The Mitsubishi 4A92 is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 85–88 kW (115–120 PS) with peak torque of 154–157 Nm, offering responsive urban performance and smooth cruising.
Fitted to models such as the ASX (GA), Lancer (CY/CS), and Colt Plus (Z30), the 4A92 was engineered for fuel-efficient daily driving with refined low‑to‑mid range response. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, MIVEC optimisation, and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, allowing compliance with Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the MIVEC solenoid or oil control valve, which can trigger check-engine lights and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2013-04, is often linked to delayed oil changes or use of non-specified viscosity. From 2014 onward, Mitsubishi revised the solenoid design and updated ECU calibration to improve reliability.
All production years 2010–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mitsubishi 4A92 is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2010–2017). It combines DOHC architecture with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,590 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–88 kW (115–120 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 154–157 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SN/ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The MIVEC system provides responsive low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using API SN/ILSAC GF-5 5W-30 oil to prevent solenoid clogging and oil gallery sludge. Extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity can trigger MIVEC-related fault codes (P0011/P0016). The chain-driven valvetrain is generally robust but relies on clean oil flow; pre-2014 engines should have the updated MIVEC solenoid installed per TSB-ENG-2013-04. Fuel injectors are sensitive to ethanol content above E10—use only EN 228-compliant fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (5W-30) specification (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual 2012). ACEA A5/B5 acceptable if GF-5 unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2017 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific deviations.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies slightly by model application due to exhaust tuning (Mitsubishi PT-2015).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-4A92-A, ME-4A92-01
Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2013-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4A92 was used across Mitsubishi's Global Small platform with transverse mounting and co-developed with Daimler AG for shared architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the ASX and modified intake manifolds in the Lancer—and from 2014 the Colt Plus received ECU updates for improved cold-start emissions, creating minor calibration differences. Partnerships enabled use in Smart Forfour (2014–2019) with identical mechanicals. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-left engine block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ENG-4A92-B). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('4' for 4A9x series). All 4A92 units feature black plastic valve covers with 'MIVEC' embossed. Critical differentiation from 4A91: 4A92 has 1,590 cc displacement (vs. 1,499 cc) and higher torque output. Pre-2014 models use MIVEC solenoid P/N MD384720; post-2014 use MD384721 with improved filtration. ECU part numbers differ by model—verify via diagnostic scan before replacement.
The 4A92'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 solenoid faults in ~8% of pre-2014 engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low emissions failure rates due to robust catalytic design. Extended oil intervals and ethanol-rich fuel accelerate solenoid clogging, making oil quality and fuel specification critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4A92.
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