1992 Mitsubishi Expo problems

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The Mitsubishi Chariot is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Mitsubishi from 1983 to 2003. It is a small multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Based on the SSW concept car first exhibited at the 23rd Tokyo Motor Show in 1979, the MPV derives its nameplate from chariots used by the ancient Greek and Roman empires.

Internationally, the MPV has been marketed as the Mitsubishi Space Wagon, Mitsubishi Nimbus and Mitsubishi Expo — and as the Dodge and Plymouth Colt Vista Wagon, as captive imports in North America, and as the Eagle Vista Wagon in Canada. It has also been manufactured under license as the Hyundai Santamo and Mitsubishi Savrin in Asia.

First generation (1983)

The first generation Chariot (D0#W-series) was produced from February 1983 until May 1991 with a choice of SOHC straight-four powerplants ranging from the 1.6-liter 4G32 to the 2.0-liter 4G63 petrol engines, or the 1.8 liter 4D65T turbo-diesel (from October 1984), mated to a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. Based on the Tredia, the Chariot partially replaced the Mitsubishi Galant station wagon. In Japan the Chariot was available as either a six- or a seven-seater, in which the rear two rows could be folded down flat; the middle row on the six-seater model could be turned around to create a sitting area in the rear (although not while the vehicle was in motion).

The Chariot's wheelbase was 2,625 mm (103.3 in), while overall length ranged from 4,295–4,485 mm (169.1–176.6 in) depending on market and equipment level, which was within compliance with Japanese regulations concerning exterior dimensions and engine displacement size. In most export markets, the Chariot was sold as the Mitsubishi Space Wagon, but there were also a number of other names used.

A van version with an extended fiberglass roof was sold in Finland as the Mitsubishi Space Van. At the time vans were exempt from tax in Finland and the roof was extended to reach the minimum height of cargo space needed to be registered as a van. The fiberglass extensions were produced by boat manufacturer Esboat. The van's top speed was limited to 80 km/h.

From June 1984, a version with permanent four-wheel drive was also offered for the two-liter engined model, while Japanese customers could also get the 4G62 engine in the MR Turbo version from July 1983 until the 1987 model year (1795 cc, 135 PS or 99 kW at 5800 rpm). This version could reach 175 km/h (109 mph), and was also available with the 3-speed automatic.

In Australia, where it was marketed as the "Nimbus", it won the 1984 Wheels Car of the Year award in its debut year. The Nimbus model codes were "UA" (1984), "UB" (1986), and "UC" (1987).

A single 1.8-litre GLX version, with manual or automatic transmission, was assembled from CKD kits in New Zealand by importer Todd Motors (later Mitsubishi NZ Ltd).

1992 Mitsubishi Expo

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Common 1992 Mitsubishi Expo problems

The Mitsubishi Expo LRV, produced in 1992, is known for its unique design and versatility. However, as with any vehicle, there are common problems that owners may encounter.

  • Brake Light Switch Replacement: Another common issue with the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is a faulty brake light switch. This component is responsible for activating the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed. If the brake light switch fails, the brake lights may not function properly, which can be a safety hazard. The cost of replacing the brake light switch on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $61 to $119.
  • Clutch Hydraulic System Bleed: The clutch hydraulic system in the Mitsubishi Expo LRV can also cause problems. This system is responsible for transmitting hydraulic pressure from the clutch pedal to the clutch, allowing the vehicle to shift gears smoothly. If the clutch hydraulic system becomes contaminated or develops leaks, it may require a hydraulic system bleed to remove air bubbles and restore proper function. The cost of a clutch hydraulic system bleed on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $26 to $33.
  • Suspension Control Arm Bushings Replacement: The suspension control arm bushings in the Mitsubishi Expo LRV can wear out over time, leading to a rough ride and decreased handling performance. These bushings are designed to absorb shock and vibration, and when they wear out, they can cause the suspension to become loose and unstable. The cost of replacing the suspension control arm bushings on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $204 to $229.
  • Valve Cover Gasket Replacement: The valve cover gasket on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV can also cause problems. This gasket is responsible for sealing the valve cover to the engine block, preventing oil leaks. If the valve cover gasket fails, it can cause oil to leak out of the engine, which can lead to further damage if left unaddressed. The cost of replacing the valve cover gasket on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $101 to $187.
  • Brake Booster Replacement: The brake booster on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is responsible for amplifying the force applied to the brake pedal, allowing the vehicle to stop more easily. If the brake booster fails, the vehicle may require more force to stop, which can be a safety hazard. The cost of replacing the brake booster on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $493 to $710.
  • Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover: The air conditioning system on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV can also cause problems. If the air conditioning system develops leaks or becomes contaminated, it may require a refrigerant recovery to remove the old refrigerant and replace it with new refrigerant. The cost of air conditioning refrigerant recovery on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $35 to $44.
  • Suspension System Inspect: The suspension system on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is responsible for providing a smooth ride and stable handling. If the suspension system develops problems, it may require an inspection to diagnose and repair the issue. The cost of a suspension system inspection on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $70 to $89.
  • Body Control System Diagnosis & Testing: The body control system on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is responsible for controlling various electrical systems in the vehicle, including the power windows, power locks, and interior lighting. If the body control system develops problems, it may require diagnosis and testing to identify and repair the issue. The cost of body control system diagnosis and testing on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $35 to $44.
  • Air Conditioning Refrigerant Line Replacement: The air conditioning system on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV can also develop leaks in the refrigerant lines. If this occurs, the lines may need to be replaced to restore proper function. The cost of air conditioning refrigerant line replacement on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $835 to $869.
  • Wheel Alignment: Proper wheel alignment is essential for safe and efficient driving. If the wheels on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV become misaligned, it may require a wheel alignment to restore proper function. The cost of a wheel alignment on a Mitsubishi Expo LRV can range from $132 to $167.

In summary, the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is known for its unique design and versatility, but like any vehicle, it can develop common problems that may require costly repairs. These problems can include clutch failure, brake light switch replacement, clutch hydraulic system bleed, suspension control arm bushings replacement, valve cover gasket replacement, brake booster replacement, air conditioning refrigerant recover, suspension system inspection, body control system diagnosis and testing, air conditioning refrigerant line replacement, and wheel alignment. Owners of the Mitsubishi Expo LRV should be aware of these common problems and take proactive steps to maintain their vehicle and address any issues as they arise.

1992 Mitsubishi Expo engine

1992 Mitsubishi Expo complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Mitsubishi Expo.

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1992 Mitsubishi Expo recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1992 Mitsubishi Expo.

1998-07-22
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ALL WHEEL DRIVE PASSENGER VEHICLES. LOCKUP OF THE TRANSFER CASE CAN OCCUR DUE TO INSUFFICIENT LUBRICATION.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR ADEQUACY OF THE TRANSFER CASE OIL VOLUME, TRANSFER CASE OIL LEAKAGE, AND OPERATIONAL DEGRADATION OF THE TRANSFER CASE MECHANISM. IF OIL VOLUME IS INSUFFICIENT, THE APPROPRIATE AMOUNT OF OIL WILL BE ADDED. IF THERE IS TRANSFER CASE OIL LEAKAGE, AFFECTED COMPONENTS WILL BE REPLACED. IF THE TRANSFER CASE SHOWS OPERATIONAL DEGRADATION, THE TRANSFER CASE WILL BE REPLACED.
1997-04-18
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
  • Summary: EXCESS LUBRICATION CAN CAUSE THE RUBBER DOOR LATCH SWITCH COVER TO DEFORM, AND THE DOOR LATCH SWITCH TO MALFUNCTION, SO THAT THE SHOULDER BELT ANCHORAGE WOULD REMAIN AT THE A-PILLAR WHEN THE DOOR WAS CLOSED.
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DOOR LATCH SWITCH.

Positive 1992 Mitsubishi Expo car reviews

  1. Garrick Bergstrom 2024-10-22

    I'm so glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your Expo LRV! It's unfortunate that Mitsubishi decided to discontinue this car in North America, but I hope you continue to enjoy it for many years to come.

  2. Lavern Labadie 2024-10-10

    Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share an update on my vehicle with you. It's been a while since I last reviewed it, back in March 2002, but I'm happy to report that it's still holding up great! Even though I'm no longer using it for courier work, it has over 215,000 miles on it and is still going strong. As I mentioned in my last post, it gets fantastic gas mileage and the tires are really affordable and long-lasting, usually lasting over 30,000 miles. Overall, I think this is a fantastic vehicle - it looks great, is affordable, and is really practical. Plus, I have a great mechanic who helps keep it in top shape! Thanks for reading.

  3. Leopold Doyle 2024-07-27

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've had it for six years now and it has been an amazing choice! It has so much interior space and sits at a perfect height for us petite folks. I've even taken it back and forth across the country at least twice a year! Initially, it got around 30 mpg, but now it's sagging a little at around 26 mpg. However, I don't think that's too bad for an old car! I did have to get the transmission rebuilt at about 150,000 miles, after the idle regulator went. It's a shame that all the great cars are only made for a few years, isn't it?

  4. Jeffrey Turcotte 2024-07-26

    Your car is wonderful! I also own a 2004 Toyota Matrix xr 4wd and I find this Mitsubishi to be extremely similar. Although, to me, the Matrix's looks blow my little Mitsu away, but it is really just a gem of a car. I love everything about it. So far, so good. I hope it is as reliable as everyone says it is. My mechanic said I picked a great car. He was not that happy because he said he won't make any money off me since it is so reliable. He told me I have great car choices. I own a 96 Prizm which I may sell, a 1992 Mitsu Expo, and the Toyo Matrix. All have proven to be excellent and reliable cars. I don't want to get rid of them ever!

  5. Raymond Conn 2024-04-21

    It's great to hear about your experience with your 1992 Mitsubishi Expo! It sounds like it was a reliable and durable car that served you well. It's impressive that it handled so well in slippery conditions and had such a spacious interior. It's also great to hear that it held up so well over time, with the original brakes lasting past 60,000 miles and the transmission still functioning well after 180,000 miles. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1992 Mitsubishi Expo problems:

1992 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1992 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/mitsubishi/expo-lrv/1992

Get 1992 Mitsubishi Expo LRV repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mitsubishi mechanics near you.

Mitsubishi Expo Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Mitsubishi Expo Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/mitsubishi/expo/

1992 Mitsubishi Expo LRV 1.8L gasoline 4 cylinder (4G93) from North America. Summary: A reliable power loaf, ahead of it's time. Faults: A/C doesn't work ...

1995 Mitsubishi Expo Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
1995 Mitsubishi Expo Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/mitsubishi/expo/1995

Get 1995 Mitsubishi Expo repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mitsubishi mechanics near you.

1992 mitsubishi expo swap help - GalantVR4.org
1992 mitsubishi expo swap help - GalantVR4.org
https://www.galantvr4.org/threads/1992-mitsubishi-expo-swap-help.17410/

Oct 27, 2011 ... ya its cranking too man im not sure what the problem was i need a experts eye. #616-1000-sold #435-2000 1992 Mistubishi Expo ...

Mitsubishi Canter Turbo 4D34: Q&A on Turbo Intercooler & Common ...
Mitsubishi Canter Turbo 4D34: Q&A on Turbo Intercooler & Common ...
https://www.justanswer.com/car/8myg2-mistubish-canter-canter-mitsubish-canter-turbo-4d34-k45939having.html

Aug 31, 2014 ... Why is mitsubishi canter turbo 4D34-K45939 Having low power? - Answered by a verified Auto Mechanic.

Other years of Mitsubishi Expo

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Expo 1993
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Expo 1995
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Expo 1992
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1992 Mitsubishi Expo photo