The Mitsubishi 4G63-T/C is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1989 and 2007. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 16 valves. In standard form it delivered 147–210 kW (200–286 PS) with torque figures between 275–383 Nm, optimized for high-performance driving and rally-derived durability.
Fitted to models such as the Lancer Evolution I–IX, Galant VR-4, and Eclipse GS-T/GSX, the 4G63-T/C was engineered as Mitsubishi’s flagship performance engine, combining robust internals with responsive turbocharging. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), electronic boost control, and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 2 compliance in later European variants.
One documented concern is premature failure of the factory-fitted TD05 turbocharger’s center housing rotating assembly (CHRA) under sustained high-boost conditions, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-ME-98-021. This issue stems from marginal oil cooling capacity in the stock oil feed/return system and is exacerbated by aggressive driving or extended boost hold.
Production years 1989–1995 meet pre-Euro standards; 1996–2007 models meet Euro 2 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4127).
The Mitsubishi 4G63-T/C is a 1,997 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and coupes (1989–2007). It combines a forged-steel crankshaft, cast-iron block, and DOHC 16-valve head to deliver exceptional boost response and tunability. Designed to meet pre-Euro and Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances motorsport heritage with street usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 98 RON for high-boost variants) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (single) | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147–210 kW (200–286 PS) @ 6,000–6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 275–383 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1989–1995); Euro 2 (1996–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 (Evolution); 8.0:1 (Galant VR-4 early) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD05H-16G6 (Evolution I–VI); TD05HR-16G6 (Evolution VII–IX) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 10W‑40 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The DOHC turbocharged architecture delivers exceptional throttle response and high-RPM power but demands strict adherence to 7,500–10,000 km oil change intervals using 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting API SH/SG to prevent turbo CHRA wear and rod bearing fatigue. Extended high-boost operation without cooldown increases oil coking in the turbo center housing. The belt-driven valvetrain must be replaced every 80,000 km; the 4G63-T/C is an interference engine, so belt failure causes catastrophic piston-to-valve contact. Revised oil feed restrictors and upgraded CHRA units from 2001 onward improved turbo longevity per TSB-ME-98-021.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Oil 10W-40 meeting API SH/SG (Mitsubishi Service Bulletin TSB-LU-97-005).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1996–2007 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4127). Pre-1996 variants are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Evolution IX output (210 kW) requires 98 RON fuel and S-AWC drivetrain (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-4G63TC-04).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-4G63TC-01, ME-4G63TC-02, ME-4G63TC-03, TSB-ME-98-021
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/4127)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4G63-T/C was used across Mitsubishi's CE/CP performance platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced main bearing caps in the Lancer Evolution and oil cooler integration in the Galant VR-4-and from 2001 the Eclipse GSX adopted updated turbo CHRA units, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the oil filter (Mitsubishi TIS ME-4G63TC-02). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('3' for 2.0L turbo 4G63). Early models (1989–1996) have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; Evolution I–VI use red valve covers; Evolution VII–IX use black. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated 4G63: turbo variants feature oil feed/return lines to turbo, forged internals, and lower compression. Turbo CHRA units differ pre/post 2001 per TSB-ME-98-021.
The 4G63-T/C's primary reliability risk is turbocharger CHRA failure under sustained high-boost conditions, with elevated incidence in modified or track-driven units. Mitsubishi internal data cited in TSB-ME-98-021 noted measurable turbo bearing wear in engines exceeding 80,000 km with aggressive use, while JAMA field reports confirmed oil coking as a leading cause of premature CHRA seizure. Extended boost hold and insufficient cooldown increase thermal stress, making oil quality and driving habits critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1998–2005) and JAMA failure statistics (1999–2009). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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