Engine Code

MITSUBISHI 3A93 engine (2013–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 3A93 is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. In standard form it delivers 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) with torque figures between 106–114 Nm, optimized for urban efficiency and low emissions.

Fitted to models such as the Mirage (HA/HC), Space Star, and Attrage, the 3A93 was engineered for compact city driving with an emphasis on fuel economy, low CO₂ output, and smooth idle refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, lean‑burn strategies, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 5 and Euro 6 compliance depending on model year and market.

One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early-build units (2013–2015), highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-ME-15-003. This issue stems from piston ring land design tolerances allowing oil migration into the combustion chamber under high-load conditions. From 2016 onward, Mitsubishi implemented revised piston ring packs and cylinder honing processes to mitigate this.

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2023 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/7890).

3A93 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 3A93 is a 1,198 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact city cars (2013–2023). It combines DOHC with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and frugal fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,198 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded)
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke75.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output59–66 kW (80–90 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque106–114 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 5 (2013–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2023)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC
Oil typeMitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 0W‑20 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5)
Dry weight89 kg
Practical Implications

The MIVEC system provides responsive throttle response and improved idle stability but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent premature wear in the VVT phaser. Mitsubishi-spec 0W-20 oil is critical due to its low viscosity aiding cold-start lubrication of the chain-driven DOHC system. Extended high-RPM operation in hot climates may accelerate oil degradation; owners in such regions should consider 7,500 km intervals. Early 2013–2015 engines should be inspected for oil consumption per TSB-ME-15-003; post-2016 units feature improved piston ring sealing. The absence of a turbo simplifies maintenance but limits high-load durability under sustained motorway use.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 0W-20 meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-LU-14-001).

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2013–2015 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/7890). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2016–2023 builds in EU markets.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by ECU calibration and regional emissions tuning (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-3A93-03).

Primary Sources

Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-3A93-01, ME-3A93-02, TSB-ME-15-003

JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/7890)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power

3A93 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 3A93 was used across Mitsubishi's HA/HC global small-car platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight mounts in the Mirage hatchback and revised intake manifolds in the Attrage sedan-and from 2016 the facelifted Space Star adopted updated piston rings and ECU maps, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2023
Models:
Mirage (HA/HC)
Variants:
1.2 GLX, 1.2 GLS
View Source
Mitsubishi Group PT-2022
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2023
Models:
Space Star
Variants:
1.2 Invite, 1.2 Intense
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. ME-3A93-01
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2013–2020
Models:
Attrage
Variants:
1.2 GLX, 1.2 GLS
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-3A93-03
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Mitsubishi TIS ME-3A93-02). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('3' for 1.2L 3A93). Early models (2013–2015) have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2016 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from 3A92: 3A93 has three cylinders and MIVEC; 3A92 is non-MIVEC and used only in select ASEAN markets. Service parts for piston rings and oil control rings differ pre/post 2016 per TSB-ME-15-003.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-3A93-02

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover adjacent to crank pulley (Mitsubishi TIS ME-3A93-02).

Visual Cues:

  • 2013–2015: Silver valve cover, black intake
  • 2016–2023: All-black valve cover and intake
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Mitsubishi TSB-ME-15-003

Piston Rings:

Pre-2016 piston ring kits (Part No. MD613512) are incompatible with post-2016 blocks due to revised ring land geometry.

E C U Calibration:

ECU part numbers differ between Euro 5 and Euro 6 variants; flashing requires J2534-compliant tool per TIS.

Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 3A93

The 3A93's primary reliability risk is oil consumption in early builds (2013–2015), with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-RPM usage. Mitsubishi internal data cited in TSB-ME-15-003 noted measurable oil use (>0.5 L/1,000 km) in a subset of pre-2016 engines, while EU type-approval testing confirmed emissions drift in affected units. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase ring coking, making oil grade and interval adherence critical.

Excessive oil consumption (early builds)
Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, blue exhaust smoke under acceleration, oil residue on spark plugs.
Cause: Tight piston ring land tolerances and inadequate oil control in pre-2016 ring design allow oil migration during high-load operation.
Fix: Install updated piston ring set (Part No. MD613513) and hone cylinder bores per TSB-ME-15-003; verify PCV system function.
VVT actuator rattle or sluggish response
Symptoms: Cold-start ticking, reduced low-end torque, P0011/P0016 DTCs.
Cause: Sludge accumulation in oil passages restricts MIVEC phaser movement; exacerbated by extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity.
Fix: Flush oil galleries, replace actuator if worn, and use only 0W-20 oil meeting Mitsubishi spec; reset VVT adaptation after repair.
Intake manifold vacuum leaks
Symptoms: Rough idle, lean codes (P0171), hesitation on throttle tip-in.
Cause: Age-induced cracking in plastic intake manifold gasket surfaces, especially near EGR port (where fitted) or throttle body.
Fix: Replace intake manifold gasket and inspect manifold for warping; torque to spec and perform idle relearn procedure.
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 (2015-2020) and JAMA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about MITSUBISHI 3A93

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 3A93.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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