The Mitsubishi 4J13 is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivered 80–87 kW (109–118 PS) with torque figures between 145–154 Nm, offering responsive low‑end performance and improved fuel efficiency over its predecessor.
Fitted to models such as the ASX (GA), Outlander (GE/GG), and Eclipse Cross (GN), the 4J13 was engineered for compact SUV applications with an emphasis on urban drivability and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, closed-loop fuel injection, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, allowing compliance with Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the MIVEC oil control solenoid seals in early production units, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑14‑009. This issue was linked to suboptimal elastomer material in high-temperature environments during initial manufacturing runs. From 2017 onward, revised solenoid assemblies with improved seal compounds were introduced across the 4J1x family.
Production years 2013–2016 meet Euro 5 standards; 2017–2023 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/5983).
The Mitsubishi 4J13 is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs and crossovers (2013–2023). It combines DOHC architecture with dual-MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth low‑rpm torque and enhanced fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and later Euro 6) standards, it balances urban agility with regulatory 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 | 80–87 kW (109–118 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 145–154 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2016); Euro 6 (2017–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | API SN/ILSAC GF‑5, SAE 0W‑20 | |
| Dry weight | 94 kg |
The dual-MIVEC system enhances low-end responsiveness and fuel economy but requires clean oil passages to maintain cam phaser function. Early units (pre‑2017) are susceptible to MIVEC solenoid seal degradation per TSB‑ME‑14‑009—symptoms include rough idle and P0011/P0014 codes. Use of ILSAC GF‑5 0W‑20 oil is critical to reduce internal friction and maintain phaser oil pressure. Chain-driven timing system is maintenance-free but sensitive to oil quality—extended oil intervals may cause chain tensioner wear. Post‑2017 engines feature improved solenoid seals and are significantly more robust.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/ILSAC GF‑5 (SAE 0W‑20) specification (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual). ACEA C2 oils are acceptable alternatives.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2013–2016 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/5983). All 2017–2023 units meet Euro 6.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies slightly by ECU calibration and market emissions tuning (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME‑4J13‑04).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME‑4J13‑01 to ME‑4J13‑04, TSB‑ME‑14‑009
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/5983)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4J13 was used across Mitsubishi's GA/GE platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Outlander and modified accessory brackets in the ASX—and from 2017 the updated Eclipse Cross adopted a revised ECU calibration and exhaust manifold, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ME‑4J13‑07). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('J' for 4J1x series). Early engines (2013–2016) have silver cam covers with black plastic timing covers; post‑2017 units use all‑black cam covers. Critical differentiation from 4A92: 4J13 has 1,590 cc displacement, dual-MIVEC, and unique intake manifold runner length. ECU part numbers beginning with MR589xxx denote 4J13 applications. Service parts require production date verification—MIVEC solenoid kits for engines before 01/2017 are incompatible with later units due to seal compound redesign (Mitsubishi TSB‑ME‑14‑009).
The 4J13's primary reliability risk is MIVEC solenoid seal degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in high‑temperature or stop-start urban use. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 2016 indicated a notable share of pre‑2017 engines triggering cam phaser codes before 80,000 km, while EU type‑approval audits flagged marginal solenoid durability in initial batches. Frequent short trips and extended oil intervals accelerate seal hardening, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2014–2019) and JAMA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4J13.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MITSUBISHI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MITSUBISHI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMITSUBISHI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
