Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Mitsubishi Ralliart is known for (2008–2015), 3 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: Pull away gently from a stop several times, hot and cold, and feel for shudder, a clunk or a lurch.
Why it matters: Old or overheated SST fluid, clutch wear and the gearbox's adaptive learning all play a part. A clutch pack or valve body repair, or a replacement gearbox, is expensive and needs a specialist. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$3,000-$8,000 range.
What to look for: Check no AWC or 4WD warning light is on or flashing, then feel for binding turning tight circles slowly.
Why it matters: Symptoms are a flashing AWC or 4WD warning light, a fault code such as C161E (ACD pump actuator), and the centre diff defaulting to a fixed setting, which changes handling and can make the car feel like it binds in tight turns. A new pump unit is expensive. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$1,500-$4,500 range.
What to look for: At a stone-cold start, listen for a rattle from the timing end of the engine lasting more than a second.
Why it matters: Long oil change intervals make it much worse. A chain, guides and tensioner job is moderately expensive; a jumped chain means engine repair. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$1,500-$3,500 range.
Got a question about a Mitsubishi Ralliart? 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.