2013 Mitsubishi L200
The 2013 Mitsubishi L200 (also known as the Triton in some markets) is a popular pickup truck known for its ruggedness and reliability, although it isn’t without its common issues. Engine options for the 2013 L200 include a 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, which is the most common configuration and produces around 175 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque depending on the specific tune. Other engine options may include a 2.4-liter gasoline engine and a lower-powered version of the 2.5-liter diesel. Transmission options typically consist of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, although a 5-speed automatic may be available depending on the market. Owners often praise the L200 for its off-road capability and affordability, while common complaints revolve around ride comfort and some specific mechanical issues.
Engine
2.5L Turbo Diesel (4D56)
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, whistling noise from the turbocharger, engine warning light.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Check and clean or replace oil feed lines to the turbo to prevent future failures due to oil starvation.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, excessive smoke (white or black), engine knocking. Often affects Delphi injectors.
- Solution: Diagnose which injector is faulty. Replace the faulty injector(s) and reprogram the ECU if necessary. Ensure proper fuel filtration and use high-quality fuel.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor performance, engine warning light, excessive smoke.
- Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve. Check for carbon buildup in the intake manifold and clean it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cylinder Head Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant mixing with oil.
- Solution: Replace the cylinder head. Ensure proper cooling system maintenance to prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
2.4L Gasoline Engine (4G64)
- No Issues Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal feels soft or spongy, unusual noises when pressing the clutch pedal.
- Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Consider resurfacing the flywheel.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
4/5-Speed Automatic
- Slipping Gears/Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh shifts, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnosis may be required, including checking solenoids and valve body. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid/filter) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, rough ride, squeaking noises from the rear suspension.
- Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty leaf springs if the vehicle is frequently used for hauling heavy loads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per spring
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Shocks/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, leaking fluid from shocks/struts.
- Solution: Replace the shocks/struts. Replacing in pairs is recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ for a pair
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Central Locking Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking with the remote or central locking switch, intermittent operation.
- Solution: Check the door lock actuators, wiring harness, and central locking control module. Replace faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per actuator
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, slow engine cranking, dead battery.
- Solution: Test the alternator. If faulty, replace it. Check the battery and charging system wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, door sills, and underbody. Particularly prevalent in areas with harsh winter conditions or coastal environments.
- Solution: Treat rust with rust converter, body filler, and paint. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary. Apply rustproofing to prevent future rust.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ per area, depending on severity
- Tail Light Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the tail light lenses, allowing moisture to enter.
- Solution: Replace the tail light assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per tail light
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Repair the cracks with a dashboard repair kit or replace the dashboard. Using a sunshade can help prevent further cracking.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (repair), $500+ (replacement)
Summary
The 2013 Mitsubishi L200 is generally a reliable truck but is prone to certain issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the 2.5L turbo diesel engine, specifically turbocharger failure, fuel injector problems, and EGR valve issues. Suspension components like leaf springs and shocks are also common wear items. Electrical problems like central locking failures and alternator failure can also occur. While rust is a concern, it is preventable with proper maintenance. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely, with engine-related problems potentially costing the most. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and address any potential issues promptly to ensure long-term reliability.