1994 Mitsubishi Expo problems
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).
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Common 1994 Mitsubishi Expo problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mitsubishi Expo 1994, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Clutch Failure: One of the most commonly reported problems with the Mitsubishi Expo LRV is premature clutch failure. This issue can lead to difficulties in shifting gears and may require the replacement of the clutch assembly.
- Brake Light Switch Replacement: Owners have reported issues with the brake light switch, which can affect the proper functioning of the brake lights. Replacing the brake light switch is necessary to ensure road safety.
- Clutch Hydraulic System Bleed: Problems with the clutch hydraulic system bleeding have been noted. This issue can result in a spongy or unresponsive clutch pedal, affecting the vehicle's drivability.
- Suspension Control Arm Bushings Replacement: Complaints include the need to replace the suspension control arm bushings. Worn bushings can lead to poor handling, noise over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
- Valve Cover Gasket Replacement: Leakage from the valve cover gasket has been reported. This can result in oil leaks, which may lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Brake Booster Replacement: Issues with the brake booster have been highlighted. A faulty brake booster can affect braking performance, requiring replacement to ensure safe operation.
- Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover: Problems related to the air conditioning system refrigerant recovery have been mentioned. Issues with refrigerant levels can impact the cooling efficiency of the AC system.
- Suspension System Inspection: Owners have reported the need for regular inspection of the suspension system. This is crucial for maintaining proper alignment, handling, and overall vehicle safety.
- Body Control System Diagnosis & Testing: Complaints include issues with the body control system, requiring diagnostic testing to identify and rectify any malfunctions affecting various vehicle functions.
- Air Conditioning Refrigerant Line Replacement: Problems with the air conditioning refrigerant lines have been noted. Leaks or damage to these lines can result in reduced cooling capacity and may require replacement.
- Wheel Alignment: Complaints regarding wheel alignment issues have been reported. Proper wheel alignment is essential for tire wear, handling, and overall driving comfort.
These common problems reported by owners of the Mitsubishi Expo 1994 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and safety on the road.
1994 Mitsubishi Expo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Expo problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Visibility problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Mitsubishi Expo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Mitsubishi Expo complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Mitsubishi Expo.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-02
- VIN: JA3EB30G6RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES: THE TRANSFER CASE INSIDE THE TRANMISSION LOCKED UP WITHOUT WARNING. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JA3ED59G3RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION LOCKED UP WHILE REVERSING. THE VEHICLE NO LONGER SHIFTS INTO ANY GEAR. *TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-21
- VIN: JA3ED59G7RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PASSING A TRUCK ON SMALL HILL AND LOST POWER. HAD NO GEARS AT ALL. NO FORWARD OR REVERSE. HAD TO TAKE ACTION TO GET OFF ROAD. DT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JA3EE59G5RZ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE WILL COMPLETELY SHUTDOWN, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-02
- VIN: JA3ED59G3RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOV EVEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JA3ED59C0RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED. NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-06
- VIN: JA3ED59G4RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ON JULY 6, 1999, AT APPROXIMATELY 7:00 P.M. WHILE DRIVING THE ABOVE MENTIONED VEHICLE I HEARD A THUMP AND NOTICED THE CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. I WAS GOING APROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND HAD TO SWERVE ONTO THE SHOULDER TO AVOID BEING REAR ENDED. IT IS NOTED, ON MARCH 12, 1999, I BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER AFTER NOTICING A JERK BETWEEN 1ST AND 2ND GEARS. I WAS CHARGED $95.00 FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND WAS TOLD THE TRANSMISSION WAS FINE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-06
- VIN: JA3ED59G4RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ON JULY 6, 1999, AT APPROXIMATELY 7:00 P.M. WHILE DRIVING THE ABOVE MENTIONED VEHICLE I HEARD A THUMP AND NOTICED THE CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. I WAS GOING APROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND HAD TO SWERVE ONTO THE SHOULDER TO AVOID BEING REAR ENDED. IT IS NOTED, ON MARCH 12, 1999, I BROUGHT THIS VEHICLE TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER AFTER NOTICING A JERK BETWEEN 1ST AND 2ND GEARS. I WAS CHARGED $95.00 FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND WAS TOLD THE TRANSMISSION WAS FINE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-23
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING SHFTED TRANSMISSION GEAR IN REVERSE, HEARD A NOISE ,AND TRANSMISSION LOCKED. UP. DEALER CONTACTED, AND STATED THA TTRANSMISSION IS NOT REBUILDABLE. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-24
- VIN: JA3ED59G3RZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: REPLACED SHATTERED TORQUE CONVERTER AND DRIVESHAFT.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-20
- VIN: JA3ED59GXRZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY (TORQUE CONVERTER, PLANETARY GEAR).
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURES CAUSING VEHICLE TO JUMP OUT OF GEAR.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-15
- VIN: JA3ED59G0RZ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT CLEAN THE WINDSHIELD IN HEAVY WINDS OR SNOW, REDUCING VISIBILITY, ALSO STRONG WINDS WILL LIFT WIPERS FROM WINDSHIELD. (FIRST VEHICLE ON 601593)
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-01
- VIN: JA3ED59G7RZ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAIL TO CLEAR WINDSHIELD DURING HARD RAIN OR SNOW, IMPEDING VISIBILITY, ALSO, STRONG WINDS LIFT WIPER ARM AWAY FROM THE WINDSHIELD. (SECOND VEHICLE ON 503397)
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AFTER HITTING A CURB, DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA3ED59GXRZ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DURING FRONT END COLLISION, AIRBAG DEPLOYED CAUSING 2ND DEGREE BURNS TO DRIVER. TT
1994 Mitsubishi Expo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1994 Mitsubishi Expo.
- 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.
Positive 1994 Mitsubishi Expo car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Mitsubishi Expo problems:
1994 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
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Get 1995 Mitsubishi Expo repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mitsubishi mechanics near you.
Other years of Mitsubishi Expo
Are you having problems with your 1994 Mitsubishi Expo?
Abel Conroy 2025-01-01
Bottom Line, your 94 Expo Lrv has 230,000 miles on it, and a cylinder leak down test showed that the motor still has 90% compression. That's amazing! Sixteen years and 230K miles without any worries is a testament to the quality of Mitsubishi vehicles. It's great to hear that this used 94 Expo has won you over, and I'm sure you'll always have a Mitsubishi in your garage!
Jerrod Beatty 2024-11-03
This is quite an interesting vehicle when it comes to styling. It almost looks like a platypus if you view it from a certain angle. But if you're in search of a car that has a high ride, can hold a massive amount of cargo and is fuel-efficient, then this is definitely worth considering.
Sylvan Donnelly 2024-10-20
This car has been incredibly reliable and versatile. The cargo room with seats folded down is simply amazing. Even after 172,000 miles, the mileage is still an impressive 19/27 and the engine is running strong. The car has only needed normal maintenance such as fluids, brakes, tires, tune-ups, front struts, axles, and a catalytic converter. The only unusual repairs were a bad distributor and a leak in the gas tank. The transmission still shifts smoothly. Although the car seems to go through brakes and the rotors tend to warp, the Expo handles well and is very easy to park. The 4 cylinder engine is adequate, straining only when fully loaded and going uphill with the AC on. This has been an excellent car for a large family with small kids and is still a daily driver.
Russel Harvey 2024-10-19
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.
Obie Hane 2024-09-24
Great news! There have been no mechanical problems, just routine maintenance.