The Mitsubishi 4G64 is a 2,350 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 2007. The 16‑valve (16V) variant features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) with torque of 200–210 Nm, offering smooth mid-range response and refined highway cruising.
Fitted to utility‑oriented models such as the Pajero (V20/V30), Delica Space Gear (L400), and L200/Triton (K74/K84), the 4G64 (16V) was engineered for durability in both on‑ and off‑road conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 2 compliance for post‑1996 builds in European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the balance shaft bearings due to marginal oil flow in high-mileage applications. This issue, referenced in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2001-09, can lead to bearing seizure and secondary oil pressure loss. From 2003 onward, Mitsubishi revised the balance shaft oil feed passages and updated bearing materials to improve longevity.
Production years 1988–1995 meet no formal EU emissions standard; 1996–2007 models meet Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3875).
The Mitsubishi 4G64 (16V) is a 2,350 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for SUVs and light commercial vehicles (1988–2007). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth torque delivery and reliable performance in varied conditions. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards from 1996 onward, it balances utility capability with basic emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,350 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 98.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200–210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996–2007); pre‑1996: unregulated | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SH/SJ, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides smooth power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires strict 10,000 km oil change intervals using API SH/SJ 10W-40 oil to maintain balance shaft and camshaft lubrication. Extended intervals can accelerate balance shaft bearing wear, especially in pre-2003 engines. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years—failure in this interference engine causes catastrophic valve/piston contact. Post-2003 engines feature revised oil feed passages (P/N MD889900) per TSB-ENG-2001-09 and should be used in all replacements. Use only EN 228-compliant fuel to protect injectors and catalytic converter.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH or SJ specification (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual 2002). ACEA A3 acceptable if SH unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies only to 1996–2007 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3875). Pre-1996 units have no EU emissions classification.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies slightly by model application due to exhaust tuning (Mitsubishi PT-2006).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-4G64-A, ME-4G64-01
Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2001-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3875)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G64 (16V) was used across Mitsubishi's utility platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Pajero and modified cooling in the Delica Space Gear—and from 2003 the balance shaft oil feed 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-4G64-B). The 7th VIN digit is '6' for 4G6x series. Visual identification: DOHC rocker cover with 'MITSUBISHI' embossed, twin cam gears visible behind timing cover. Critical differentiation from 4G63: 4G64 has 2,350 cc displacement (vs. 1,997 cc) and longer stroke. Pre-2003 balance shaft assemblies use P/N MD778899; post-2003 use MD889900 with improved oil feed.
The 4G64 (16V)'s primary reliability risk is balance shaft bearing wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mitsubishi internal durability reports from 2002 indicated balance shaft failures in ~6% of pre-2003 engines before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low emissions failure rates due to robust catalytic design. Extended oil intervals and thermal stress make lubrication quality and timing belt discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1999–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G64-16V.
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