2014 Mitsubishi Triton Pricing and Specs

From memory, this model Triton featured a dual-mass flywheel. These were fitted to smooth out the engine and make gear changes quieter and smoother. But when they fail, they can produce the sort of symptoms you’re hearing.

Instead of a one piece, solid flywheel, the dual-mass unit is made in two parts with flexible couplings between them. These couplings absorb some of the shock of gear-shifts and engine vibrations, but when they’re worn out, the whole assembly becomes `loose’ and starts producing clunks and bangs. Replacing the flywheel is the only fix, but make sure you replace the clutch assembly at the same time. Some companies also offer a single-piece flywheel conversion for this vehicle to prevent the problem occurring again.

Normally my advice would be to buy the newest car with the lowest kilometres and in the best condition. In this case that would be the Triton, which would also comes with what remains of the factory warranty, but on all other counts I would go with the Ranger. The Ranger appears to be in good condition, the kilometres are low for the year, and the service history is just what you want.

By how far did you miss the service? Was it by a 1000 kilometres or so, or did you miss it all together? If you missed the service by a few weeks or a few kilometres then I would not expect the engine to seize, but if you skipped the service completely I’m not surprised. I’m also guessing the warranty won’t be honoured because of the missed service, but depending on the circumstances surrounding the missed service you could try and negotiate with Mitsubishi for some cover.