1998 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.

1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt

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Common 1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt problems

The Mitsubishi 3000GT 1998 model has been reported to have several common problems by owners. These issues include:

  1. Engine Problems: The 3.0L V6 engine in the 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT can experience issues like a failed timing belt, faulty fuel injectors, and a worn-out crankshaft position sensor. These problems can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure if not addressed promptly.
  2. Electrical Issues: Owners have reported problems with power windows and locks, a malfunctioning alternator, and issues with the car's computer. Addressing these electrical issues quickly is crucial to prevent further complications.
  3. Cooling System Problems: Common issues with the cooling system include a leaking radiator, a stuck thermostat, and a failed water pump. Maintaining a properly functioning cooling system is essential for the engine's health and should be addressed promptly.
  4. Suspension and Steering Problems: The 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT can experience issues with its suspension and steering system, such as worn ball joints, bad tie rods, and a failed power steering pump. These problems can lead to excessive tire wear, poor handling, and a noisy steering system.
  5. Transmission Problems: Both manual and automatic transmissions in the 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT can have issues. Manual transmissions may suffer from worn synchros or gear teeth, while automatic transmissions can experience problems with the torque converter or solenoids. Timely diagnosis and repair of transmission issues are crucial to prevent further damage.

Addressing these common problems promptly and ensuring regular maintenance can help keep the Mitsubishi 3000GT 1998 running smoothly for years to come.

1998 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.

1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi 3000gt problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Wheels problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Power train problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt complaints

The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt.

2014-06-22

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-05-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: JA3AM44H5WY
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: GOT IN THE CAR PUT KEY IN IGNITION STARTED TO TURN KEY AND PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED FOR APPARENTLY NO REASON. BROKE WINDSHIELD. WAS UNABLE TO SEE OR HEAR AT FIRST AND SUFFERED A CUT UNDER CHIN AND HEADACHE FOR 4 DAYS. WHERE THE CAR WAS PARKED THERE WAS NO WAY FOR ANYONE TO HIT THE FRONT END. THERE IS VIDEO SHOWING NO DAMAGE TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR AT ALL. THERE WAS WITNESSES TO THE FACT THAT THE CAR NEVER MOVED AND ENGINE NEVER STARTED. *TR
2008-09-04

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-09-01
  • VIN: JA3AM44HXWY
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE STALLS WHILE TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD LOOSES ALL ELECTRICAL IF YOU CYCLE IGNITION SWITCH IT IMMEDIATELY RESTARTS BUT ONCE IT LOOSES ALL POWER THERE IS NO POWER STEERING NEARLY RESULTING IN A CRASH ON SEVERAL TURNS. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS OR CODES. RANDOM NO SET PATTERN TO IT HAPPENING.. UPON RESEARCHING THE INTERNET SEVERAL MITSUBISHI PRODUCTS SHARE THIS FAILURE OR FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH ..THERE ARE ALL KINDS OF COMPLAINTS OF THIS .EVEN STEERING LOCKING ..VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION!! A LIGHT TO MODERATE BUMP WILL STALL THE CAR OR CAUSE IGNITION SWITCH TO SHUT DOWN LOOSING ALL POWER EVEN RADIO MORE SO IN LEFT HAND TURNS. IT HAPPENS ON A DAILY BASIS SOMETIMES ONCE EVERY 5-10 MINUTES .AS A 23 YEAR VETERAN POLICE OFFICER WHO WAS IN CHARGE OF A FLEET.. I CAN SAY THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS AND POTENTIALLY DEADLY THINGS I HAVE SEEN HAPPEN TO LOOSE ALL POWER AT THAT SPEED OR FREEWAY SPEED AND HAVE NO POWER STEERING I REFUSE TO EVEN LET MY WIFE DRIVE IT..I DON'T SEE WHERE MITSUBISHI HAS EVEN BEGUN ANY KIND OF RECALL.. I GUESS NOT ENOUGH PEOPLE HAVE DIED FROM THIS YET TO DO A RECALL... BUT IF YOU DID HOW DO YOU REPORT IT? I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE OFFICIALS FROM MITSUBISHI TAKE THIS ONE FOR A DRIVE AT SPEED ON A TEST TRACK..IT HASN'T BEEN REPAIRED YET MITSUBISHI NORTH OF COLUMBUS SAYS THEY NEVER HEARD OF ONE DOING THIS..BUT LOTS OF COMPLAINTS ON THE NET .. WITHOUT IT THROWING A CODE THEY ARE NOT SURE HOW LONG IT WOULD TAKE TO FIX IT..OR FIND THE PROBLEM. THIS IS A SISTER CAR TO THE DODGE STEALTH R/T NOT SURE IF DODGE HAS EXPERIENCED THIS WITH THAT CAR OR NOT.... *TR
2007-08-23

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
  • VIN: JA3AN74K9WY
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: BOTH SEATBELTS IN THE FRONT OF MY 1998 MITSUBISHI 3000GT VR4 DO NOT RETRACT WHEN THERE IS SLACK IN THEM. *TR
2006-08-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-07-17
  • VIN: JA3AM84J3WY
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELTS IN MY 1998 MITSUBISHI 3000GT SL DO NOT WORK PROPERLY. WHEN PULLED ON TO LOCK INTO RECEIVER THEY DO NOT RETRACT THUS LEAVING SLACK WHICH CAN CAUSE PASSENGER TO GO FORWARD CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY. *NM
2006-07-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
  • VIN: JA3AM84J5WY
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS
  • Summary: SEVERE TICK IN ENGINE EVEN AFTER DEALER CHANGED ALL LIFTERS. CHROME 17" FACTORY RIMS BREAK SEAL ON TIRES RESULTING IN NUMEROUS FLAT TIRES. *NM
2006-05-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-05-27
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: MITSUBISHI 3000GT'S SEAT BELT DO NOT RETRACT AFTER PULLED ON. IF AN ACCIDENT OCCURRED SEAT BELTS WOULD NOT SERVE AS A FORM OF PROTECTION AS THEY SHOULD. MANY OTHER PEOPLE WITH SAME MAKE AND MODEL OF VEHICLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. *JB
2005-03-14

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-03-11
  • VIN: JA3AN74K9WY
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE.THE FIRST OWNER HAD THE RIMS REPLACED WITH FACTORY REPLACEMENT CHROME RIMS 15,000 MILES AGO.HE SAID HAD EXPERIENCED"UNEXPLAINBLE FLAT TIRES" A FEW TIMES BEFORE HE REPLACED THE RIMS.I HAVE HAD THIS CAR FOR 8 MONTHS AND HAVE HAD 4 FLAT TIRES,TWO OF WHICH TOTALLY DESTROYED THE TIRES.BOTH OF THOSE BLEW OUT ON THE SIDE WALLS.2 OF THEM WERE "UNEXPLAINABLE"THERE WAS NO SHARP OBJECTS IN THE TIRE,NO CUTS,NO PHYISICAL DAMAGE THAT WOULD EXPLAIN HOW THEY WENT FLAT.THEY JUST WENT FLAT AFTER THE FIRST 2 BLOW OUTS I CHANGED TIRE BRAND THINKING IT WAS THE TIRES,BUT IT HAS HAPPENED TWICE MORE SINCE THEN.THIS HAS NOW COST ME 4 TIRES.*AK
2005-01-14

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-30
  • VIN: JA3AN74KXWY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE'S WHEELS LOCKED UP WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO COME TO AN ABRUPT STOP. *NM THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT THE TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTIONED. PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT THE CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE'S TRANSFER CASE CHECKED BECAUSE OF A RECALL. THE CONSUMER FEELS THAT THE DEALER DID NOT CONDUCT A THOROUGH INSPECTION. THE CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE COST OF A NEW TRANSMISSION. *NM
2001-03-28

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-06-19
  • VIN: JA3AM84J6WY
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: VEHICLE IS PULLING TO EITHER RIGHT OR LEFT WHEN BRAKING. DEALER REPLACED BOTH FRONT CALIPERS/ MASTER CYLINDER/ BRAKE LINES AND BRAKE VALVES. *AK THE DEALER ASKED THE CONSUMER TO TURN IN THE VEHICLE FOR BUY BACK, BUT THE FACTORY REPRESENTATIVE SAID THAT THE FAULT COULD BE REPAIRED AND WAS RETURNED TO THE CONSUMER. THE CONSUMER SAYS THE VEHICLE WAS LEMON AND THE NUMEROUS PROBLEMS STILL EXIST. *YH
2001-02-26

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JA3AN74K8WY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
2000-08-16

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-30
  • VIN: JA3AM84J6WY
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: PLATING ON THE WHEELS IS PEELING CAUSING A SLOW AIR LEAK ON ALL FOUR TIRES. THIS IS THE SECOND SET THAT HAS EXHIBITED THIS PROBLEM. THE ORGINAL SET WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY.
2000-05-27

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-03-23
  • VIN: JA3AN74K1WY
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FRONT SUSPENSION FAILURE HAS CAUSED FRONT WHEEL AND TIRE DAMAGE. THESE ARE LOW PROFILE TIRES AND THE WHEELS ARE A TWO-PIECE DESIGN (THE CENTER SPOKES ARE WELDED TO THE RIM). THIS LEAVES THE RIM AREA NOT FULLY SUPPORTED AND THEREFORE WEAK.*AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 245/45ZR18 )
1999-12-17

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-07
  • VIN: JA3AM84J4WY
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: EXPERIENCED 6 FLAT TIRES - 3 DRIVER'S FRONT, 3 DRIVER'S REAR. WHEEL/TIRES SUDDENLY LOST PRESSURE AND SEAL. DEALER CANNOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH RIMS OR TIRES.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 225/55R16 )
1999-12-17

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-12-14
  • VIN: JA3AM84J4WY
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: NOTIFIED BY DETAIL SPECIALIST THAT CAR DID NOT HAVE CLEAR COAT FINISH ON TOP OF PAINT. PAINT RUBBED OFF WITH OIL. DETAILER STATES THAT FINISH WON'T LAST 3-4 YEARS. *AK
1998-12-17

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-09
  • VIN: JA3AM84J5WY
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: THE SEAL BETWEEN THE TIRE AND THE WHEEL LOOSENS WHICH APPEARS TO BE CAUSED BY THE REACTION BETWEEN THE CHROME AND ALLOY OF THE WHEEL RESULTING IN CORROSION.

1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 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.

Negative 1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt car reviews

  1. Charley Grimes 2024-08-28

    This car came with no warranty available. However, within less than 90 days of owning it, the water pump froze and the timing belt broke, causing major problems with the engine. Despite this, I am confident in stating that the company should have stood behind the problem with the car.

  2. Xander Barton 2024-05-01

    I just wanted to share that I recently purchased a 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT and I absolutely love it! It's a sports car that drives very smoothly and I enjoy the attention it gets from people as I drive down the street. I've actually owned a Mitsubishi before, an Eclipse that I drove for a long time, and I've always been very happy with my cars.

  3. Schuyler Botsford 2024-05-01

    This car catches everyone's eye all the time. However, it has been a constant problem. I have gone through 3 thermostats which caused the car to shift irregularly and harshly. The timing belt change at around 80k miles is $$$. Parts are $$. Keep in mind, I have the base model. I think they really left out a lot of quality on the engine as a result.

  4. Jasen Little 2024-04-10

    Hi there! We noticed that you may be experiencing some transmission problems. Let's see how we can help you out!

Positive 1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt car reviews

  1. Shad Mante 2024-10-02

    It's so great to hear that you've had your car for 8 years and counting! While you've had to replace your tranny twice, it's wonderful to hear that the car is still going strong. You've even won races against a 2000 viper, which is amazing! The radio controls on your steering wheel are a great feature that helps you keep your eyes on the road. The car is comfortable to drive and has a powerful take off. The interior is also really nice. It's impressive that you've upgraded the turbo, carbon fiber hood and light weight fly wheel, turning your car into a real monster!

  2. Stephen Wyman 2024-09-22

    You've got a 98 3000gt vr4. It's a great car inside and out, with no known problems. It's an excellent performer, with exceptional power and handling, and it definitely turns heads!

  3. Connor Shanahan 2024-09-15

    I've been working with vehicles for a while now, and I must say that the 3000gt is a really fun car with a great body design. When modified correctly, they can be incredibly fast too!

  4. Norwood Kuhic 2024-09-12

    It's a great car! How exotic!

  5. Gayle McKenzie 2024-09-03

    What a car!!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 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 ... What are the common problems on a 94-98 SL? · 1. Auto transmission · 2. 94-96 lifter tick · 3. Manual transmissions are common to grind. · 4. If ...

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 ...

Reliability of the 3000gt's? | Mitsubishi 3000GT & Dodge Stealth ...
Reliability of the 3000gt's? | Mitsubishi 3000GT & Dodge Stealth ...
https://www.3si.org/threads/reliability-of-the-3000gts.528884/

Dec 4, 2011 ... I have a 98 sl with 159k and havent had a problem... i think a lot of it depends if you do all the routine maintenance on time and do it ...

How reliable is a 3000gt. Is it easy or hard to maintain : r/3000gt
How reliable is a 3000gt. Is it easy or hard to maintain : r/3000gt
https://www.reddit.com/r/3000gt/comments/yujrzc/how_reliable_is_a_3000gt_is_it_easy_or_hard_to/

Nov 14, 2022 ... I found a 1998 3000gt sl for 5k with 120k miles on it. ... Mitsubishi now. Bringing ... if you don't, take your time to research the common problems ...

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.

Other years of Mitsubishi 3000gt

mitsubishi 3000gt 1999 photo
3000gt 1999
Mitsubishi

12

2

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi 3000gt 2001 photo
3000gt 2001
Mitsubishi

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi 3000gt 2002 photo
3000gt 2002
Mitsubishi

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi 3000gt 1991 photo
3000gt 1991
Mitsubishi

63

5

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi 3000gt 1992 photo
3000gt 1992
Mitsubishi

117

3

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi 3000gt 1993 photo
3000gt 1993
Mitsubishi

0

3

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1998 Mitsubishi 3000gt photo