EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
11 November 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
The most frequent complaints with the Mitsubishi L200 concern the diesel particulate filter, especially with the 2.5 Di-D engines with 136 hp and 178 hp. The particulate filter regularly becomes clogged, which leads to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption and the engine control light coming on. These problems manifest themselves particularly in vehicles that are mainly used for short journeys, as the filter does not reach sufficiently high temperatures for self-cleaning. Typical symptoms are a juddering engine at idle, black smoke from the exhaust and a noticeable reduction in performance. The reliability of the system is highly dependent on the driving style, with the first problems occurring as early as 40,000 km and a second wave of problems often appearing between 80,000-100,000 km.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the particulate filter. The sensitive Mitsubishi L200 particulate filter systems require regular highway driving at a minimum of 2000 rpm for 20 minutes to allow full regeneration. For diagnosis, the vehicle should be checked with an OBD scanner for corresponding fault codes, with codes P2002 and P2004 occurring frequently. Professional cleaning or replacement of the filter may be necessary, although preventative measures such as the use of diesel additives and regular long-distance driving can significantly extend the service life.
The all-wheel drive system of the Mitsubishi L200 shows recurring weak points, which manifest themselves in various symptoms. The electronic control of the all-wheel drive system does not function properly, which is manifested by the permanent illumination of the 4WD warning light, unusual noises when shifting between modes or limited traction. Models from 2006 onwards are particularly affected, with the faults often being caused by defective sensors, worn clutches in the transfer case or problems with the electronic control unit. The breakdowns occur more frequently after 80,000-120,000 km, but can occur in individual cases from as little as 60,000 km. A second main problem lies at 150,000-180,000 km, when wearing parts such as clutches and bearings reach the end of their service life.
A systematic check is essential for the proper functioning of the drive system. The complex Mitsubishi L200 all-wheel drive components require regular checks of the transmission oils, sensors and mechanical parts every 40,000 km. Diagnosis is carried out by reading out the fault codes, with codes C121A (all-wheel drive clutch) or C1210 (transfer case sensor) frequently occurring. Professional maintenance with special transmission oil and the timely repair of defective components can prevent major damage to the costly all-wheel drive system.
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MOBIL Engine oil
0W-40, 4l
Article number: 153687
£41.99
£10.50
for 1 litre
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BOSCH Bulb
12V 10W
Article number: 1 987 301 014
£1.99
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LIQUI MOLY Engine oil
5W-30, 5l
Article number: 3707
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£71.35
£53.99
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SKF Bellow Set, drive shaft
146 mm, with clamps
Article number: VKJP 01001
£9.99£19.98 / Price per 2 items
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£21.99
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The automatic transmissions of the Mitsubishi L200, especially in the newer 2018 models with 181 hp, show characteristic defects in shift quality. The transmission does not shift smoothly, does not jump into certain gears or remains in low ratios for too long. Typical complaints include hard shift shocks, delayed reactions when accelerating or the complete absence of gear changes. These problems are often caused by worn clutches, defective solenoid valves or problems with the transmission control unit. The first symptoms can occur as early as 50,000-70,000 km, with a second wave of problems occurring frequently between 120,000-150,000 km. The service life of the automatic transmission depends heavily on maintenance and driving style, whereby frequent towing can accelerate the problems.
Professional maintenance is crucial for the reliability of the automatic transmission. The precise Mitsubishi L200 automatic transmission components require a regular oil change every 60,000 km as well as checking the oil level and oil quality. Diagnosis is carried out by reading out the fault codes and taking a test drive, with codes such as P0730 (transmission slip) or P0750 (shift solenoid valve) occurring frequently. Timely repair of defective solenoid valves or a complete transmission service can restore functionality and prevent expensive consequential damage.
The engine control unit of the Mitsubishi L200 frequently exhibits faults that manifest themselves in various symptoms. The control unit does not function correctly, which can lead to starting problems, loss of power, irregular engine running or complete engine failure. Older models from 2006 and newer vehicles with high mileage are particularly affected. The causes often lie in defective capacitors, corroded contacts or software errors in the control unit. These breakdowns mainly occur after 100,000-150,000 km, but can also occur earlier under unfavorable conditions such as humidity or temperature fluctuations. A characteristic feature is that the engine does not start or only runs in the emergency running program. The reliability of the system decreases significantly with age, with a second wave of problems often occurring between 180,000-220,000 km.
A professional inspection is required to correctly diagnose control unit problems. The sensitive Mitsubishi L200 engine control units require professional fault diagnosis with special software and, if necessary, reprogramming or complete replacement. The diagnosis includes reading out all error codes, checking the power supply and the signal lines. Common error codes are P0601 (control unit checksum) or P0606 (processor error). Preventive maintenance through protection against moisture and regular software updates can significantly extend the service life of the control unit.
The fuel pump of the Mitsubishi L200 shows recurring weak points, especially in vehicles with higher mileage. The high-pressure pump does not work properly, resulting in starting problems, loss of power and irregular engine running. Typical symptoms are an engine that is difficult to start, especially in cold temperatures, a drop in power under load or complete engine failure. These problems affect both the 136 hp and 178 hp variants of the 2.5 Di-D engine and occur more frequently between 120,000-160,000 km. An earlier wave of problems can occur as early as 80,000 km, especially in vehicles with poor fuel quality or infrequent filter changes. The service life of the fuel pump depends heavily on the fuel quality and regular maintenance.
Regular maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of the fuel supply system. The precise Mitsubishi L200 fuel pump systems require regular filter changes every 40,000 km and the use of high quality diesel with appropriate additives. Diagnosis is carried out by measuring the pressure in the fuel system, whereby the target pressure should be around 1600 bar. If the pressure drops or is irregular, the high-pressure pump must be replaced. Preventive treatment through regular fuel system cleaning can significantly extend the service life and avoid expensive repairs.
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VALEO Antifreeze
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Article number: 820734
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FANFARO Transmission fluid
75W-80, Capacity: 1l
Article number: FF8710-1
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Valvoline Engine oil
5W-30, 4l
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£35.49
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MOBIL Engine oil
5W-30, 5l
Article number: 150944
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£36.49
£7.30
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LIQUI MOLY Engine oil
5W-30, 5l, Synthetic Oil
Article number: 3756
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£73.77
£49.49
£9.90
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Based on the experience of Mitsubishi L200 owners, the following additional problems occur:
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Robust construction for heavy loads | Particulate filter clogging on short journeys |
| Reliable engines with good maintenance | All-wheel drive system electronic problems |
| High towing capacity up to 3,500 kg | Automatic transmission shifting problems |
| Good off-road capability | Engine control unit failures |
| Generous warranty conditions | Fuel pump wear |
| Low maintenance costs for self-repair | High workshop costs |
| Durable bodywork | Electronic complexity |
The Mitsubishi L200 proves to be a fundamentally robust work vehicle, but it has specific weak points that require regular attention. Most problems can be avoided through consistent maintenance and an adapted driving style. Regular regeneration of the particulate filter through highway driving and professional maintenance of the complex all-wheel drive system are particularly important. With appropriate care, the L200 can achieve a long service life and fully exploit its strengths as a versatile pick-up.
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