHC-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 Pajero 3.0 V6 GLS, expect ~12.8 L/100km (city) and ~9.2 L/100km (highway), or ~24 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 22–26 mpg (UK), depending on condition and driving style. The 24-valve head improves efficiency over 12-valve variants.

Yes. The 6G72 SOHC 24V is an interference engine. If the timing belt were to fail, piston-to-valve contact would cause severe internal damage. However, the belt is robust and designed to last 90,000 km under normal conditions—making timely replacement critical.

Mitsubishi specifies 10W-40 mineral or synthetic oil meeting API SH/SG or Mitsubishi MTF-04 standards. Always use oil designed for hydraulic lifters. Change every 15,000 km or 12 months to prevent HLA clogging and ensure valve train protection.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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