The Mitsubishi 4G93 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,834 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves actuated via rocker arms, and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 83–92 kW (113–125 PS) and 160–167 Nm of torque, balancing fuel efficiency with smooth mid‑range response for compact and midsize applications.
Fitted to models such as the Lancer, Carisma, and Space Wagon, the 4G93 SOHC 16V was engineered for global reliability and emissions compliance in urban and highway driving. Emissions control was achieved through sequential fuel injection, electronic ignition timing, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), which can cause persistent valvetrain ticking and reduced valve lift. This issue, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑94‑017, is linked to oil aeration and marginal oil pressure at idle in high‑mileage engines. From 1997 onward, Mitsubishi introduced revised HLA materials and updated oil gallery routing to improve durability.
All production years 1991–2003 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2205).
The Mitsubishi 4G93 (SOHC 16V) is a 1,834 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and midsize vehicles (1991–2003). It combines a lightweight aluminum block with SOHC 16-valve valvetrain and sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with low CO₂ output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,834 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 83–92 kW (113–125 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 160–167 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft (service interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi MTF‑04 or ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The SOHC 16-valve design provides smoother breathing than 8-valve variants but relies on hydraulic lash adjusters that require clean, high-quality oil to function reliably. Use of ACEA A3/B3 or Mitsubishi MTF-04 10W-40 oil is critical to maintain HLA function and prevent valvetrain noise. Extended oil change intervals (>15,000 km) increase risk of HLA collapse per TSB-ME-94-017. The aluminum block reduces weight but demands proper coolant mixture to prevent corrosion. Timing belt replacement at 90,000 km is essential—as an interference engine, failure causes catastrophic valve damage.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 or Mitsubishi MTF-04 (10W-40) specification (Mitsubishi TSB-ME-94-017).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1991–2003 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2205).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-G93-01).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-G93-01, M09-3340, TSB-ME-94-017
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2205)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4G93 (SOHC 16V) was used across Mitsubishi's Lancer, Carisma, and Space Wagon platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with Volvo for shared use in the S40/V40. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Carisma and modified intake manifolds in the Lancer Cedia—and from 1997 the updated HLA design improved valvetrain reliability, creating minor software and hardware interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Volvo to use a detuned 4G93 variant (85 kW) in the S40. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ME-G93-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('3' for 4G93 series). All SOHC 16V units feature black plastic valve covers with '16V' embossed. Critical differentiation from DOHC 4G93: SOHC version has single camshaft and rocker arms; DOHC has dual cams and direct bucket tappets. ECU part number prefix 'MR575' confirms SOHC 16V application. HLA kits for engines before 06/1997 use older material composition and are prone to wear per Mitsubishi TSB-ME-94-017.
The 4G93 (SOHC 16V)'s primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear on pre‑1997 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 1998 indicated a notable share of early Lancer and Carisma units required HLA replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and use of non-spec oil increase HLA clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1994–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4G93-SOHC-16V.
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