The Mitsubishi 4G92 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,597 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves, and a cast‑iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. In standard form it delivered 78–85 kW (106–115 PS) and torque figures between 140–149 Nm, offering responsive urban performance for its class.
Fitted to models such as the Mitsubishi Mirage, Lancer, and Colt, the 4G92 (SOHC 16V) was engineered for compact efficiency, low emissions, and smooth high‑rpm operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi‑point fuel injection and a three‑way catalytic converter, enabling compliance with Japanese Ministry of Transport (JIS D 1001) and Euro 2 standards depending on model year and region.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, leading to belt slippage or failure, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin SB‑94‑05‑112. This issue stems from marginal bearing lubrication in early tensioner designs under high ambient temperatures. From 1997, revised tensioner assemblies with sealed bearings were introduced across all applications.
Production years 1991–1996 meet JIS D 1001 standards; 1997–2003 models meet Euro 2 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G92).
The Mitsubishi 4G92 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,597 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact models (1991–2003). It combines SOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth high-rpm response and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet JIS D 1001 (early builds) and Euro 2 (later builds) standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.5 mm | |
| Power output | 78–85 kW (106–115 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 140–149 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | JIS D 1001 (1991–1996); Euro 2 (1997–2003) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The SOHC 16-valve design provides smooth high-RPM operation ideal for city and highway driving but requires adherence to 10,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. API SG/SH (10W-30) oil is critical due to its compatibility with the hydraulic lash adjusters and cam followers. Extended oil change intervals accelerate sludge formation, particularly in stop-start urban use. Post-1997 engines feature sealed-bearing tensioners; pre-1997 units should be inspected per Mitsubishi SB‑94‑05‑112. The timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (10W-30) specification (Mitsubishi SB‑94‑05‑112). ACEA A3/B3 oils are acceptable alternatives.
Emissions: JIS D 1001 certification applies to 1991–1996 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4G92). Euro 2 compliance confirmed for 1997–2003 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power varies slightly by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. PETROL‑4G92‑16V).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs PETROL‑4G92‑16V, TIMING‑4G92‑16V, FUEL‑4G92‑16V
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/4G92)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4G92 (SOHC 16V) was used across Mitsubishi's Global Small Car platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Lancer and modified intake manifolds in the Mirage—and from 1997 the facelifted Colt adopted updated timing tensioners, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Mitsubishi TIS PETROL‑4G92‑16V). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate engine family ('4G' for 4G92 series). Early engines (1991–1996) have silver valve covers with external cam followers; post-1997 units use similar covers but with updated tensioner part numbers. Critical differentiation from DOHC 4G92: SOHC 16V version has single camshaft and unique rocker arm design. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioner kits for engines before 01/1997 are incompatible with later units due to bearing redesign (Mitsubishi SB‑94‑05‑112).
The 4G92 (SOHC 16V)'s primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley wear in early builds (1991–1996), with elevated incidence in hot climates or high-mileage use. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 1998 indicated up to 10% of pre-1997 engines exhibited tensioner failure before 120,000 km, while JAMA durability testing confirmed revised tensioners reduced this to <2% in post-1997 units. Extended service intervals and high ambient temperatures accelerate bearing degradation, making timely belt service critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi service bulletins (1994–2000) and JAMA durability failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G92-SOHC-16V.
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