The Mitsubishi 4G63 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced from 1987 to 2007 in multiple configurations. The DOHC 16‑valve variant features dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and a forged rotating assembly in performance applications. In standard turbo form it delivered 147–210 kW (200–286 PS) with torque of 275–373 Nm, offering exceptional tuning headroom and rally‑proven durability.
Fitted to performance icons such as the Lancer Evolution I–IX, Galant VR-4, and Eclipse GSX, the 4G63 was engineered for high‑boost reliability and motorsport-derived response. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-point fuel injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 2 compliance for post‑1996 European models.
One documented concern is premature failure of the factory oil pump pickup tube weld in high-RPM or track-use applications. This issue, referenced in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-1999-15, can lead to oil starvation and bearing damage. From 2003 onward, Mitsubishi revised the pickup tube design with reinforced brazing and updated baffling to improve oil control under extreme conditions.
Production years 1987–1995 meet no formal EU emissions standard; 1996–2007 models meet Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4102).
The Mitsubishi 4G63 (DOHC 16V) is a 1,997 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and coupes (1987–2007). It combines forged internals with DOHC 16-valve architecture and a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver robust power and extensive tuning potential. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards from 1996 onward, it balances motorsport heritage with basic emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (fixed-geometry, mechanical wastegate) | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147–210 kW (200–286 PS) @ 6,000–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 275–373 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996–2007); pre‑1996: unregulated | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 (turbo variants) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries TD05H) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SH/SJ, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The DOHC turbo design delivers exceptional power and tuning headroom but requires vigilant oil system maintenance to prevent bearing failure. Use only API SH/SJ 10W-40 oil and change every 7,500 km under performance use. The original oil pump pickup tube (pre-2003) is prone to weld failure under high-G cornering or track use—replace with revised unit (P/N MD998877) per TSB-ENG-1999-15. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years; failure in this interference engine causes catastrophic valve/piston contact. Premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended for high-boost variants to prevent detonation.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH or SJ specification (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual 2003). ACEA A3 acceptable if SH unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies only to 1996–2007 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4102). Pre-1996 units have no EU emissions classification.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by model application and boost level (Mitsubishi PT-2006).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-4G63-A, ENG-4G63-B, ME-4G63-01
Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-1999-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4102)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G63 (DOHC 16V) was used across Mitsubishi's performance platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Lancer Evolution and modified intercooler piping in the Galant VR-4—and from 2003 the oil pump pickup tube was revised, creating minor parts incompatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-left side of the block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ENG-4G63-C). The 7th VIN digit is '6' for 4G6x series. Visual identification: black DOHC rocker cover with 'MITSUBISHI' embossed, twin cam gears visible behind timing cover. Critical differentiation from 4G64: 4G63 has 1,997 cc displacement (vs. 2,350 cc) and shorter stroke. Pre-2003 oil pump pickup uses P/N MD887766; post-2003 uses MD998877 with reinforced weld.
The 4G63 (DOHC 16V)'s primary reliability risk is oil pump pickup tube weld failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track-driven vehicles. Mitsubishi internal durability reports from 2000 indicated oil starvation events in ~7% of pre-2003 engines under extreme use before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low emissions failure rates due to robust catalytic design. Thermal stress and oil control make sump integrity and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1998–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G63-DOHC-16V.
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