1992 Mitsubishi Precis

Introduction

The 1992 Mitsubishi Precis was a subcompact car that was available with two engine options: a 1.5-liter inline-four engine and a 1.8-liter inline-four engine. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Precis was praised for its fuel efficiency and affordability, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor handling.

Engine

1.5-liter Inline-Four Engine

• Leaking Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover can cause a burning smell, smoke, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clogged Fuel Filter
  • Description/Symptoms: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow to the engine, causing it to run poorly or stall.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8-liter Inline-Four Engine

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed timing belt can cause the engine to lose timing, resulting in catastrophic damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed intake manifold gasket can cause a vacuum leak, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifter Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or broken shifter bushings can make it difficult to shift gears or cause the shifter to become loose.
  • Solution: Replace the shifter bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed clutch master cylinder can cause the clutch to become inoperable, making it impossible to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: A leak in the transmission can cause fluid loss, leading to slipping gears, rough shifting, and eventual transmission failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failed solenoids can cause the transmission to shift erratically or not shift at all.
  • Solution: Replace the failed solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged strut mounts can cause a clunking sound when driving over bumps, excessive tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar End Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or worn sway bar end links can cause a rattling or knocking sound when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed alternator can cause the battery to drain, leading to starting problems and a loss of electrical power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A dead or weak battery can prevent the car from starting or cause electrical problems.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur on the body panels, frame, and other metal parts of the car.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Fabric Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat fabric can wear or tear over time, causing the interior to look worn and unkempt.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard of the Precis is known to crack over time, especially if exposed to excessive heat or sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Mitsubishi Precis is a budget-friendly subcompact car with a few common issues. Engine problems are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, but transmission issues can be more serious and costly. Suspension and electrical problems are generally not very severe, and interior issues are mostly cosmetic. Overall, the Precis is a reliable and affordable car for those on a tight budget.