Segment:
Compact pickup truck (often referred to as a Sport Utility Truck or Crossover Utility Vehicle in some markets due to its body-on-frame construction and utility focus).
Competitors 1996:
Toyota Hilux, Nissan D21/Navara, Isuzu Rodeo/TF, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT-50 (pre-BT-50 era)
Model Highlights:
Rugged construction, reliable diesel engine options, capable 4WD system, versatile cargo bed, robust chassis.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical, automatic transmission, manual transmission
Chassis:
Drivetrain (4WD system, transfer case, differentials, driveshafts), suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS if equipped)
Electrical:
Body electrical, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, HVAC system, starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, exterior trim, bumpers, tailgate/bed construction
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, belt replacement
Repair Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, driveshaft repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (for applicable models), component testing procedures
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, fluid types and capacities, clearances, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Displacement Cc:
2972
Horsepower Petrol:
Approx. 150-170 PS (depending on market and tune)
Torque Petrol Nm:
Approx. 240-260 Nm
Engine Type:
SOHC Inline-4, Turbocharged (common)
Engine Displacement Cc:
2477
Horsepower Diesel Ps:
Approx. 90-115 PS (depending on turbo boost and tune)
Torque Diesel Nm:
Approx. 200-240 Nm
Fuel Delivery Petrol:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
Indirect Injection (IDI) with Turbocharger (common) or Direct Injection (DI) on later variants.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not widely rated by modern independent bodies like NHTSA/Euro NCAP for this era; design prioritizes robustness over advanced passive safety.
ABS:
Optional on higher trims or certain engine variants.
Traction Control:
Not typically available for this model year.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or not available depending on market.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point or 3-point rear seatbelts (depending on cabin and seating position).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Often aftermarket upgrades are common.
Navigation:
Not available from factory.
Cruise Control:
Available on some higher trim levels, often linked to automatic transmission.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
Power Windows:
Available on higher trims; manual crank windows common on base models.
Air Conditioning:
Optional or standard depending on trim level and market.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 10,000 km or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used).
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change. Part Number example: MD097400 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as needed based on inspection. Part Number example: MR127101 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:
Every 20,000 - 40,000 km. Crucial for diesel longevity. Part Number example: MD069061 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Engine Oil Viscosity Petrol:
10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher.
Engine Oil Viscosity Diesel:
10W-30 or 15W-40 API CF/CG-4 or higher (for turbocharged engines).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.5 L (depending on engine, with filter change)
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Coolant Capacity Liters:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.5 L (depending on engine and radiator)
Fluid Specifications Transmission Auto
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi ATF-SP II M or Dexron III equivalent.
Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Fluid Specifications Differential
Front Rear Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Limited-slip differential fluid if equipped.
Common Problems Diesel:
Injector pump failures, turbocharger wear, glow plug issues, timing belt (if applicable, check manual for specific engine) degradation, exhaust manifold cracks on high-mileage turbo models.
Common Problems Petrol:
Head gasket leaks, ignition coil failures, starter motor wear, exhaust system rust.
Common Problems Chassis:
Suspension bush wear, shock absorber fatigue, driveshaft universal joint wear, rust on the chassis and body panels (especially in corrosive environments).
Common Problems Electrical:
Alternator failure, aging wiring harnesses, corrosion in electrical connectors, faulty door lock actuators.
Mitsubishi Truck Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing rugged and reliable trucks dating back to models like the Colt T120 and subsequent Pajero/Montero Sport lineage which shares platform elements with the L200.
L200 Generations:
The 1996 model belongs to the third generation of the L200 (often referred to as the 'K-series' or 'UA/UB/UC/UD' platform), which was a significant redesign from its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with significant production also occurring in Thailand and other global assembly plants.
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 L200 are not prominently documented, Mitsubishi trucks of this era were generally recognized for their durability and value in the utility vehicle market.
Reliability Reputation:
Strong reputation for mechanical robustness, especially the diesel variants, making them popular for commercial use and off-road applications.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliant with prevailing emissions standards for the respective market in 1996. Manual provides details on emission control systems.
