Is the Mitsubishi MQ Triton a good value Ute?
Production dates for this now discontinued, Thai built MQ model were 2015 to 2018.
And by 2019 the dual cab 4WD MQ Triton, was placed second in Australia amongst best-selling 4WD’s.
The Mitsubishi MQ Triton has a 2.4L turbocharged engine coupled to a 6 speed transmission.
The MQ 4N15 diesel engine produces 133kW (@3500rpm) and 430Nm (@2500rpm).
Some would consider power inadequate as the power-plant is too small, with lag under acceleration.
But the smaller 4N15 2.4L diesel makes more power than previous MN Triton 4D56 2.5L.
And a significant 23% Torque increase (from 350Nm to 430Nm), over the MN Triton predecessor.
For most purposes this would suffice.
But still a little underwhelming under acceleration and towing, compared to the 3.0L Hilux and 3.2L Ford Ranger & Mazda BT-50.
Like other Mitsubishi vehicles, the Triton family of work horses are priced well compared to the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and Mazda BT-50 work range.
The Triton Ute Series has a great value proposition, priced at up to $20,000 less than it’s peers.
If you are willing to put up with some annoyances, and a bit less performance found in a cheaper production, they are a great vehicle.
Mitsubishi MQ Triton Turbo Problems
We focus on the Mitsubishi MQ Triton Turbo Problems herein, but similar can be said about the 2.5L 4D56 Diesel VT16 Turbo MN Triton predecessor.
Please also see: May 2024 update below for the MR Triton, regarding similar issues with the MR (manufactured from 2019 onward) Triton Turbocharger and engine sub-components.
There are 3 main areas of focus for Mitsubishi MQ Triton Turbo Problems.
And the problems all relate to excessive carbon build-up.
This is quite common amongst the Mitsubishi Diesels.
Given that the MR Triton is relatively new to the market, it is too early for us to assume if this continues through the MR Triton version.
But with the same 4N15 engine (although it does have a different Turbocharger), one might assume so (emission gear being equal).
May 2024 UPDATE on the above for the MR Triton:
Our anecdotal evidence now suggests confirmation that our assumptions on the above MQ Triton problems, are also present in the MR Triton.
So most of the information on this page for the MQ Triton, can also be read as relating to the MR Triton.
1) EGR Faults or blockages:
Faulty EGR (Exhaust Gas Reticulation) Valves cause excess carbonization in the Turbochargers VNT assembly.
The EGR Valve recirculates (to re-combust), some exhaust to burn out emissions.
And when the VNT assembly is excessively ‘coked’, the vanes inside the Turbochargers turbine housing fail to actuate correctly.
So the turbocharger will not be able to spool up or dump.
The symptoms are sluggish performance or overboost spikes, which may trigger ‘limp mode’ by the ECU.
And sometimes accompanied by a ‘whistle’ due to incorrect vane position.
Please do not have the EGR ‘blanked-off’, this voids warranty on engine and sub-components and is illegal due to emission laws.
And related to 1) above:
2) Excessive carbon build-up in the manifold:
A combination of factors can cause build-up in the manifold, or what we simply call ‘incorrect combustion’.
Causes include problems with injector seals, and problems (blockages) in engine breathing, recirculating oily crank gas.
Additionally, a worn turbocharger may allow oil bypass between the CHRA and compressor or Turbine housing to the same effect.
One or a combination of these factors, leads to excess ‘coking’ of the manifold.
That is why it is important (and an ideal time) to check / clean both EGR and manifold at Turbocharger Installation.
3) DPF Light on (and ECL at same time):
The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), traps and at high temperature burns out (some), diesel exhaust emissions.
And like all systems, faults can occur in the DPF system or driving styles can encourage blockage.
Consistent driving at low revs and little highway driving, slows burn out of trapped emissions.
So eventually the DPF clogs and creates back-pressure in the exhaust system.
Performance is degraded and the turbocharger is affected by the back pressure.
What can be done to alleviate the above issues?
– Have your vehicle serviced (especially oil & filter, with a high-quality fully synthetic oil), at regular intervals without skipping services.
– Periodically allow the vehicle to rev higher in 2nd and 3rd gear, with occasional runs at highway speed.
– Try running a cleaner through the aspiration system to clean the turbocharger VNT assembly and systems downstream.
What if I already have Mitsubishi MQ Triton Turbo Problems?
If the above does not solve the problem, then we recommend the turbocharger be replaced.
Replacement is cheaper than rebuilding original turbochargers, and you benefit from upgrade options and longer warranty periods.
And installing a new turbocharger is the ideal time to get the manifold, EGR Valve and DPF Filter checked and cleaned.
We stock a reliable, after-market Billet Mitsubishi MQ Triton Turbo Upgrade.
Additionally we stock a Billet Upgrade MR Triton Turbocharger.
And a Billet Mitsubishi MN Triton Turbo Upgrade, for the Diesel 2.5L MQ and MR Triton predecessor.
Our turbochargers have Triple the warranty (3 Years) of the original Mitsubishi turbochargers, at less than half the price.
And we supply a free installation Gasket Kit, plus Australia-wide free shipping.
If you have any other query on matching turbo parts, please contact our sales support on: 0490 059 316.