BodyworkHigh
Underbody and chassis corrosion, especially on towing vehicles
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the chassis, sills and rear crossmember thoroughly
MI
2007–2019 Mitsubishi Shogun · common problems & known faults
An old-school body-on-frame 4x4 that will run for ever if maintained, but ignored examples bring corrosion, transfer-box wear and diesel injection bills.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2007–2019 Mitsubishi Shogun are Underbody and chassis corrosion, especially on towing vehicles, 3.2 DI-D injector and turbo issues, sometimes cracked pistons on neglected cars and DPF warning light illuminated and rising engine oil levels due to diesel dilution from aborted regenerations. 4 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 Shogun.
3.7/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 4
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
3.2 DI-D injector and turbo issues, sometimes cracked pistons on neglected cars
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a diesel knock and check for blue smoke under load
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Build the inspection planTransmissionMedium
Transfer box and Super Select selection problems
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test the four-wheel-drive modes engage and disengage cleanly
SuspensionMedium
Front upper arm ball joints worn
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for play at the wheel and clonks at low speed
ElectricalLow
Rear tailgate wiring and central locking faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Lock and unlock repeatedly and test the tailgate glass
Engine / EmissionsHigh
DPF warning light illuminated and rising engine oil levels due to diesel dilution from aborted regenerations.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Pull the engine oil dipstick. If the oil level is significantly above the maximum 'X' mark and smells strongly of diesel, the DPF is failing to regenerate.
EngineHigh
Metallic rattling noise from the top front of the engine on cold start due to a worn or snapped top timing chain guide.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold and listen for a distinct metallic rattle. Remove the oil filler cap, shine a torch inside, and visually check the plastic top chain guide for cracks.
Fuel SystemMedium
Engine hesitation or stalling caused by dirt and water entering the fuel tank through a heavily corroded metal fuel filler neck.
- Typically appears
- 8-12 years
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch up into the rear offside wheel arch. Visually inspect the exposed metal fuel filler pipe for severe flaking rust, perforation, or damp diesel stains.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the 3.2 DI-D reliable?
It is durable with regular oil changes, but neglected examples can suffer serious engine damage.
Do I need to worry about rust?
Yes, this is the single most common reason a Shogun fails an MOT.
Is it good for towing?
It is one of the strongest tow cars of its era, which is exactly why so many are worn.
Are parts available?
Yes, mechanical parts are still widely available and reasonably priced.
How often does the automatic gearbox require servicing?
The five-speed automatic transmission requires a fluid and filter change every 45,000 miles or four years. Neglecting this schedule frequently results in harsh gear engagements, torque converter shudder, and premature internal wear. It is critical to verify this in the service history and ensure genuine Mitsubishi ATF SP III was used.
Are there any specific suspension issues to watch for during an alignment?
The rear suspension eccentric camber bolts frequently seize solid inside their bushes due to corrosion. While not an immediate MOT failure unless the bushes tear, it makes four-wheel alignment impossible without cutting out the old bolts with a reciprocating saw and replacing the entire rear lower control arms.
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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