Mitsubishi Problems

Under consumer law, provided the servicing is done "by the book" with the correct standard of parts, all car companies must honour the warranty as if the car was serviced inside their dealer network. Some dealers might be a bit reluctant to help if you have not been loyal on servicing with them, but the bottom line is clear.

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.

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.

Rodney Jane of Bob Jane T-Marts reckons tyres are a grudge purchase and people nearly always want the cheapest rubber — but there is a sweet spot where you can get good value without compromising safety.

The Pajero ticks most of the boxes for a big four-wheel drive wagon. It's well built and reliable, and the diesel is economical. As for family use it is a big, heavy four-wheel drive and would be overkill for a family that doesn't plan on towing or going off-road. Look for signs of bush use and walk away if you see any damage to the body or underbody that might have been the result of driving off-road.

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.

Your story is getting far too common and, trust me, it's not just women who are being taken in by some unscrupulous dealers.