The Mitsubishi 4J11 is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2023. It features an aluminum alloy block with cast‑iron liners, DOHC 16‑valve architecture, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivered 86–90 kW (117–122 PS), with torque figures between 154–157 Nm, offering responsive urban performance and improved fuel efficiency over its predeces…
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2023 models meet Euro 6 compliance depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4582).
The Mitsubishi 4J11 is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs and hatchbacks (2010–2023). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with dual MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel economy over previous generations. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,590 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 86–90 kW (117–122 PS) | |
Torque | 154–157 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2023) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Mitsubishi DiaQueen 0W‑20 (API SN/ILSAC GF‑5) | |
Dry weight | 102 kg |
The Mitsubishi 4J11 was used across Mitsubishi's GA/GE platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Outlander GE and updated PCV routing in the Eclipse Cross GK—and from 2015 the Euro 6–compliant ASX GA models adopted lean-burn calibration, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 4J11's primary reliability risk is oil dilution in cold‑climate short‑trip use, with elevated incidence in urban stop‑start driving below 10 °C. Mitsubishi internal quality reports from 2016 indicated a subset of pre‑2016 engines required early oil changes due to fuel contamination, while EU service records show minor MIVEC solenoid faults as a secondary concern. Extended oil change intervals and low‑quality fuel exacerbate sludge formation, making correct oil specification and driving habits critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2015–2020) and EU national vehicle inspection failure statistics (2016–2023). 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 4J11 is generally robust, especially post-2016 models with improved piston rings. Early units (2010–2015) are prone to oil dilution in cold climates, but with proper driving habits and timely oil changes using 0W‑20, the engine can exceed 250,000 km without major issues.
Top issues include oil dilution (in short-trip cold use), MIVEC solenoid faults, PCV valve clogging, and plastic thermostat housing leaks. All are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins and are manageable with OEM parts and correct procedures.
The 1.6 L 4J11 appeared in the ASX (2010–2023), Outlander (2012–2018), Lancer facelift (2010–2017), and Eclipse Cross (2017–2023). It was used globally in base and mid-trim variants, always in transverse FWD/AWD layouts. No cross-manufacturer licensing occurred.
Modest gains are possible. ECU remaps yield +6–10 kW safely, but the engine lacks forced induction. Bolt-ons (intake, exhaust) offer marginal gains. Significant tuning is impractical—most owners prioritize fuel economy and reliability.
Excellent for its class. In an ASX 1.6 L, expect ~7.1 L/100km (city) and ~5.2 L/100km (highway), or about 43 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 40–46 mpg (UK), depending on transmission and driving style.
Yes. The 4J11 is an interference design. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is durable—no widespread failures are documented if maintained properly.
Mitsubishi specifies 0W‑20 synthetic meeting API SN or ILSAC GF‑5 (e.g., DiaQueen). Change every 15,000 km or 12 months. Correct oil is vital for MIVEC operation, chain longevity, and minimizing oil dilution risks in cold climates.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MITSUBISHI Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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