Mitsubishi Pajero Diesel Problems

The diesel engine has a chain, so there's no requirement to replace it as there is with a belt.

This sounds like a classic case of a vehicle with a fuel pump that has died. Electric fuel pumps have a very finite lifespan and, when they stop, they do so suddenly, for no apparent reason and with the result that the engine will simply not start or run at all. By spraying starting fluid into the engine, you’re giving it a sniff of fuel; enough to make it fire, but not run for long.

You’re probably looking at a new fuel pump, but don’t forget to check fuses and relays, the lines for leaks and the various fuel filters for cleanliness.

It has a timing chain, which doesn't need to be replaced as a toothed belt does, but it's worth checking the timing chain guides as they wear and if the wear is allowed to become excessive they can fail and possibly jam the chain, which could cause significant and expensive damage to the engine. Around 90,000 km seems to be the danger period where failures can occur.

Mitsubishi claims an average of 9.1L/100km, 8.0L/100km on country driving and 11.1L/100km around town, so at 8.5L/100km it's on the money fuel-wise. The lack of power does seem an issue and I would have it checked by your dealer at the next service. After 10,000km it should be performing near its best.

I WOULD like to be able to confirm that the problem with the 3-litre turbodiesel engine has been fixed, but I can't. My attempts to get Nissan to own up to a fix have been a dismal failure. All it would tell me is it would take care of owners of any Patrol that had an engine problem. Read into that what you will.

You need a proper four-wheel drive and, with that budget, I'd suggest a Mitsubishi Pajero.

The Mitsubishi Pajero is actually regarded as a very reliable vehicle, so your experience is not typical. There are several potential causes for this, but the thing I’d check first would be the air filter. Is it possible this was overlooked during the recent service? A blocked or dirty air filter will certainly make an engine blow smoke and operate poorly.

I’m assuming your vehicle is a diesel, so it would be worth checking the suction-control valve on the back of the fuel pump, too. Also, a stuck injector that is pouring fuel into the engine can also potentially create these symptoms. I’ve also heard of the Pajero diesel suffering from a build-up of black gunk inside the intake system that can also cause symptoms like the ones you’ve described.

I don’t believe that what you want is out there, and can only reiterate past advice, buy a Patrol/Pajero/Prado/LandCruiser.

The engine light is telling you that there is a problem, and the diagnostic check indicated it was a problem with the DPF, which needs replacing or cleaning.

It’s not covered by the warranty, as it’s a normal wear-and-tear item. On the surface it doesn’t appear that you are being unfairly treated.

I don't believe so; they're mainly fitted to prevent water getting into the engine when crossing creeks and rivers etc.