maintenance MITSUBISHI L200 2013 (in English) User Guide

Service precautionsE01000100706
Adequate care of your vehicle at regular intervals
serves to preserve the value and appearance as long
as possible.
Maintenance items as described in this owner’s man-
ual can be performed by the owner.
We recommend you to have the periodic inspection
and maintenance performed by a MITSUBISHI
MOTORS Authorized Service Point or another spe-
cialist.
In the event a malfunction or other problem is dis-
covered, we recommend you to have it checked
and repaired. This section contains information on
inspection maintenance procedures that you can do
yourself. Follow the instructions and cautions for
each of the various procedures.WARNINGl When checking or servicing the inside of
the engine compartment, make sure the
engine is switched off and has had a
chance to cool down.
l If it is necessary to do work in the engine
compartment with the engine running, be
especially careful that your clothing, hair,
etc., does not become caught by the fans,
drive belts, or other moving parts.
l For vehicle with air conditioning, the fan
may turn on automatically even if the en-
gine is not running; turn the ignition key
to “LOCK” position and remove the key
to ensure safety while you work in the en-
gine compartment.WARNINGl Do not smoke, cause sparks or allow open
flames around fuel or battery. The fumes
are flammable.
l Be extremely cautious when working
around the battery. It contains poisonous
and corrosive sulphuric acid.
l Do not get under your vehicle with just
the body jack supporting it. Always use
automotive jack stands.
l Improper handling of components and
materials used in the vehicle can endan-
ger your personal safety. We recommend
you to consult a specialist for necessary in-
formation.Catalytic converter E01000200925
For ordinary use, there are no particular precautions.
The exhaust gas scavenging devices used with the
catalytic converter are extremely efficient for the re-
duction of noxious gases. The catalytic converter is
installed in the exhaust system.
It is important to keep the engine properly tuned to
ensure proper catalyst operation and prevent possi-
ble catalyst damage.CAUTIONl Damage to the catalytic converter can re-
sult if your vehicle is not kept in proper
operating condition. In the event of an en-
gine malfunction particularly involving
engine misfire or other apparent loss of
performance, have your vehicle serviced
promptly.
Continued operation of your vehicle with
a severe overheated condition may result
in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.WARNINGl As with any vehicle, do not park or oper-
ate this vehicle in areas where combusti-
ble materials such as dry grass or leaves
can come in contact with a hot exhaust
since a fire could occur.
l Paint should not be applied to the catalyt-
ic converter.
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The catalytic converter itself gets hot quickly, and
may be damaged if overheated. The following
points should be noted in order to prevent the igni-
tion of unburned fuel within the catalytic converter.
l Do not drive with an extremely low fuel lev-
el; running out of fuel could cause damage to
the catalytic converter.
l Do not switch OFF the ignition switch while
driving.
l Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing
the vehicle. If the battery is weak or dis-
charged, use another battery to start the en-
gine.
l Do not idle the engine for prolonged periods
during very rough idle or malfunctioning op-
erating conditions.
l Do not race the engine when turning off the
ignition switch. This will cause the catalytic
converter to be damaged due to contact with
unburnt fuel.
l Stop driving the vehicle if you think the per-
formance is noticeably low, or if the engine
has a malfunction such as with the ignition,
etc.
If it is impractical to stop driving immediate-
ly, reduce the speed and drive for only a
short time. We recommend you to have your
vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
l In unusual situations involving major engine
problems, a burnt smell may indicate severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating.
If this occurs, the vehicle should be stopped
in a safe place, the engine switched off and
the vehicle allowed to cool. Once the engine
is cool, a service, including a tune-up to man-
ufacturer’s specifications, should be obtained
immediately.Bonnet E01000302281
To open
Pull the release lever towards you to unlock the bon-
net.Raise the bonnet while pressing the safety lock.
NOTE
l Only open the bonnet when the wipers are in
the parked position. Failure to do so may
cause damage to the bonnet, wiper arms or
front windscreen.
Support the bonnet by inserting the support bar in
its slot.
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CAUTIONlNote that the support bar may disengage
the bonnet if the open bonnet is lifted by
a strong wind.
l Always insert the support bar into the
hole provided specifically for this pur-
pose. Supporting the bonnet at any other
location could result in the support bar
slipping out and lead to an accident.
To close
Unlatch the support bar and clip it in its holder.
Slowly lower the bonnet to a position about 20 cm
above the closed position, then let it drop.
NOTE
l If this does not close the bonnet, release it
from a slightly higher position.
l Do not press down the bonnet hard with a
hand as it may damage the bonnet.
CAUTIONl Be careful that hands or fingers are not
trapped when closing the bonnet.
l Before driving, make sure that the bon-
net is securely locked. An incompletely
locked bonnet can suddenly open while
driving. This can be extremely dangerous.Engine oil E01000402820
To check and refill engine oil A- Minimum levelB- Maximum level
C- Oil replacement indication mark
Type 1Type 2
The engine oil used has a significant effect on the
engine’s performance, service life and startability.
Be sure to use oil of the recommended quality and
appropriate viscosity.
All engines consume a certain amount of oil during
normal operation. Therefore, it is important to
check the oil level at regular intervals or before start-
ing a long trip. 1. Park the car on a horizontal surface.
2. Switch off the engine.
3. Wait a few minutes.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean
cloth.
5. Reinsert the dipstick as far as it goes.
6. Remove the dipstick and read the oil level,
which should always be within the range in-
dicated.
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7.If the oil level is below the specified limit, re-
move the cap located on the cylinder head
cover and add enough oil to raise the level to
within the specified range. Do not overfill to
avoid engine damage. Be sure to use the speci-
fied engine oil and do not mix various types
of oil.
8. After adding oil, close the cap securely.
9. Confirm the oil level by repeating step 4 to 6.

Use only the recommended oils with an ACEA or
API classification as specified in this manual.
NOTE l Check or refill the oil according to the follow-
ing manner. •When the oil level is checked in step 6
above, check it on a low side of the dip-
stick because it is different in appearance
of oil level in the two sides of the dipstick.
• On vehicles without diesel particulate fil-
ter (DPF), the oil level should be within
the range (A) to (B) on the dipstick.
• On vehicles with DPF, the oil level
should be within the range (A) to (C) (oil
replacement indication mark) on the dip-
stick.
If the oil level is beyond the oil replace-
ment indication mark (C), replace the oil
as soon as possible.
Then, the oil should be refilled to the max-
imum level (B).• On vehicles with DPF, the engine oil will
increase due to a little fuel getting mixed
in the engine oil when the DPF regener-
ates to burn away the PM (particulate mat-
ter). However, it does not indicate a mal-
function.
l The engine oil will deteriorate rapidly if the
vehicle is subjected to severe conditions, re-
quiring earlier oil replacement. Please refer
to the maintenance schedule.
l For handling of used engine oils, refer to
page 05.
Selection of engine oil
Vehicles without diesel particulate filter (DPF)
l Select engine oil of the proper SAE viscosity
number according to the atmospheric temper-
ature.
l Use engine oil conforming to the following
classification: • ACEA classification:“For service A1/ B1, A3/B3, A3/B4,
A5/B5”
• API classification: “For service CF-4”
NOTE l Use of additives is not recommended since
they may reduce the effectiveness of addi-
tives already included in the engine oil. It
may result in failure of the mechanical assem-
bly.
Vehicles with diesel particulate filter (DPF)
l Select engine oil of the proper SAE viscosity
number according to the atmospheric temper-
ature.
l Use engine oil conforming to the following
classification: • ACEA classification:“For service C1, C2, C3 or C4”
• JASO classification: “For service DL-1”
If those classifications are not available, con-
tact a MITSUBISHI MOTORS Authorized
Service Point.
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NOTEl Use of additives is not recommended since
they may reduce the effectiveness of addi-
tives already included in the engine oil. It
may result in failure of the mechanical assem-
bly.Engine coolant E01000501824
To check the coolant level
A translucent coolant reserve tank is located in the
engine compartment.
The coolant level in this tank should be kept be-
tween the “LOW” and “FULL” marks when meas-
ured while the engine is cold.
To add coolant
The cooling system is a closed system and normal-
ly the loss of coolant should be very slight. A no-
ticeable drop in the coolant level could indicate leak-
age. If this occurs, we recommend you to have the
system checked as soon as possible.
If the level should drop below the “LOW” level on
the reserve tank, open the lid and add coolant.
Also, if the reserve tank is completely empty, re-
move the radiator cap and add coolant until the lev-
el reaches the filler neck.
WARNINGl Do not open the radiator cap while the en-
gine is hot.
The coolant system is under pressure and
any hot coolant escaping could cause se-
vere burns.
Anti-freeze
The engine coolant contains an ethylene glycol anti-
corrosion agent. The cylinder head and water pump
housing are cast aluminium alloy, and periodic
changing of the engine coolant is necessary to pre-
vent corrosion of these parts.

Use “ MITSUBISHI MOTORS GENUINE SUPER
LONG LIFE COOLANT” or equivalent.
MITSUBISHI MOTORS GENUINE Coolant has
excellent protection against corrosion and rust for-
mation of all metals including aluminium and can
avoid blockages in the radiator, heater, cylinder
head, engine block, etc.
Because of the necessity of this anti-corrosion
agent, the coolant must not be replaced with plain
water even in summer. The required concentration
of anti-freeze differs depending on the expected am-
bient temperature.
Ambient
temperature
( minimum) °C-15-20-25-30-35-50Anti-freeze
concentra- tion %303540455060
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CAUTIONlDo not use alcohol or methanol anti-
freeze or any engine coolants mixed with
alcohol or methanol anti-freeze. The use
of an improper anti-freeze can cause cor-
rosion of the aluminium components.
l For effective anti-corrosion and anti-
freeze performance, keep the anti-freeze
concentration within the range of 30 to
60 %.
Concentrations exceeding 60 % will re-
sult in a reduction of both the anti-freeze
and cooling performance thus adversely
affecting the engine.
l Do not top up with water only.
Water by itself reduces the rust-protec-
tive and anti-freeze qualities of the cool-
ant and has a lower boiling point. It can
also cause damage to the cooling system if
it should freeze. Do not use tapwater, as it
can cause corrosion and rust formation.
During cold weather
If the temperatures in your area drop below freez-
ing, there is the danger that the coolant in the en-
gine or radiator could freeze and cause severe dam-
age to the engine and/or radiator.
Add a sufficient amount of anti-freeze to the cool-
ant to prevent it from freezing.
The concentration should be checked before the
start of cold weather and anti-freeze added to the
system if necessary.
Automatic transmission fluid* E01000601030
The proper amount of automatic transmission fluid
is essential to the life and operation of the automat-
ic transmission. Either insufficient fluid or exces-
sive fluid could cause transmission trouble. The
transmission fluid filler port cap is equipped with a
dipstick. Use the following procedure to check the
fluid level.
Procedure for checking the fluid level 1.Check the fluid level after the vehicle has
been driven enough to warm up the transmis-
sion fluid.
2. Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface and
apply the parking brake.
3. With the engine idling and the brake pedal
fully depressed, move the transmission selec-
tor lever through all the positions from “P”
(PARK) to “D” (DRIVE), stopping momen-
tarily at each position.
4. Move the selector lever to the “P” (PARK)
position.
5. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean
lint-free cloth.
6. Reinsert the dipstick as far as it goes.7. Remove dipstick and read the automatic trans-
mission fluid level.
The fluid level should always be between the
two marks on the dipstick.WARNINGl Do not spill the fluid onto a hot exhaust
manifold during topping up or inspec-
tion, or a fire may occur.
Fluid type
Use only “ MITSUBISHI MOTORS GENUINE
ATF SP III” transmission fluid to ensure optimum
transmission performance.
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Washer fluidE01000700672
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir is in the en-
gine compartment.
Check the washer fluid level at regular intervals
and add washer fluid to reservoir if necessary.
NOTE
l The washer fluid container serves the wind-
screen and headlamps (if so equipped).
During cold weather
To ensure proper operation of the washers at low
temperatures, use a fluid containing an anti-freez-
ing agent.
Brake fluid E01000900687
To check the fluid level
Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
The brake fluid level must be between the “MAX”
and “MIN” marks on the reservoir.
The brake fluid level is monitored by a float. When
the brake fluid level falls below the “MIN” mark,
the brake fluid warning lamp lights up.
The fluid level falls slightly with wear of the brake
pads, but this does not indicate any abnormality.
If the brake fluid level falls markedly in a short
length of time, it indicates leaks from the brake sys-
tem.
If this occurs, we recommend you to have the vehi-
cle checked.
Fluid type
Use brake fluid conforming to DOT3 or DOT4.
The brake fluid is hygroscopic. Too much moisture
in the brake fluid will adversely affect the brake sys-
tem, reducing the brake performance.
In addition, the brake fluid reservoir is equipped
with a special cap to prevent the entrance of air,
and this cap should not be removed.CAUTIONl Take care in handling brake fluid as it is
harmful to the eyes, may irritate your
skin and also damage painted surfaces.
l Use only the specified brake fluid.
Do not mix or add different brands of
brake fluid to prevent chemical reactions.
Do not let any petroleum-based fluid
touch, mix with, or get into the brake fluid.
This will damage the seals.
l Keep the reservoir tank cap closed to pre-
vent the brake fluid from deteriorating ex-
cept maintenance.
l Clean the filler cap before removing and
close the cap securely after maintenance.
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Clutch fluid*E01001000281
To check the fluid level
The clutch fluid in the master cylinder should be
checked when performing other underhood service.
In addition, the system should be checked for leak-
age at the same time.
Check to make certain that the clutch fluid level is
always between the “MAX” and “MIN” level mark-
ings on the fluid reservoir.A rapid fluid loss indicates a leak in the clutch sys-
tem which should be inspected by a MITSUBISHI
MOTORS Authorized Service Point or another spe-
cialist and repaired immediately.
Fluid type
Brake fluid conforming to DOT 3 or DOT 4 should
be used.
The reservoir cap must be fully tightened to avoid
contamination from foreign matter or moisture.
DO NOT ALLOW PETROLEUM-BASED FLUID
TO CONTACT, MIX WITH, OR OTHERWISE
CONTAMINATE THE BRAKE FLUID. SEAL
DAMAGE WILL RESULT.WARNINGl Take care in handling brake fluid as it is
harmful to the eyes and may also cause
damage to painted surfaces. Wipe up any
spills immediately.Power steering fluid E01001101159
To check the fluid level
Check the fluid level in the reservoir while the en-
gine is idling.
Check to make certain that the power steering fluid
level is always between the “MAX” and “MIN” lev-
el markings on the fluid reservoir and refill the flu-
id if necessary.
Fluid type
Use “MITSUBISHI MOTORS GENUINE ATF II”.
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BatteryE01001202144
The condition of the battery is very important for
quick starting of the engine and proper functioning
of the vehicle’s electrical system. Regular inspec-
tion and care are especially important in cold weath-
er.
NOTE l On vehicles equipped with 2 batteries, when
the batteries are replaced, the 2 batteries
should be replaced at the same time.
If only a battery is replaced, it will cause short-
ening the batteries life.
Checking battery electrolyte level
The electrolyte level must be between the specified
limit on the outside of the battery. Replenish with
distilled water as necessary.
The inside of the battery is divided into several com-
partments; remove the cap from each compartment
and fill to the upper mark. Do not top up beyond
the upper mark because spillage during driving
could cause damage.
Check the electrolyte level at least once every 4
weeks, depending on the operating conditions.
If the battery is not used, it will discharge by itself
with time.
Check it once every 4 weeks and charge with low
current as necessary.
During cold weather
The capacity of the battery is reduced at low tem-
peratures. This is an inevitable result of its chemi-
cal and physical properties.
This is why a very cold battery, particularly one
that is not fully charged, will only deliver a fraction
of the starter current which is normally available.
We recommend you to have the battery checked be-
fore the start of cold weather and, if necessary,
have it charged or replaced.
This does not only ensure reliable starting, but a bat-
tery which is kept fully charged also has a longer life.
Disconnection and connection
To disconnect the battery cable, stop the engine,
first disconnect the negative (-) terminal and then
the positive (+) terminal.
When connecting the battery, first connect the posi-
tive (+) terminal and then the negative (-) terminal.
NOTE l Open the terminal cover (A) before discon-
necting or connecting the positive (+) termi-
nal of the battery.Type 1Type 2
WARNINGl Keep sparks, cigarettes, and flames away
from the battery because the battery
could explode.
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WARNINGlThe battery electrolyte is extremely caus-
tic. Do not allow it to come in contact
with your eyes, skin, clothing, or the pain-
ted surfaces of the vehicle. Spilt electro-
lyte should be flushed immediately with
ample amounts of water.
Irritation to eyes or skin from contact
with electrolyte requires immediate medi-
cal attention.
l Ventilate when charging or using the bat-
tery in an enclosed space.CAUTIONl Never disconnect the battery with the ig-
nition switch in the “ON” position; doing
so could damage the vehicle’s electrical
components.
l Never short-circuit the battery; doing so
could cause it to overheat and be damaged.
l Always wear protective eye goggles when
working near the battery.
l If the battery is to be quick-charged, first
disconnect the battery cables.
l In order to prevent a short circuit, be
sure to disconnect the negative (-) termi-
nal first.
l Keep it out of reach of children.CAUTIONlDo not bring the nearby parts, the plastic
parts and so on into contact with sulphu-
ric acid (battery electrolyte) which may
crack, stain or discolour them.
If they are in contact, wipe off with soft
cloth, chamois or the like and an aqueous
solution of neutral detergent then imme-
diately rinse the affected parts with plen-
ty of water.
NOTE
l Keep the terminals clean. After the battery is
connected, apply terminal protection grease.
To clean the terminals, use lukewarm water.
l Check to see if the battery is securely instal-
led and cannot be moved during travel. Also
check each terminal for tightness.
l When the vehicle is to be left unused for a
long period of time, remove the battery and
store it in a place where the battery fluid will
not freeze. The battery should be stored only
in a fully charged condition.
Tyres E01001300239WARNINGlDriving with tyres that are worn, dam-
aged or improperly inflated can lead to a
loss of control or blow out of the tyres
which can result in a collision with seri-
ous or fatal injury.
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