1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT SL review from North America
"Nice style, performance, and handling, but expensive to maintain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
ABS system motor stays on after ignition is cut off. ABS system relay can be pulled for a day or two and reinstalled and the problem will go away for a few months.
Idle Control Speed (ISC) unit in the throttle body failed and lead to poor idle and stalling.
Electrical cooling fan resistor failed.
Rear wiper switch broken due to a poor design of plastic parts used on a pivot point.
Valve guides failed and lead to oil burning ($800) repair.
Electronic suspension went to firm setting by default when actuator in one strut failed ($550 to fix).
Infinity radio amplifier failed.
Passenger window electric motor fails to work once in a blue moon.
CD changer stopped reading Cds.
General comments?
This car is a nice model to own only for an enthusiast who likes the unique wide and low body style of the 3000GT. VR4 models are even more expensive to own because they have AWD, electronic climate control, etc.
NEVER buy one in bad shape in hopes of doing a "fix up". The parts are expensive for these cars and they require more and more care as they get older and out of warranty.
If you are looking for a sporty looking and fun to drive car it's for you. If you want cheap transportation STAY AWAY!
This car is also not well suited for urban areas with heavy traffic. It's a heavy car and kind of sluggish to use in stop and go driving. It's a dream on the interstate though.
I would buy another Mits car, but I'd expect to spend more $$$$ on things this time. My old Toyota Celica was a cheap car to own.
Recommended reviews
| Worth every penny :-) |
| 1994 - 3000GT VR4 3l V6 twin turbo Still looking for something better |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1994 |
| Year of manufacture | 1993 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 110000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 191000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Celica |
| Date of Entry | 6th March, 2005 |