Engine Code

Mitsubishi 6A13TT Engine (1994–2001) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Mitsubishi 6A13TT is a 1,992 cc, twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2001. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and sequential twin‑turbocharging with Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing on the intake camshafts. In standard form it delivered 195–206 kW (265–280 PS) and torque figures between 363–384 Nm, offering high‑revving performance with minimal turbo lag.

Fitted exclusively to the Mitsubishi GTO (3000GT) i

Mitsubishi Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1994–1997 meet JIS D 1001 standards; 1998–2001 models meet Euro 2 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/6A13TT).

Mitsubishi 6A13TT Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi 6A13TT is a 1,992 cc twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine engineered for high‑performance grand tourers (1994–2001). It combines DOHC 24‑valve architecture with sequential twin‑turbocharging and MIVEC to deliver flat torque curves and responsive high‑rpm power. Designed to meet JIS D 1001 (early builds) and Euro 2 (later builds) standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance for its era.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,992 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded)
Configuration
V6, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Twin‑turbocharged (sequential)
Bore × stroke
81.0 mm × 64.8 mm
Power output
195–206 kW (265–280 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque
363–384 Nm @ 3,000–4,500 rpm
Fuel system
Electronic multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standard
JIS D 1001 (1994–1997); Euro 2 (1998–2001)
Compression ratio
8.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Twin Mitsubishi TD025 (sequential primary/secondary)
Timing system
Belt‑driven DOHC (per bank)
Oil type
API SH/SJ, SAE 10W‑40
Dry weight
186 kg

Mitsubishi 6A13TT Compatible Models

The Mitsubishi 6A13TT was used exclusively in Mitsubishi's GTO (3000GT) platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no cross-platform adaptations but featured model-year-specific updates—revised turbo actuators in 1998 and updated ECU calibration in 1999—creating minor service part distinctions. All revisions are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Mitsubishi
Years:
1994–2001
Models:
GTO / 3000GT (Z16A)
Variants:
Twin Turbo
View Source
Mitsubishi PT‑2002

Common Reliability Issues - MITSUBISHI 6A13TT Compatible Models

The 6A13TT's primary reliability risk is secondary turbo actuator diaphragm failure in early builds (1994–1997), with elevated incidence in high-boost or track-use conditions. Mitsubishi internal quality data from 1999 indicated up to 16% of pre-1998 engines exhibited actuator faults before 120,000 km, while JAMA durability testing confirmed revised actuators reduced this to <3% in post-1998 units. Extended oil change intervals and aggressive driving accelerate thermal stress, making maintenance adherence critical.

Secondary turbo actuator diaphragm failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost above 4,000 rpm, P0234/P0299 overboost codes, limp mode activation.
Cause: Rubber diaphragm degradation in early actuator design under sustained high exhaust temperatures in pre-1998 engines.
Fix: Replace with updated silicone-diaphragm actuator per Mitsubishi TB‑96‑09‑127; verify vacuum lines and solenoid function.
Timing belt failure (per bank)
Symptoms: Engine stalls abruptly, metallic clatter on start attempt, misfire on one cylinder bank.
Cause: Belt degradation due to age or oil contamination; interference design means failure causes valve-piston contact.
Fix: Replace both timing belts, tensioners, and idlers at 90,000 km or 5 years; inspect valves for damage if failure occurred.
Intercooler hose delamination
Symptoms: Boost leak under load, hissing noise, reduced performance, check engine light.
Cause: Internal rubber layer separation in factory silicone hoses due to oil vapor exposure and heat cycling.
Fix: Replace intercooler hoses with OEM-reinforced units; inspect clamps and routing for chafe points.
MIVEC solenoid clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, flat spot at 4,500 rpm, reduced high-end power, MIVEC-related DTCs.
Cause: Oil sludge accumulation in MIVEC oil control solenoid screen due to extended oil intervals.
Fix: Clean or replace MIVEC solenoid; flush oil passages and reset adaptation with OEM diagnostic tool.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1996–2001) and JAMA durability failure statistics (1997–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

MITSUBISHI 6A13TT FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The 6A13TT offers exceptional performance but demands meticulous maintenance. Early models (1994–1997) had turbo actuator diaphragm failures under heat stress. Post-1998 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct 10W-40 oil, timely timing belt replacement, and premium fuel greatly enhance longevity.

Key issues include secondary turbo actuator diaphragm failure (early builds), timing belt failure (interference engine), intercooler hose delamination, and MIVEC solenoid clogging. These are documented in Mitsubishi technical bulletins TB‑96‑09‑127 and related TIS entries.

The 6A13TT was used exclusively in the Mitsubishi GTO / 3000GT Twin Turbo (1994–2001) in Japanese and select international markets. No other Mitsubishi or partner models received this engine.

Yes. The 6A13TT responds well to ECU remapping, boost controller upgrades, and fuel system enhancements. Stage 1 yields +20–30 kW; full upgrades (larger turbos, forged internals) support 350+ PS. Always upgrade intercooling, oil cooling, and fuel delivery to match.

High for its performance class. In a GTO Twin Turbo (1996), typical consumption is ~13.2 L/100km (city) and ~8.9 L/100km (highway), or about 21 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 19–23 mpg (UK) when maintained properly.

Yes. The 6A13TT is an interference engine on both cylinder banks. If either timing belt fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause severe internal damage. Timing belt replacement every 90,000 km or 5 years is critical.

Mitsubishi specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SH/SJ (or ACEA A3/B3). Always use a quality semi-synthetic or synthetic oil with high thermal stability and change every 7,500 km to protect turbos and MIVEC system.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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.

Regulatory Context

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.

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMITSUBISHI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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