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 e…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 4A90 is generally reliable with proper maintenance. Early models (2009–2012) had MIVEC solenoid issues, but post-2013 revisions improved durability. Chain-driven timing and lack of turbo reduce major failure risks. Using correct 5W-30 oil and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.
Top issues include MIVEC solenoid clogging, intake runner sticking due to carbon, valve cover oil leaks, and plastic coolant flange cracking. These are documented in Mitsubishi TSB-ME-09-023 and owner service records. Most are preventable with regular oil changes and coolant inspections.
The 4A90 powered the Colt (2009–2017), ASX (2010–2016), and Lancer (2010–2017) in 1.4L variants. It was also used by Smart in the Forfour (2014–2017) as a co-developed unit with Daimler. All applications are Euro 5 compliant and feature MIVEC variable valve timing.
Limited tuning potential due to naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps yield modest gains (+5–8 kW) but require high-octane fuel. Forced induction is possible but demands internal upgrades. Most owners prioritize reliability over power; stage 1 tuning is uncommon and not supported by Mitsubishi.
Efficient for its class. In a Colt 1.4 Invite, expect ~6.8 L/100km (city) and ~4.9 L/100km (highway), or ~48 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 45–50 mpg (UK), depending on condition and driving style. MIVEC helps optimize low-load efficiency.
Yes. The 4A90 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (extremely rare due to robust design), piston-to-valve contact would cause severe internal damage. However, the chain is maintenance-free and designed to last the engine’s lifetime under normal conditions.
Mitsubishi specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF-04 standards. Always use low-SAPS oil designed for MIVEC systems. Change every 15,000 km or 12 months to prevent solenoid clogging and ensure valve train protection.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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