The Mitsubishi 4J15 is a 1,499 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 78–80 kW (106–109 PS) and torque figures between 145–149 Nm, offering responsive urban performance with low fuel consumption.
Fitted to models such as the Mitsubishi Mirage, Space Star, and Attrage, the 4J15 was engineered for global subcompact efficiency, low emissions, and compact packaging. Emissions compliance was achieved through MIVEC valve control, precise electronic fuel injection, and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 5 and later Euro 6 compliance depending on model year and region.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner in high‑mileage or short‑trip urban use, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin SB‑13‑08‑021. This issue stems from marginal oil flow to the hydraulic tensioner under frequent cold starts, leading to chain slack and potential misalignment. From 2016, revised tensioner materials and oil gallery geometry were introduced across all applications.
Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2023 models meet Euro 6 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4J15).
The Mitsubishi 4J15 is a 1,499 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact models (2010–2023). It combines DOHC with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low‑rpm performance and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 (early builds) and Euro 6 (later builds) standards, it balances light weight with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,499 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.8 mm | |
| Power output | 78–80 kW (106–109 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 145–149 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SN/ILSAC GF‑5, SAE 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 82 kg |
The MIVEC system provides responsive low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 oil meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting catalytic efficiency and ensuring adequate hydraulic tensioner function. Extended intervals or low-viscosity non-spec oil accelerate tensioner degradation. Post-2016 engines feature improved oil flow to the tensioner; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Mitsubishi SB‑13‑08‑021. The timing chain is maintenance-free but sensitive to oil degradation—sludge buildup can impede tensioner operation.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (0W-20 or 5W-30) specification (Mitsubishi SB‑13‑08‑021). ACEA C2/C3 oils are acceptable alternatives for Euro 6 variants.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2010–2015 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/4J15). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2016–2023 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power varies slightly by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. MIVEC‑4J15).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MIVEC‑4J15, TIMING‑4J15, FUEL‑4J15
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/4J15)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mitsubishi 4J15 was used across Mitsubishi's Global Small Car platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shortened exhaust manifolds in the Mirage and revised engine mounts in the Attrage—and from 2016 the facelifted Space Star adopted updated timing components, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Mitsubishi TIS MIVEC‑4J15). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate engine displacement ('4J' for 1.5L 4J15 series). Early engines (2010–2015) have black valve covers with standard tensioners; post-2016 units use similar covers but with updated tensioner part numbers. Critical differentiation from 3A92: 4J15 has 1,499 cc displacement vs. 1,499 cc but different bore/stroke and MIVEC calibration. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioner kits for engines before 06/2016 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (Mitsubishi SB‑13‑08‑021).
The 4J15's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early builds (2010–2015), with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip urban use. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 2017 indicated up to 8% of pre-2016 engines exhibited chain slack before 150,000 km, while EU type-approval testing confirmed revised tensioners reduced this to <2% in post-2016 units. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil accelerate tensioner degradation, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2013–2020) and EU type-approval failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4J15.
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