Mitsubishi Triton 2014 Problems

We passed the above response from Mitsubishi on to Jodie and Nick. Unfortunately they don't feel that it has been addressed and they believe the issue remains unresolved. We have again contacted Mitsubishi on their behalf to attempt to clarify the company's offer to replace the differential as stated in John Taylor's response to us.

The rear springs have sagged, which is common on the Triton and some other Mitsubishi models. It could well be the cause of your problem. Most owners choose to fit uprated springs to their vehicles, particularly if they're carrying loads.

The new HiLux and Triton will arrive in the first half of next year. If you're planning a five-year run for your new ute it would be worth waiting to see how the pecking order changes once they're in place.

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.

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.

Company spokeswoman Shayna Welsh replies: "Mitsubishi Motors Australia understands the customer's concerns and, as a result, has offered to provide a full inspection with a representative of MMAL's Service team at the customers' earliest convenience. MMAL will also arrange rectification in accordance with Mitsubishi's New-Car Warranty and provide a loan vehicle to the customer for the duration of the repairs, which we expect will take no more than three days."

We have heard of one similar problem on a fleet of Tritons run by an earthmoving contractor in Victoria. He ran the Tritons alongside similar vehicles from other makers, and it was only the Tritons that suffered from rear suspension sag. We were told that the answer in his case was to fit the optional heavy-duty suspension, even though he had been assured by the dealer that the standard vehicle was perfectly suited to the work he was doing. I would suggest that you go back to your dealer and have him check the vehicle's suspension. Alternatively you could consult a suspension specialist who should be able to diagnose your problem.