Credov's researched list of the 5 faults the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 is known for (2007–2019), 5 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Check the ABS, ASC and 4WD lights come on with the key and go out after starting, staying off on the drive.
Why it matters: A sudden voltage dip (long idling with the A/C on) can also set the lights. While the lights are on, ABS, stability control and the 4WD coupling control are switched off, so the van brakes and drives like a basic 2WD without ABS. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$250-$700 range.
What to look for: With the engine cold, torch the radiator tanks and seams for pink or green crust or wet patches.
Why it matters: Stop-leak products do not fix it; the usual repair is a complete new radiator, often done together with hoses and the radiator cap. If it is ignored the engine can overheat, and on the diesel an overheat is very expensive. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$500-$1,100 range.
What to look for: Lie beside the van with a torch and check the muffler, fuel filler neck and lower arms for flaking rust.
Why it matters: Brake caliper pistons and slides also seize on snow-country or long-parked vans; a dragging brake overheats, wears one side and pulls the van (one 200,000 km owner's main repair at 150,000 km was a seized brake). Surface rust is cosmetic, but a rusted filler neck can leak fuel and rotten brake lines, seized calipers or rusted arms are a safety problem. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$300-$2,500 range.
What to look for: Listen at idle in P, R and D, then for a whine or drone from 40-80 km/h and on lift-off.
Why it matters: Typical symptoms: a dynamo-like whine on take-off and deceleration (one 2007 van at 125,000 km; the dealer would only replace the whole CVT, about 700,000 yen new), a droning noise that rises with speed from about 60 km/h, slipping when climbing steep slopes in reverse, and flare or delayed drive. Heavy vans, towing and fluid neglect make it worse. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,500-$8,000 range.
What to look for: Watch for a DPF warning light at start-up and during the drive, and for heavy black smoke under load.
Why it matters: Using the wrong engine oil (see DL-1 note) adds ash that blocks the DPF permanently. A forced regeneration or professional clean fixes early cases; a cracked or ash-full DPF needs replacing. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$600-$4,500 range.
Got a question about a Mitsubishi Delica D:5? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.