Mitsubishi Problems

MODERN engines are designed to be driven away from a cold start with no warming up, so doing that doesn't damage the engine. Your problem is probably the carburettor or the supply of warm air. Warm air is normally piped into the carburettor in the first few minutes of driving, and this is often dumped when the engine is worked on later in life. It could also be wear in the carburettor or simply an incorrect adjustment of the carburettor or choke. Have the carburettor settings checked, and check it for wear.

THERE is really only one way to do it so it doesn't happen again and that's to remove the headlining and have it re-installed. Any trimmer can do it. If you don't do it properly, it will only come adrift again.

GO FOR one of the reputable brands when selecting a system, such as Impco, Sprintgas, Apollogas and Vic Autogas Supplies. If you go for a dual-fuel system and follow the recommended protocol of regularly running it on petrol to lubricate the valves and valve seats, you shouldn't have any trouble.

NEITHER is the sort of car I would own, but that isn't important to you because it's your choice, not mine. It really comes down to what you want from the car. The Calais is a comfortable car that will be quite reliable and the 3.8-litre ECOTEC V6 is reasonably fuel efficient. The Magna is sportier, handles well with plenty of get up and go. It is also reliable and stands up well. But at the end of the day, it's your money.

THE belt deteriorates with age as well as kilometres. I would recommend you have it changed. The potential consequences of not doing it far outweigh the saving from not doing it.

THE dealer is right. The law allows a 10 per cent margin of error and there is no way to adjust it. I don't know how you determined the errors, but most methods of measurement have their own errors. The best way to check accuracy is by global positioning.

Unless you need a vehicle capable of driving over rough or slippery ground, I would buy a 2WD diesel ute. It will be more economical than a 4WD and will tow your trailer without problems. Your budget will get you an upmarket ute. Look at the Toyota Hilux or new Mitsubishi Triton. Also, there are good deals available on the Mazda Bravo and Ford Courier for much less. For little more than $20,000 you'll get a 2WD diesel with a tray and toolbox.

THERE are many possible causes, but the Magna is known to break engine mounts, so start by inspecting those. A broken mount lets the engine move as the engine load changes, which is more pronounced in lower gears.

IF YOU don't drive your car often, it is a good idea to start it regularly to circulate the oil and keep the battery charged. Once a week would be good, but it wouldn't matter if it was once every few weeks.

THAT figure is too high. Mitsubishi expert Des Seaton suggests you check the temperature sensor and the oxygen sensors. If the sensors are malfunctioning it could mean the computer is supplying too much fuel.