Mitsubishi Problems

It's very hard to put a value on old cars like your father's. An average Magna of that age is usually worn out and worth next to nothing, but your father's being a low-mileage example in good condition might make $2500.

We couldn't get any definitive info on the release date, and no one was giving away any details of pricing. All we were told is to expect an announcement soon. But with the special deals on the current LS running out on September 30, I would guess the new model is due shortly after that date.

I agree with your view of going Japanese for reliability. The Lancer would be one I would recommend, along with the Mazda3 and the Toyota Corolla. They're comfortable, fuel-efficient, safe, and have decent performance.

That all sounds like dealer speak for "I haven't got a clue what's wrong." There shouldn't be an undue delay in starting, the engine should crank immediately the key is turned of the starter pressed, and the engine should start within a couple of seconds. If it doesn't there is something wrong. The power steering shouldn't drop out, if it does as you say there is again something wrong. Take it back to your dealer and ask then to investigate the problems and fix them.

It would seem that there is an electronic issue with your car; the challenge for the dealer is to find the cause so it can be fixed. The car is still in warranty so you should be pressing the dealer and Mitsubishi to fix it, and fast. Go back to the dealer and find out when the Mitsubishi rep will be checking your car. If you get no satisfaction from the dealer, go directly to Mitsubishi's customer assistance people (Ph: 1300 13 12 11) and explain your problem to them.

The cold cranking power required to start an engine first thing in the morning when it’s cold is much higher than when it is a little warmer, as it is later in the day. Make sure your battery has sufficient cold cranking power to do the job. If the battery is too small, even if it’s new, it might not have the power needed to crank a V6. If it does have sufficient power then look to the starter. If the starter is not throwing in it could be worn.

I agree, they've issued the recalls and as far as I can see it is Mitsubishi's responsibility to see they are actioned. Their attitude would suggest they aren't terribly interested in safety. Go back to Mitsubishi and suggest to them they need to take more interest in what is a safety issue serious enough for them to issue a recall. If that gets you nowhere write to the company's headquarters in Adelaide and address the letter to the CEO, Mutsuhiro Oshikiri.

I would be looking at the injectors first. Worn injectors are common in modern common-rail diesel engines; it could also be a sticking injector. You could also check the low and high-pressure fuel systems.

From my experience, the Grand Vitara has the best reputation for reliability and for you it ticks the boxes. Next would be the Honda CR-V, then the Dualis with the ASX definitely last.