BodyworkHigh
Chassis and rear-body corrosion on older working trucks
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the chassis rails, spring hangers and load bed underside for scaling
MI
2006–2023 Mitsubishi L200 · common problems & known faults
A working pickup with a strong following, but hard-worked examples hide chassis corrosion, clutch wear and expensive drivetrain repairs.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2006–2023 Mitsubishi L200 are Chassis and rear-body corrosion on older working trucks, Clutch and dual-mass flywheel wear from towing and 2.5 DI-D turbo and EGR issues causing low power. 5 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 L200.
3.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 5
- Medium
- 2
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionHigh
Clutch and dual-mass flywheel wear from towing
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for judder pulling away and a high biting point
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Build the inspection planEngineHigh
2.5 DI-D turbo and EGR issues causing low power
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test full throttle in third gear and watch for limp mode
SuspensionMedium
Rear leaf springs sagging and bushes worn on regularly loaded trucks
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look at ride height against the arches and check spring eyes
ElectricalLow
Corroded rear light and trailer wiring connectors
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test every light with the trailer socket connected
DrivetrainHigh
Flashing 4WD indicator lights and inability to engage or disengage four-wheel drive modes.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine idling, cycle the transfer box selector through all modes (2H, 4H, 4HLc, 4LLc). Ensure the dashboard 4WD lights turn solid within a few seconds; continuous flashing indicates seized actuators or faulty switches.
SteeringMedium
Noticeable clunking sound or physical play felt through the steering wheel during low-speed manoeuvres.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running and wheels pointing straight, gently rock the steering wheel left and right. Listen and feel for a distinct metallic knock from the footwell, indicating a worn steering column intermediate shaft.
Exhaust / EmissionsHigh
DPF warning lights and rising engine oil levels due to diesel dilution from failed regenerations.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Pull the engine oil dipstick and check if the fluid sits above the maximum limit or reaches the 'X' mark. Smell the dipstick for a strong, raw diesel odour which confirms severe oil dilution.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
What is the biggest risk buying an L200?
Chassis corrosion on older trucks that have carried salt or livestock.
How can I tell if it has towed heavily?
Look for a fitted towbar with worn ball, sagging rear springs and clutch judder.
Is the 2.4 later engine better?
Yes, the post-2015 2.4 DI-D is generally stronger and cleaner than the older 2.5.
Does commercial use affect the sale?
It affects VAT treatment and the wear you should expect, so confirm the history.
Do these L200 models use a timing belt or a timing chain?
It depends on the generation and engine. The Series 4 (2006-2015) with the 2.5-litre DI-D engine uses a timing belt, requiring replacement every 62,500 miles or five years. The later Series 5 and 6 (2015-2023) with the 2.4-litre MIVEC diesel utilise a timing chain, which requires strict oil changes to prevent stretching.
How do I identify if the truck has the Super Select 4WD system?
Look at the four-wheel drive selector dial or lever. Super Select systems feature four distinct positions: 2H, 4H, 4HLc, and 4LLc, allowing permanent four-wheel drive on tarmac in 4H. Easy Select systems only have 2H, 4H, and 4L, and must never be driven in four-wheel drive on dry, paved roads.
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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