The Mitsubishi 4HN is a 3,200 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2003 and 2015. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard form it delivers 118–130 kW (160–177 PS) and 343–380 Nm of torque, offering strong low‑end pulling power for light commercial and passenger applications.
Fitted to models such as the Canter (FE/FG), L300 (L400 facelift), and Fuso Rosa, the 4HN was engineere…
Production years 2003–2006 meet Euro 3 standards; 2007–2015 variants meet Euro 4 (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4521; EU Certificate of Conformity 2007/46/EC).
The Mitsubishi 4HN is a 3,200 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles and minibuses (2003–2015). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with DOHC 16‑valve architecture and common‑rail injection to deliver high torque at low rpm and reliable fleet performance. Designed to meet Euro 3–4 standards, it balances commercial durability with regulated emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,200 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged with variable geometry (VGT) | |
Bore × stroke | 100.0 mm × 102.0 mm | |
Power output | 118–130 kW (160–177 PS) @ 3,200–3,500 rpm | |
Torque | 343–380 Nm @ 1,600–2,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2003–2006); Euro 4 (2007–2015) | |
Compression ratio | 17.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD05H VGT (variable geometry) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
Oil type | API CJ-4 or ACEA E7 (SAE 10W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 295 kg |
The Mitsubishi 4HN was used across Mitsubishi Fuso's FE/FG and Rosa platforms with longitudinal mounting and co-developed for global commercial markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Canter FE for urban durability and revised cooling in the Rosa LPG hybrid variants—and from 2008 the fuel filter upgrade created minor service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 4HN's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure due to water-contaminated diesel, with elevated incidence in regions with poor fuel quality or high biodiesel usage. Mitsubishi Fuso internal data from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre‑2008 engines requiring pump replacement before 150,000 km, while EU RAR data links a measurable portion of drivability complaints to fuel system faults. Extended use of B10+ biodiesel and infrequent filter drainage increase pump wear, making fuel quality and filtration critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi Fuso technical bulletins (2007–2013) and EU RAR failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 4HN is robust in commercial use but demands strict fuel quality control. Early models (2003–2007) had fuel pump issues, but post-2008 revisions with water-in-fuel sensors improved durability. Regular oil changes with ACEA E7 oil and using B5 or lower biodiesel greatly enhance longevity.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump seizure from water-contaminated fuel, VGT actuator sticking, EGR cooler leaks, and timing chain guide wear. These are documented in Mitsubishi Fuso service bulletins SB‑07‑0024 and TIS updates.
The 3.2L diesel appeared in the Canter (2003–2015), Delica L300 facelift (2004–2007), and Fuso Rosa (2005–2015). It was also used by Nissan in the Atlas F24 (2007–2012) under OEM licensing. Later models meet Euro 4 standards.
Modest gains are possible. ECU remaps typically yield +15–20 kW by optimising rail pressure and VGT timing. Forced induction upgrades are unnecessary due to existing VGT. Most fleet operators prioritise reliability over power.
Efficient for its displacement. In a Canter 3.5T, expect ~9.8 L/100km (urban) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or about 29 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 26–32 mpg (UK), depending on load and terrain.
Yes. The 4HN is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain system is generally robust with proper oil maintenance.
Mitsubishi specifies SAE 10W‑30 oil meeting API CJ-4 or ACEA E7 standards for heavy-duty diesel engines. Passenger-car oils (e.g., ACEA C3) lack sufficient soot-handling capacity. Change every 10,000 km in severe conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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