One of the longest-running compact crossovers in Europe, produced largely unchanged from 2010 to 2022. The 1.6 MIVEC petrol with 5-speed manual is the simplest drivetrain offered, using conventional port injection rather than direct injection. Parts are affordable and the 4A92 engine is fundamentally robust, though the timing chain system and corrosion resistance deserve attention on higher-mileage examples.
Simple, proven drivetrain
Affordable parts and servicing
Timing chain tensioner wear
Tailgate corrosion on many cars
Buy if: You want a reliable, no-nonsense compact crossover with low running costs and a manual gearbox.
Avoid if: You need AWD or an automatic, or if the car has cold-start rattle or visible tailgate rust.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
Common Problems
Chain stretches and tensioner loses pressure, causing cold-start rattle · more· less
The 4A92 engine uses a timing chain rather than a belt, designed to last the engine's lifetime. However, the hydraulic tensioner can lose pressure over time, allowing the chain to develop slack. Symptoms include a distinctive rattle for the first few seconds after cold start, which disappears once oil pressure builds. This typically appears between 100,000-150,000 km. If ignored, the chain can skip a tooth and cause valve damage. Replacement involves the chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets. At an independent shop, expect €800-1,200; at a dealer, €1,400-1,800. Mitsubishi has released updated tensioner parts for later production runs.
Rust develops around the boot switch and between upper/lower tailgate panels · more· less
A well-documented issue across all ASX model years. The tailgate develops rust around the boot switch area and between the upper and lower panels, caused by uneven sealant application at the factory that allows water ingress. Early signs are paint bubbling around the switch. If caught early, a localised repair costs €300-500. If the corrosion has spread between panels, a full tailgate respray or replacement runs €800-1,200. Mitsubishi has addressed some cases under the perforation rust warranty (typically 12 years), so check eligibility. Cars from 2010-2015 are most commonly affected.
Individual coils fail causing misfires and rough running, typically after 80,000 km · more· less
The 4A92 uses individual coil-on-plug ignition coils that can fail with age and mileage. Symptoms include rough idle, misfires under load, and check engine light with codes P0301-P0304. A single coil costs €30-60 for aftermarket, €60-90 for OEM. Labor is minimal as the coils are easily accessible. It is recommended to replace all four coils at once as a preventive measure. Total cost including spark plugs: €150-400 depending on parts choice. This is a common issue on most 4-cylinder engines and not specific to the 4A92.
Anti-roll bar links, ball joints, and strut mounts wear causing knocking noises · more· less
The ASX's front suspension uses MacPherson struts with separate anti-roll bar links and lower control arms with integrated ball joints. Anti-roll bar links are the most common failure, producing a knocking sound over bumps, typically after 60,000-80,000 km. These are inexpensive (€20-40 per link, €50-100 labor per side). Lower ball joints and strut top mounts also wear, especially on cars that see rough roads. A full front suspension refresh with links, ball joints, and strut mounts costs €300-800 depending on how many components need replacement. TUV inspectors frequently flag these items.
Weld between rear muffler and tailpipe cracks, risking tailpipe detachment · more· less
Mitsubishi issued a recall (KBA reference 14480R) for ASX models built between 2011 and 2019 because the weld between the rear silencer and tailpipe can crack, potentially causing the tailpipe to detach while driving. Even if the recall work was completed, the underlying weld quality means this area remains a weak point. An aftermarket replacement rear section costs €200-350 including fitting. A dealer OEM replacement runs €400-600. Inspect the exhaust from underneath, paying attention to the joint between the silencer and tailpipe.
Piston ring wear leads to increased oil burning, typically after 120,000 km · more· less
Some 4A92 engines develop increased oil consumption after 120,000 km due to piston ring wear or valve stem seal degradation. Symptoms include needing to top up oil between services and faint blue smoke on acceleration. If consumption stays below 0.5L per 1,000 km, regular top-ups (€100-150/year in oil) are the cheapest solution. If consumption is excessive, a piston ring replacement costs €2,000-2,500 including labor. This affects a minority of engines, typically those with irregular oil change histories.
Generally reliable but watch for rust and timing chain wear
The ASX 1.6 MIVEC is a straightforward, mechanically simple crossover. The 4A92 engine with port injection and manual gearbox is one of the most reliable drivetrain combinations in this segment. Main concerns are the timing chain tensioner at higher mileages and tailgate corrosion, which affects many examples regardless of mileage. Front suspension components wear at normal rates but are affordable to replace. Electrical issues are minor. With proper maintenance and rust prevention, this is a low-cost ownership proposition.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Exhaust tailpipe detachment — weld crack between silencer and tailpipe (2011-2019 models, KBA 14480R)
Verify completed
Brake booster switch sleeve — pedal may not release, vehicle unable to restart (2010-2012 models)
Verify completed
Drive belt auto-tensioner flange crack — belt may slip under high load (through 2012)
Verify completed
Tailgate gas strut pin — strut may detach due to corrosion (2010-2014 models)
Verify completed
Wiper linkage seizure — water ingress causes corrosion (2013-2016 models)
Verify completed
ECU battery charge detection — vehicle may shut off unexpectedly (2011-2018 models)
Verify completed
Contact a Mitsubishi dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. The exhaust tailpipe recall (KBA 14480R) and ECU battery detection issue are particularly important to check.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (5 years / 100,000 km)
Expired on most used ASX models
Perforation rust warranty (12 years)
May still apply to 2014+ models — check with dealer
Extended warranty
Available through Mitsubishi dealers, varies by market
Mitsubishi offers a 5-year / 100,000 km factory warranty in Europe. Most used ASX models will be outside this coverage. The 12-year perforation rust warranty may still be relevant for tailgate corrosion issues on newer examples.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.