The Mitsubishi 4M40-T is a 2,835 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1993 and 2006. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and a mechanically controlled Mitsubishi TD04HL-15T turbocharger, delivering 85–100 kW (115–136 PS) and 280–314 Nm of torque. Its cast‑iron block and indirect injection (IDI) design prioritise off‑road durability and field serviceability over fuel economy.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero (V40/V60), Delica Space Gear (L400), and L200/Triton (K74/K84), the 4M40-T was engineered for rugged utility and sustained load-carrying in remote conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 2 standards in European markets during its production run.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger oil seal failure leading to oil ingestion and blue smoke, highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin ENG‑97‑006. This issue stems from inadequate oil drainage design and heat soak during frequent short trips, causing carbon buildup in the vertical oil return line and subsequent bearing wear.
Production years 1996–2006 meet Euro 2 standards in applicable markets (Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Type Approval #MLIT‑M4M40‑1997).
The Mitsubishi 4M40-T is a 2,835 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for SUVs and light commercial vehicles (1993–2006). It combines SOHC architecture with indirect injection and a mechanically actuated turbocharger to deliver robust low-end torque and proven field reliability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with functional emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,835 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (mechanical wastegate) | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–100 kW (115–136 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280–314 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump (indirect injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD04HL-15T (mechanical wastegate) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API CF/CF-4, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The indirect injection and mechanical turbo provide exceptional low-RPM torque ideal for off-road and towing but require strict adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals using API CF/CF‑4 diesel-rated oil to prevent turbo bearing failure. Early 4M40-T engines (1993–1999) are prone to turbo oil return clogging due to vertical drain line design; post-2000 units feature revised routing per Mitsubishi ENG‑97‑006. The gear-driven camshaft eliminates timing belt concerns but demands correct valve clearance adjustment every 30,000 km. Use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) is not required, but fuel quality directly impacts injection pump longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires API CF/CF‑4 10W‑40 per Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual. Not compatible with ACEA C2/C3 low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all European-market 4M40-T units from 1996 onward (EU Directive 94/12/EC). Japanese domestic models follow MLIT standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output variance reflects regional pump calibration differences (Mitsubishi PT‑2004).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑4M40‑SPEC, ENG‑97‑006
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Type Approval #MLIT‑M4M40‑1997
EU Directive 94/12/EC on emissions
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4M40-T was used across Mitsubishi's Utility SUV/Commercial platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Delica and upgraded cooling in the L200—and from 2000 the facelifted Pajero adopted updated turbo oil routing, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the injection pump (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑4M40‑ID). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine displacement ('M' for 2.8L diesel). Early models (1993–1999) use silver valve covers with external oil feed lines to the turbo; post-2000 units have black valve covers and revised oil return routing. Critical differentiation: engines built before 01/2000 use turbocharger part number 49178‑15310; later units use 49178‑15320 with improved bearing materials and drainage (Mitsubishi SB ENG‑97‑006).
The 4M40-T's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil seal failure in pre-2000 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip use. Mitsubishi internal field data (2001) indicated up to 16% of early engines required turbo replacement before 180,000 km, while EU consumer reports cite injection pump wear as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-diesel-rated oil accelerate turbo and pump degradation, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1997–2003) and EU consumer safety agency failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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