1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt problems

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The Mitsubishi 3000GT is a front-engine, all-wheel/front-wheel drive grand touring/sports car manufactured and marketed by Mitsubishi from 1990 until 2000 over three different generations. Manufactured in a three-door hatchback coupé body style in Nagoya, Japan, the 2+2 four-seaters were marketed in the Japanese domestic market (JDM) as the GTO, and globally as 3000GT. In North America, it was sold both as the Mitsubishi 3000GT (1991–1999) and the Dodge Stealth (1991–1996), a badge engineered, mechanically identical captive import. As a collaborative effort between Chrysler and Mitsubishi Motors, Chrysler was responsible for the Stealth's exterior styling.

The car was based on Mitsubishi's Sigma/Diamante and retained their transverse mounted 3-liter, 24-valve V6 engines and front-wheel-drive layout. The GTO's engines were naturally aspirated or with twin-turbochargers and were also available with active aerodynamics (automatically adjusting front and rear spoilers), four-wheel-steering, full-time all-wheel-drive and adaptive suspension.

Mitsubishi marketed a retractable hardtop variant, which were engineered and converted from coupé models in California by ASC, and sold as the GT Spyder or VR4 Spyder for model years 1993–1995. These were the first fully automated retractable hardtop marketed since the 1959 Ford Skyliner.

The JDM model took its name from the Galant GTO, a two-door hardtop coupé marketed by the company in the early 1970s, which in turn took its name from the Ferrari 250 GTO, short for Gran Turismo Omologata – "Omologata" signifying that it met motorsport homologation requirements.

1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt

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Common 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt problems

The Mitsubishi 3000GT, produced from 1990 to 2001, is known for its advanced features and sleek styling. However, like any car, it has its share of common problems. This article will focus on the 1993 model, which is part of the first generation of the 3000GT.

One of the most common problems with the 1993 Mitsubishi 3000GT is electrical faults, which can lead to frustrating issues and expensive repairs. The engine and gearbox ECUs, which control the complex systems of the car, are known to fail. These components are replaceable, but they are located in difficult-to-reach areas, which can increase labor costs.

Suspension bushes are another common problem with the 1993 Mitsubishi 3000GT. These bushes wear out regularly and can cause rattling and knocking noises. Struts have also been known to suffer from wear.

Manual transmissions were standard on all UK cars, and notchiness in standard operation is normal. However, transfer cases and output shafts can fail, making it important to have the transmission checked out thoroughly by a specialist. A recall was carried out early on to resolve transfer case issues. Regular fluid changes should be evident on the maintenance records.

Automatic transmissions tend to be even more problematic and are equipped on some grey imports. Hoses for the turbocharger and intercooler are known to pop off, especially if a car has been chipped, which increases the boost pressure. Check the retaining clips to see if they have been fiddled with and look to be in good order.

Engine internals are very reliable in standard form, but con-rods and valves can suffer if the boost is upped too much. There are a lot of modified cars out there, so look your potential purchase over thoroughly as modified components can have detrimental effects on reliability.

Active aerodynamic systems on early cars do inevitably stop working, but they are repairable. However, few owners have gone to the trouble of doing so.

In summary, the 1993 Mitsubishi 3000GT is a well-built car that can provide years of pleasurable motoring if maintained well. However, it does come with its fair share of issues, particularly in the areas of electrical faults, suspension bushes, and transmissions. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help keep the car running smoothly.

1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt engine

Does the Mitsubishi 3000GT a reliable car?

While there are a number of potential issues to watch out for, the 3000GT is a well-built car and if maintained well can provide years of pleasurable motoring.

Why did Mitsubishi stop making 3000GT?

1999 was the final year the 3000GT was available in the U.S. market. With sales slowing to a trickle and new side impact regulations looming, production for the Japanese domestic market finally ceased in 2000.

How long do Mitsubishi 3000gts last?

Yep, it'll last as long as you take care of it. I know of a few above 300k. 1997 3000GT VR4 - 17 years of ownership - TD05-16G E85 600whp - Daily Driver 😈 - Broken Again! definatly 250k+ miles if you take care of it.

Is the 3000GT a rare car?

While the 1999 3000GT VR-4 is the rarest of the bunch, with just 287 being sold in the US market before Mitsubishi discontinued the 3000GT, a 1998 model with so few miles on the odometer is likely even rarer.

1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt.

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1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt.

2002-05-14
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, A CONDITION EXISTS THAT ALLOWS OIL TO LEAK FROM THE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE TRANSFER CASE.
  • Consequence: LOW OIL LEVELS IN THE TRANSFER CASE COULD CAUSE BEARING DAMAGE AND RESULT IN DRIVE TRAIN LOCKUP, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSFER CASE FOR INDICATIONS OF OIL LEAKAGE OR DAMAGE. VEHICLES THAT HAVE OIL LEAKAGE WILL HAVE THE TRANSFER CASE RESEALED AND RE-FILL THE TRANSFER CASE TO THE PROPER LEVEL, OR REPLACED THE TRANSFER CASE IF THERE IS EVIDENCE OF DAMAGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DECEMBER 9, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AMERICA AT 1-888-648-7820 OR MITSUBMISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
1996-08-12
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: UNDER CONDITIONS OF FULL LOCK STEERING AND FULL SUSPENSION TRAVEL, THE LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT WHEEL-SIDE BRAKE HOSE CAN CRACK, RESULTING IN BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE.
  • Consequence: BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE WILL CAUSE ILLUMINATION OF THE BRAKE WARNING LAMP AND REDUCTION IN BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT WHEEL-SIDE BRAKE HOSES WITH REVISED HOSE ASSEMBLIES.
1996-07-25
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: UNDER CONDITIONS OF FULL LOCK STEERING AND FULL SUSPENSION TRAVEL, THE LEFT OR RIGHT FRONT WHEEL-SIDE BRAKE HOSE CAN CRACK, RESULTING IN BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE.
  • Consequence: BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE WILL CAUSE ILLUMINATION OF THE BRAKE WARNING LAMP AND REDUCTION IN BRAKING EFFICIENCY INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT WHEEL-SIDE BRAKE HOSES WITH REVISED HOSE ASSEMBLIES.

Negative 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt car reviews

  1. Tristin Reichert 2025-01-11

    The best thing about this car is that it outperforms most cars under $100,000 both in a straight line and in the corners. Although it required some fixing up, it has been reliable ever since.

  2. Cordell Bogan 2024-05-06

    The 1993 Mitsubishi 3000GT is a beautiful car, but it is more suited for cruising than for sports. While the Nissan 300ZX and Toyota Supra also had a 3.0 6 cyl engine, the 3000GT was the only one with front-wheel drive, making it heavier and less agile. Although it did not handle as well as my '90 300ZX, it was still a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the engine suffered from an internal oil leak and died prematurely at only 68,000 miles. I had a similar experience with my 1993 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX, which had the same issue at 125,000 miles. Maintenance for the 3000GT was quite expensive, and I ultimately decided to sell the car as-is rather than pay $3,200 for a replacement engine, fearing further issues.

  3. Arjun Conn 2024-03-06

    Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 3000. I find it really fun to drive and super comfortable! Although, I do wish the stock horsepower was a bit higher, especially considering how heavy the car is. In terms of performance, my 3000 does alright in the 1/4 mile - it ran 15.6 with a cold air and magnaflow exhaust, which isn't too shabby! The only downside is the cost of parts and upkeep, but overall, I'd say it's one of the most enjoyable and best cars I've ever owned.

Positive 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt car reviews

  1. Nils Reichel 2025-02-23

    I've owned a few Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4s (a 1991, a 1994, and now a 1993), and I have to say, I haven't found any other sports cars under $100,000 that can compare to this overweight luxury sports car. If you happen to come across a smartly modified 3/S Twin Turbo, be prepared to be humbled. The exterior is sharp and aggressive, while the interior is open with exotic curves. The gearing in the 1st generations is very long to accommodate the small, fast-spooling stock twin turbos that create the wide powerband. Of course, the reliability of these cars is only as good as the previous owner, so it's important to give a true sports car the maintenance it deserves.

  2. Horacio Purdy 2025-02-19

    My first and only car! It's the sexiest car out there and I would never trade it for anything in the world. I love absolutely everything about it. I'm a bad girl in a badass car :)

  3. Dexter Hackett 2025-02-10

    Hi there! I noticed that you mentioned buying a slightly used sports car with 12000 miles on it. That's awesome! It sounds like you really put it to the test and had a lot of fun with it. I can only imagine how exhilarating it must have been to reach 160 mph with 4 inches of pedal left. It's great to hear that the aerodynamics made it feel like you were only doing 80. Thanks for sharing your experience!

  4. Hazle Huel 2025-02-04

    The car's control, reliability, and overall perfectness, both inside and out, make it a keeper. It's definitely worth putting a new engine in when the time comes - it's currently at 173K and still starting and running perfectly. I only drive it in town from September to June, and during the summer months, I take it up and down the west coast of the USA without any incidents. Just change the oil, and it's ready to go, even though it's 9 years old. There are no leaks anywhere, no loose parts making any noises, and no electrical issues - it's just as perfect as day one.

  5. Zackery Luettgen 2025-01-08

    This car is an absolute blast to drive! Although I had to rebuild the transmission at 102k, I haven't had any other issues. I really love this car, but I do wish I had gone for the VR4 or at least the base with a manual transmission. It feels a bit slow from a stop, but once you hit the highway, it really picks up speed. I'm sure the VR4 would have satisfied my need for speed even more! Speaking of the highway, this car handles like a dream at high speeds. It's so smooth that going 100mph feels like you're only going 20. Plus, it looks amazing and turns heads wherever I go. People are always complimenting me on it. And let's not forget about reliability - this car has been rock solid. The back seats are pretty much just for show, but hey, it's a sports car! And when it comes to performance on curvy roads, this car really shines.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt problems:

What are the common problems on a 94-98 SL? | Mitsubishi 3000GT ...
What are the common problems on a 94-98 SL? | Mitsubishi 3000GT ...
https://www.3si.org/threads/what-are-the-common-problems-on-a-94-98-sl.282853/

Jul 18, 2005 ... 1. Auto transmission · 2. 94-96 lifter tick · 3. Manual transmissions are common to grind. · 4. If you get one with ECS it is prone to problems · 5.

Common mechanical issues found in the 3000GT (mainly VR4) ? : r ...
Common mechanical issues found in the 3000GT (mainly VR4) ? : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/3000gt/comments/f7oo6g/common_mechanical_issues_found_in_the_3000gt/

Feb 22, 2020 ... Honestly both generations have pretty strong mechanical components compared to other engines(excluding the 2jz). All VR4s have forged rods ...

common problems with 1st gen. 3000gt? | Mitsubishi 3000GT ...
common problems with 1st gen. 3000gt? | Mitsubishi 3000GT ...
https://www.3si.org/threads/common-problems-with-1st-gen-3000gt.182884/

Nov 19, 2003 ... Check for the 60K maintenance and make sure the tensioner was replaced. If a VR4 check transfer case for leaks. Also a recall on this. Also ...

Mitsubishi 3000GT Problems and Complaints - 29 Issues
Mitsubishi 3000GT Problems and Complaints - 29 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/mitsubishi/3000gt

Top Mitsubishi 3000GT Problems · Delayed Shift With Automatic Transmission · Oil Leak From Transfer Case · Oil Leak From Transfer Case · Seat Belts May Not Retract.

Common Problems with Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 | JustAnswer
Common Problems with Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 | JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/mitsubishi/5daw6-mitsubishi-3000gt-vr-4-93-vr4-idles-fine-no-problems.html

Aug 5, 2011 ... What causes stumbles, misses, and cuts in my 93 vr4? - Answered by a verified Mitsubishi Mechanic.

Other years of Mitsubishi 3000gt

mitsubishi 3000gt 1994 photo
3000gt 1994
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3

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mitsubishi 3000gt 1995 photo
3000gt 1995
Mitsubishi

57

1

20

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mitsubishi 3000gt 1996 photo
3000gt 1996
Mitsubishi

25

1

36

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mitsubishi 3000gt 1997 photo
3000gt 1997
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38

1

25

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mitsubishi 3000gt 1998 photo
3000gt 1998
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15

1

33

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mitsubishi 3000gt 1999 photo
3000gt 1999
Mitsubishi

12

2

19

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  • 4
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  • 2
  • 1

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1993 Mitsubishi 3000gt photo