The Mitsubishi 4G63 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 2005. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and 16 valves (4 per cylinder). In standard form it delivers 85–103 kW (115–140 PS) and 170–184 Nm of torque, offering balanced performance for compact SUVs and sedans.
Fitted to models such as the Galant (E38/E58), Lancer (CB/CC), Pajero (V20/V30), and Space Wagon (N60/N80), the 4G63 SOHC was engineered for global durability with modest performance and reliable everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi‑point fuel injection and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing later variants to meet Euro 2 standards in European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs) in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced engines, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin SB‑96‑0044. This issue stems from marginal oil flow under extended oil change intervals or use of non‑spec oil. From 1998, Mitsubishi revised the HLA design and updated oil recommendations to mitigate the risk.
Production years 1987–1992 meet no formal EU emissions standard; 1993–1996 models meet Euro 1; 1997–2005 variants meet Euro 2 (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2876; EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC).
The Mitsubishi 4G63 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for sedans, SUVs, and MPVs (1987–2005). It combines a durable cast‑iron block with SOHC 16‑valve architecture to deliver smooth mid‑range power and reliable urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 1–2 standards in later production, it balances mechanical simplicity with basic emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–103 kW (115–140 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 170–184 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1993–1996); Euro 2 (1997–2005) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi MTF‑01 or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑30/10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The SOHC 16-valve design provides smoother breathing than 8-valve predecessors but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km timing belt intervals to prevent interference damage. Hydraulic lash adjusters are sensitive to oil quality—extended intervals or incorrect viscosity can cause ticking noises and valve train wear. Oil changes every 7,500 km with ACEA A2 or Mitsubishi MTF‑01 oil are essential, especially in stop-start urban use. The belt-driven valvetrain is generally durable but relies on consistent oil pressure; cold-start revving should be minimised. Fuel injectors are compatible with E5/E10 petrol meeting EN 228.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A2 or Mitsubishi MTF‑01 (10W‑30/10W‑40) specification (Mitsubishi SB‑96‑0044). Not compatible with ACEA C-class low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1993–1996 models; Euro 2 applies to 1997–2005 builds (EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC). Pre-1993 variants have no EU emissions certification.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi PT‑2019).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M1063, M1095, SB‑96‑0044
EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC
ISO 1585:1999 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G63 (SOHC 16V) was used across Mitsubishi's E38/E58, CB/CC, and V20/V30 platforms with longitudinal or transverse mounting depending on application. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Pajero V30 for off‑road clearance and revised intake manifolds in the Galant E58—and from 1998 the HLA upgrade created minor service part interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared use in Hyundai Sonata and Dodge Caravan with identical mechanical architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS M1070). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('3' for 4G63 series). All SOHC 16V units feature a single camshaft with 16-valve rocker arms and no turbocharger; differentiate from DOHC 4G63 by valve cover shape and cam drive layout. Critical differentiation from 4G64: 4G63 has 85.0 mm bore (vs 87.0 mm) and unique intake manifold casting number 'MD224567'. Service parts require production date verification—HLAs before 05/1998 use a different internal bleed design prone to clogging (Mitsubishi SB‑96‑0044).
The 4G63 (SOHC 16V)'s primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 1997 indicated a notable share of pre‑1998 engines requiring HLA replacement before 150,000 km, while EU RAR data links a measurable portion of valve train noise complaints to oil-related HLA faults. Extended oil intervals and non-spec oil increase clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1996–2002) and EU RAR failure statistics (2000–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G63-SOHC-16V.
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