EngineHigh
1.8 DI-D diesel injector and DPF problems on short-run cars
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look for smoke on a cold start and check DPF warnings clear on a run
MI
2010–2023 Mitsubishi ASX · common problems & known faults
A long-lived compact crossover that is cheap to buy and simple to fix, but early diesels and tired suspension can turn a bargain into a workshop job.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2010–2023 Mitsubishi ASX are 1.8 DI-D diesel injector and DPF problems on short-run cars, Dual-mass flywheel (DMF) wear causing clutch judder and metallic rattling at idle and Rear shock absorbers weeping and bushes perishing. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Mitsubishi ASX.
5.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
SuspensionMedium
Rear shock absorbers weeping and bushes perishing
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for oil on the damper bodies and bounce each corner
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Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Reversing camera and infotainment dropouts on later cars
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle the camera and screen several times from cold
BodyworkMedium
Corrosion on the tailgate lip and around the rear arches
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Run a hand along the tailgate seam and inspect arch lips for bubbling
BrakesMedium
Rear brakes seizing on low-mileage cars that sit
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive and feel for the car pulling, then check rear disc temperature after a run
TransmissionHigh
Dual-mass flywheel (DMF) wear causing clutch judder and metallic rattling at idle.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold in neutral. Listen for a metallic rattle from the bellhousing. Depress the clutch pedal halfway to feel for excessive pulsation or judder through your foot.
SteeringMedium
Front MacPherson strut top mount bearings seizing, causing spring-binding noises.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running and the vehicle stationary on the forecourt, turn the steering wheel fully lock-to-lock. Listen for a distinct groaning or 'twanging' spring noise from the front turrets.
ElectricalLow
Electric folding wing mirror internal plastic gears stripping, preventing operation.
- Typically appears
- 5-8 years
- What to inspect
- Press the mirror fold button on the driver's door switch pack. Verify both mirrors fold completely flush and listen closely for any continuous clicking or grinding noises from the housings.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Which ASX engine is most reliable?
The 1.6 petrol is the simplest and least troublesome for low-mileage town use.
Is the ASX cheap to run?
Parts and labour are inexpensive, which is a big part of its appeal to dealers.
Does the CVT cause problems?
It is generally durable if the fluid has been changed; ask for evidence before you buy.
Should I worry about rust?
On pre-2015 cars, yes; check the tailgate and arches closely.
Do the ASX engines use a timing belt or a timing chain?
The 1.6-litre petrol and Mitsubishi-developed 1.8-litre DI-D diesel engines use a timing chain, which generally lasts the life of the vehicle if serviced correctly. However, the PSA-sourced 1.6-litre DI-D diesel, introduced around 2015, uses a timing belt requiring replacement every 112,000 miles or 10 years.
How robust is the selectable 4WD system on the ASX?
The electronically controlled 4WD system is highly reliable and rarely suffers mechanical failures. Unlike some rivals, it avoids a complex Haldex setup requiring frequent fluid changes. However, dealers should verify the transfer box and rear differential fluids have been replaced at the scheduled 50,000-mile intervals to prevent premature component wear.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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