The Mitsubishi 4A90 is a 1,332 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. In standard form it delivers 70–77 kW (95–105 PS) and 125–130 Nm of torque, balancing urban agility with fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Colt, ASX, and Lancer in European and Asian markets—including the 1.4 GLX and 1.4 Invite—the 4A90 was engineered for compact-car efficiency and responsive low‑rpm drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the MIVEC actuator solenoid, which can trigger limp‑mode or rough idle. This issue, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑09‑023, is often linked to oil contamination or extended service intervals. From 2013 onward, Mitsubishi introduced revised solenoid seals and updated ECU calibration to mitigate the fault.
All production years 2009–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mitsubishi 4A90 is a 1,332 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact vehicles (2009–2017). It combines MIVEC variable valve timing with a lightweight aluminum block to deliver responsive low‑rpm performance and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with low CO₂ output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 75.4 mm | |
| Power output | 70–77 kW (95–105 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 125–130 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi MTF‑04 or ACEA A5/B5 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 96 kg |
The MIVEC system provides responsive throttle feel and improved low-end torque but requires clean oil to prevent solenoid clogging. Use of ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF-04 5W-30 oil is critical to maintain hydraulic actuator function. Extended oil change intervals (>15,000 km) increase risk of MIVEC solenoid failure per TSB-ME-09-023. The engine’s aluminum block and chain-driven camshafts reduce maintenance needs, but coolant condition must be monitored to prevent corrosion in the water jacket. No turbo means fewer heat-related failures, but carbon buildup on intake valves can occur over time due to port injection.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF-04 (5W-30) specification (Mitsubishi TSB-ME-09-023).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2017 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-A90-01).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-A90-01, M12-4501, TSB-ME-09-023
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4A90 was used across Mitsubishi's Colt, ASX, and Lancer platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with Daimler AG for shared use in Smart and Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176). This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the ASX and modified intake manifolds in the Colt Plus—and from 2013 the updated ECU calibration improved cold-start emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Smart to use a detuned 4A90 variant (70 kW) in the Forfour. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head flange (Mitsubishi TIS ME-A90-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('9' for 4A9x series). All 4A90 units feature black plastic valve covers with 'MIVEC' embossed. Critical differentiation from 4A91: 4A90 has 1,332 cc displacement (vs. 1,499 cc) and lower power output. ECU part number prefix 'MR577' confirms 4A90 application. Service parts for MIVEC solenoid require verification of production date—units before 06/2013 use older seal design (Mitsubishi TSB-ME-09-023).
The 4A90's primary reliability risk is MIVEC solenoid failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines required solenoid replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and use of non-spec oil increase solenoid clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4A90.
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