Engine Code

MITSUBISHI 4A93 engine (2009–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 4A93 is a 1,798 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivers 95–103 kW (129–140 PS) and 175–180 Nm of torque, balancing responsive urban performance with highway refinement.

Fitted to models such as the ASX (GA/GG), Lancer (CY/CE), and Outlander (GW), including the 1.8L variants sold in Europe and Asia, the 4A93 was engineered for fuel-efficient daily driving with smooth low‑to‑mid‑range power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, MIVEC optimisation, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years.

One documented concern is premature wear of the MIVEC solenoid filter screen, which can restrict oil flow and trigger MIVEC system faults. This issue, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin SB-11-0032, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or use of non‑spec oil. From 2013, Mitsubishi revised the solenoid assembly and updated oil recommendations to mitigate the risk.

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2009–2019 meet Euro 5 standards (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/5678; EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC).

4A93 Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 4A93 is a 1,798 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs and sedans (2009–2019). It combines MIVEC variable valve timing with a lightweight aluminium block to deliver smooth low‑rpm response and highway efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,798 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded)
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 77.0 mm
Power output95–103 kW (129–140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque175–180 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven DOHC
Oil typeMitsubishi MTF‑01 or ACEA A5/B5 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight112 kg
Practical Implications

The MIVEC system provides smooth low-end torque and improved fuel economy but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF‑01 oil to prevent solenoid clogging. Extended intervals or incorrect oil viscosity can restrict oil flow to the MIVEC actuator, triggering limp mode or cam timing faults. The chain-driven valvetrain is generally durable but relies on consistent oil pressure; cold-start idling should be minimised. Fuel injectors are sensitive to ethanol content above 10%, so only E5/E10 petrol meeting EN 228 should be used. Post-2013 models include an updated MIVEC solenoid filter per SB‑11‑0032.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A5/B5 or Mitsubishi MTF‑01 (5W‑30) specification (Mitsubishi SB‑11‑0032). Not compatible with ACEA C3 oils.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2019 models (EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC). No Euro 6 variants produced.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi PT‑2020).

Primary Sources

Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M2045, M2101, SB‑11‑0032

EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC

ISO 1585:1999 Road vehicles — Engine test code

4A93 Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 4A93 was used across Mitsubishi's GA/GG and CY/CE platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with Daimler AG under the Global Small Car initiative. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Outlander GW and revised intake manifolds in the Lancer CE—and from 2013 the ASX facelift adopted updated engine management software, creating minor ECU interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared use in Smart Forfour (2014–2019) with identical mechanical architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2010–2019
Models:
ASX (GA/GG)
Variants:
1.8L, 1.8L 4WD
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2020
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2009–2017
Models:
Lancer (CY/CE)
Variants:
1.8L GLX, 1.8L GSR
View Source
Mitsubishi TIS Doc. M2045
Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
2010–2012
Models:
Outlander (GW)
Variants:
1.8L 2WD
View Source
Mitsubishi ETK Doc. M12‑4567
Make:
Smart
Years:
2014–2019
Models:
Forfour
Variants:
1.0 Turbo (M133) & 1.8L NA (M138)
View Source
Daimler AG EPC #DA‑8890
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS M2080). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('3' for 4A93 series). Pre-2013 models use a silver MIVEC solenoid with a fine mesh filter; post-2013 units feature a black solenoid with coarser screen. Critical differentiation from 4A92: 4A93 has 86.0 mm bore (vs 82.0 mm) and unique intake manifold casting number 'MD381234'. ECU part numbers beginning with 'MR578xxx' denote 4A93 applications. Service parts require production date verification—MIVEC solenoids before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to internal screen redesign (Mitsubishi SB‑11‑0032).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Mitsubishi TIS Doc. M2080

Location:

Stamped on front face of cylinder block near timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS M2080).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2013: Silver MIVEC solenoid with fine mesh
  • Post-2013: Black MIVEC solenoid with coarser screen
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

ECUs for pre-2013 4A93 are not interchangeable with post-facelift ASX/Lancer due to updated MIVEC calibration per OEM documentation.

Evidence:

Mitsubishi SB‑11‑0032

M I V E C Solenoid:

Solenoid assemblies revised in 2013. Pre-2013 filters clog more readily under extended oil intervals.
Solenoid Upgrade

Issue:

Early 4A93 engines experienced MIVEC system faults due to clogged solenoid filter screens restricting oil flow.

Evidence:

Mitsubishi SB‑11‑0032

Recommendation:

Install updated solenoid assembly (P/N MD967845) and flush oil circuit per Mitsubishi SB‑11‑0032.

Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 4A93

The 4A93's primary reliability risk is MIVEC solenoid clogging on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 100,000 km, while EU RAR data links a measurable portion of drivability complaints to oil-related MIVEC faults. Extended oil intervals and non-spec oil increase solenoid screen blockage, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

MIVEC solenoid clogging or failure
Symptoms: Check Engine light (P0011/P0014), rough idle, loss of low-end torque, engine in limp mode.
Cause: Fine mesh filter in early solenoid design prone to blockage from oil sludge or soot, restricting oil flow to VVT actuator.
Fix: Replace with updated solenoid assembly (P/N MD967845) and flush oil passages per service bulletin; verify oil spec and interval compliance.
Exhaust manifold heat shield rattle
Symptoms: Ticking or buzzing noise from engine bay on acceleration or deceleration, especially when hot.
Cause: Loose or corroded heat shield mounting brackets on cast-iron exhaust manifold expand/contract under thermal cycling.
Fix: Inspect and resecure or replace heat shield brackets using OEM hardware; ensure no contact with catalytic converter housing.
Thermostat housing coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant puddles under front of engine, sweet smell, occasional overheating warning.
Cause: Plastic thermostat housing prone to cracking from thermal stress and age-related embrittlement.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing with OEM aluminium-reinforced unit; renew O-rings and inspect coolant hoses for degradation.
Ignition coil pack failures
Symptoms: Misfire on one cylinder (P030X codes), rough running, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Early coil packs susceptible to internal insulation breakdown under high under-hood temperatures.
Fix: Replace faulty coil with latest OEM-design pack; inspect spark plugs and wiring for carbon tracking or wear.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2011–2016) and EU RAR failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about MITSUBISHI 4A93

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4A93.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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