Positioning:
The Mitsubishi 380 was an Australian-designed and manufactured large family sedan, positioned as a comfortable and reliable vehicle in its segment, competing with models like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon.
Competitors:
Key competitors during its production run included the Holden Commodore (VE series), Ford Falcon (BF series), and Toyota Aurion.
Distinguishing Features:
Notable for its Australian design input, front-wheel-drive layout in a segment often dominated by rear-wheel-drive, and a focus on passenger comfort and refinement.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants used in the 380, including timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage of automatic and manual transmission servicing, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul, including fluid specifications and procedures.
Drivetrain:
Information on front-wheel-drive system components, including drive axles, CV joints, differentials, and related maintenance.
Brakes:
In-depth coverage of braking systems, including hydraulic components, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment specifications, and steering system diagnostics and repair.
Electrical Electronics:
Extensive wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for electrical systems, including lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control, audio systems, and ECUs.
Climate Control:
Service and repair of the HVAC system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motor.
Body Chassis:
Information on body panel removal and installation, structural repairs, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, and chassis lubrication.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and systematic troubleshooting guides for all vehicle systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and scheduled servicing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems of the vehicle, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides to help identify and resolve problems efficiently.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for the complete disassembly and reassembly of the vehicle and its major components, with exploded views.
Depth:
Complete factory-level technical depth, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6 Petrol
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3828 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
95.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Power Output:
Approx. 175 kW (235 hp) @ 5250 rpm (varies slightly by model/year)
Torque Output:
Approx. 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by model/year)
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 62 Liters (16.4 US gallons)
Length:
Approx. 4880 mm (192.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1775 mm (69.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1460 mm (57.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2720 mm (107.1 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1515 mm (59.6 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1505 mm (59.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 135 mm (5.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550 - 1650 kg (3417 - 3638 lbs) depending on trim and transmission
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 474 Liters (16.7 cu ft)
Ancap Rating:
4-star ANCAP safety rating (for certain configurations tested).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models.
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) standard.
TCS:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on higher trims and later models.
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Active Stability Control (ASC) available on higher trims and later models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side and curtain airbags available on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Child Anchors:
ISOFIX child seat anchorage points.
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims featured premium audio systems, often with multi-disc CD changers and subwoofer options.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors available on certain trims.
Aux Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack available on later models or via aftermarket integration.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 15,000 km (9,321 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 km, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 km or as per manual.
Cabin Filter:
Replace every 30,000 km or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace Iridium spark plugs at 100,000 km intervals.
Timing Belt:
The 6G75 engine uses a timing chain, which is designed for the life of the engine and does not require periodic replacement unless worn or noisy. (Verify chain tensioner and guides if issues arise).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 Synthetic, API SN/SM/SL or ILSAC GF-5/GF-4 compliant. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US qt) with filter.
Coolant:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and deionized water). Capacity: Approx. 8.5 Liters (9.0 US qt).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
DiaQueen ATF-SP III or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 6.4 Liters (6.8 US qt) for fill, higher for complete overhaul.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.0 Liters (2.1 US qt).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF Dexron III/Mercon. Capacity: Approx. 0.9 Liters (0.95 US qt).
Common Problems:
Interior trim creaks and rattles, some reports of early transmission issues (often related to fluid degradation), potential for power steering pump noise or leaks, alternator bearing wear over time.
Manufacturer Origin:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Japan.
Predecessor:
Mitsubishi Magna (TH, TL, TW series).
Development:
The 380 was a significant redesign of the Magna platform, with a focus on improved styling, interior refinement, and chassis dynamics, primarily developed in Australia.
Manufacturing Location:
Mitsubishi's Tonsley Park assembly plant in South Australia.
Production End Reason:
Production ceased in 2008 due to declining sales and the closure of Mitsubishi's Australian manufacturing operations.
