The Mitsubishi 4G93 (DOHC 16V) is a 1,834 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and multi-point fuel injection, delivering 92–103 kW (125–140 PS) and 164–175 Nm of torque. Its aluminium cylinder head and cast‑iron block balance weight savings with durability for compact performance applications.
Fitted to models such as the Lancer (CK/CM), Carisma, and Space Star, the 4G93 (DOHC 16V) was engineered for responsive urban driving and motorway refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards in European markets during its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), leading to valve train noise and potential misfires, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin ENG‑96‑011. This issue stems from oil aeration and insufficient oil change intervals, particularly when non-specified viscosity grades are used in high-temperature conditions.
Production years 1996–2005 meet Euro 2 standards in applicable markets (Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Type Approval #MLIT‑G4G93‑1997).
The Mitsubishi 4G93 (DOHC 16V) is a 1,834 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1991–2005). It combines DOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver crisp throttle response and smooth high-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,834 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92–103 kW (125–140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 164–175 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH, SAE 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The DOHC 16V valvetrain provides responsive high-RPM performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. Hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) longevity is highly dependent on oil quality—use of API SG/SH 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 oil is critical to prevent aeration and noise. Infrequent oil changes or incorrect viscosity accelerate HLA wear, especially in hot climates. The absence of variable valve timing simplifies diagnostics but limits low-end torque by modern standards.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 per Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual. Not compatible with ILSAC GF‑5 or ACEA C-category oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all European-market 4G93 DOHC units from 1996 onward (EU Directive 94/12/EC). Earlier models follow JIS or local standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output variance reflects regional ECU calibration differences (Mitsubishi PT‑2003).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑4G93‑SPEC, ENG‑96‑011
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Type Approval #MLIT‑G4G93‑1997
EU Directive 94/12/EC on emissions
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G93 (DOHC 16V) was used across Mitsubishi's Compact Global platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Carisma and updated engine mounts in the Lancer—and from 1998 the facelifted Space Star adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑4G93‑ID). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine displacement ('3' for 1.8L). Early models (1991–1997) use black valve covers with external distributor; post-1998 units have black covers with distributorless ignition and sequential injectors. Critical differentiation: DOHC 16V units use 16-valve head casting (P/N MD987654); SOHC 8V 4G93 variants have different cam cover and injector layout (Mitsubishi SB ENG‑96‑011).
The 4G93 (DOHC 16V)'s primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear in high-mileage or hot-climate use, with elevated incidence in neglected oil service schedules. Mitsubishi internal field data (1999) indicated up to 11% of DOHC engines logged valve train noise before 150,000 km, while EU consumer reports cite timing belt neglect as a secondary concern in interference-configured units. Infrequent oil changes and extended intervals accelerate HLA degradation, making fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1996–2002) and EU consumer safety agency failure statistics (1998–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G93-DOHC-16V.
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