The Mitsubishi 4G63-T (ECI) is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and Mitsubishi’s Electronically Controlled Injection (ECI) fuel system. In standard form it delivered 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) and torque figures between 230–255 Nm, offering robust low‑end response for its era.
Fitted to performance variants such as the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 (E39A), Lancer EX 2000 Turbo, and early Pajero/Montero, the 4G63-T (ECI) was engineered for rally‑inspired durability and accessible turbocharged performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through ECI fuel metering, oxygen sensor feedback, and a three‑way catalytic converter, enabling compliance with Japanese Ministry of Transport (JIS D 1001) and early Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust manifold due to thermal fatigue in high‑boost applications, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Bulletin TB‑88‑11‑063. This issue stems from material limitations in the original cast‑iron manifold under repeated heat cycles. From 1990, revised manifold castings with thicker walls and improved runner geometry were introduced across all applications.
Production years 1987–1989 meet JIS D 1001 standards; 1990–1992 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G63T).
The Mitsubishi 4G63-T (ECI) is a 1,997 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and early SUVs (1987–1992). It combines SOHC valvetrain with Electronically Controlled Injection and a small-frame turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and rally‑derived robustness. Designed to meet Japanese JIS and later Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability for its generation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 230–255 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mitsubishi ECI (Electronically Controlled Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | JIS D 1001 (1987–1989); Euro 1 (1990–1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD05-14B (depending on application) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The SOHC ECI turbo design provides strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing wear and sludge buildup. API SG/SH (10W-40) oil is critical due to its shear stability under boost conditions. Extended intervals or low-detergent oils accelerate turbo shaft wear and exhaust manifold cracking. Post-1990 engines feature reinforced manifolds; pre-1990 units should be inspected per Mitsubishi TB‑88‑11‑063. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference damage.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (10W-40) specification (Mitsubishi TB‑88‑11‑063). ACEA A3/B3 oils are acceptable alternatives.
Emissions: JIS D 1001 certification applies to 1987–1989 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G63T). Euro 1 compliance confirmed for 1990–1992 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Higher-output variants require premium unleaded (RON 95+) for knock prevention (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. TURBO‑4G63‑ECI).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TURBO‑4G63‑ECI, TIMING‑4G63T‑ECI, FUEL‑4G63T‑ECI
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/4G63T)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4G63-T (ECI) was used across Mitsubishi's performance and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Galant VR-4 and revised oil cooler routing in the Pajero—and from 1990 the facelifted Lancer EX adopted updated exhaust manifolds, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the distributor (Mitsubishi TIS TURBO‑4G63‑ECI). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate engine family ('4G' for 4G63 series). Early engines (1987–1989) have cast-iron exhaust manifolds with thin walls; post-1990 units use reinforced manifolds with thicker casting. Critical differentiation from DOHC 4G63: ECI version has SOHC, 8 valves, and ECI fuel rail (not MPI). Service parts require production date verification—exhaust manifold kits for engines before 01/1990 are incompatible with later units due to runner redesign (Mitsubishi TB‑88‑11‑063).
The 4G63-T (ECI)'s primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold cracking in early builds (1987–1989), with elevated incidence in high-boost or rally-style use. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 1991 indicated up to 14% of pre-1990 engines exhibited manifold cracks before 150,000 km, while JAMA durability testing confirmed revised manifolds reduced this to <3% in post-1990 units. Extended oil change intervals and aggressive driving accelerate thermal stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1988–1992) and JAMA durability failure statistics (1989–1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G63-T-ECI.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MITSUBISHI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MITSUBISHI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMITSUBISHI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
