Credov's researched list of the 4 faults the Mitsubishi Triton MN is known for (2006–2015), 4 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: Lie beside the ute with a torch and tap the rails and rear spring hangers, checking for flaking or soft metal.
Why it matters: Surface rust is common; rotted or cracked rails can make the ute uneconomic to fix. Australian ex-coastal and NZ farm/fishing utes are the worst. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$900-$6,500 range.
What to look for: Make quick 2-3 and 4-3 changes, and downshift into third around 50-60 km/h, feeling for a crunch or baulk.
Why it matters: Sloppy gear lever feel is often just worn external linkage and lever bushes. A synchro fix means gearbox removal and rebuild. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$1,500-$3,500 range.
What to look for: Ask for a receipt or sticker showing both the timing belt and balance belt were changed, and listen for front-of-engine whine.
Why it matters: The crank pulley bolt must be torqued correctly on refit, as loose bottom pulleys after a belt job have wrecked engines. Ask for a dated receipt showing both belts. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$900-$1,800 range.
What to look for: Check the coolant for a stained header tank or white crust around the cap, and watch the gauge on a long climb.
Why it matters: A leaking EGR cooler can cause similar symptoms. Fix is a head gasket, often with head skim, around NZ$2,500-5,000. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,500-$5,500 range.
Got a question about a Mitsubishi Triton MN? 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.