The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 05. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 24 valves, and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) and 255–280 Nm of torque, balancing smooth power delivery with refined mid‑range response for executive and utility applications.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero, Galant, and Diamante, the 6G72 SOHC 24V was engineered for global reliability in SUVs, sedans, and coupes. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential fuel injection, electronic ignition timing, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 2 compliance in later export variants.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs), which can cause persistent valvetrain ticking and reduced valve lift. This issue, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑91‑022, is linked to oil aeration and marginal oil pressure at idle in high‑mileage engines. From 1995 onward, Mitsubishi introduced revised HLA materials and updated oil gallery routing to improve durability.
Production years 1986–1995 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1996–2005 models meet Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2018).
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) is a 2,972 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, SUVs, and coupes (1986–2005). It combines a cast‑iron block with aluminum SOHC heads and sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards in its final production phase, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,972 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) @ 5,000–5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 255–280 Nm @ 4,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1986–1995); Euro 2 (1996–2005) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 – 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts (service interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi MTF‑04 or API SH/SG (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The SOHC 24-valve V6 design provides smoother breathing than 12-valve variants but relies on hydraulic lash adjusters that require clean, high-quality oil to function reliably. Use of API SH/SG or Mitsubishi MTF-04 10W-40 oil is critical to maintain HLA function and prevent valvetrain noise. Extended oil change intervals (>15,000 km) increase risk of HLA collapse per TSB-ME-91-022. The cast-iron block ensures durability but adds weight. Timing belt replacement at 90,000 km is essential—as an interference engine, failure causes catastrophic valve damage.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SG or Mitsubishi MTF-04 (10W-40) specification (Mitsubishi TSB-ME-91-022).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies only to 1996–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2018). Earlier units are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output varies by ECU calibration and market (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME-G72-01).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME-G72-01, M08-4420, TSB-ME-91-022
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2018)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 6G72 (SOHC 24V) was used across Mitsubishi's Pajero, Galant, and Diamante platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Pajero and modified intake manifolds in the Diamante Sigma—and from 1995 the updated HLA design improved valvetrain reliability, creating minor interchange limits for cylinder head components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Mitsubishi TIS ME-G72-01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('2' for 6G72 series). All SOHC 24V units feature black plastic valve covers with '24V' embossed. Critical differentiation from DOHC 6G72: SOHC version has single cam per bank and rocker arms; DOHC has dual cams and direct bucket tappets. ECU part number prefix 'MR580' confirms SOHC 24V application. HLA kits for engines before 06/1995 use older material composition and are prone to wear per Mitsubishi TSB-ME-91-022.
The 6G72 (SOHC 24V)'s primary reliability risk is hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) wear on pre‑1995 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Mitsubishi internal data from 1997 indicated a notable share of early Pajero and Diamante units required HLA replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and use of non-spec oil increase HLA clogging risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1991–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 6G72-SOHC-24V.
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.
