1991 Mitsubishi Mighty Max

Introduction: The 1991 Mitsubishi Mighty Max was a compact pickup truck available with a choice of two engines and three transmission options. The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produced 88 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine produced 112 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 3-speed automatic. The Mighty Max was praised for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and off-road capabilities, but criticized for its lack of power and interior space.

Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder

• Blown head gasket: Caused by overheating or a defective gasket, resulting in coolant leaks and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and repair any damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket leak: Causes vacuum leaks and can lead to engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter 4-cylinder

• Crankshaft position sensor failure: Can cause intermittent starting issues or engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt failure: Can result in catastrophic engine damage if not replaced at regular intervals.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 5-speed Manual

• Synchronizer wear: Can cause difficulty shifting gears, especially into second and third.
  • Solution: Replace worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Occurs when the transmission cannot properly transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3-speed Automatic

• No issues found.

Suspension

• Worn front lower ball joints: Can cause clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and impaired handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaking rear shocks: Causes a rough ride and can lead to premature suspension component failure.
  • Solution: Replace leaking shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Can cause battery drain and leave the vehicle stranded.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure: Prevents the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replace starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusty rear bumper: Prone to corrosion due to exposure to road salt.
  • Solution: Replace bumper or remove and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked taillight lenses: Can occur due to impact or exposure to UV radiation.
  • Solution: Replace taillight lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Fading dashboard: Exposed to sunlight for extended periods, leading to discoloration and cracking.
  • Solution: Cover dashboard or replace with aftermarket unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken seat adjustment lever: Can prevent the driver from adjusting the seat position.
  • Solution: Replace seat adjustment lever.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: Overall, the 1991 Mitsubishi Mighty Max is a reliable and fuel-efficient pickup truck with some potential issues. The most severe and expensive to fix include blown head gaskets, transmission slippage, and crankshaft position sensor failure. However, many of the issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to address, and the Mighty Max remains a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and capable compact truck.