Mitsubishi Carisma Common Problems and Solutions
Can’t Get Into Reverse
Problem:
All of the other gears work fine, but you can’t get into reverse.
Solution:
This is simple gear linkage wear, and it’s an easy fix. A top tip is to not order the expensive Mitsubishi links, which are known to be very overpriced. The K11 Nissan Micra gear linkages are the perfect fit, much more cost-effective, and more durable too. You can order Mitsubishi or Micra gear linkages directly from BreakerYard.
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Squealing When Driving
Problem:
You can hear a loud squealing noise from the back of the car when you’re driving. The squeal doesn’t just happen when the brakes are applied.
Solution:
The back brake callipers on the Carisma are exceedingly prone to sticking, and that’s going to affect overall driving performance. Try cleaning the callipers as this can sometimes fix the problem, although at the very least, you may have to replace the shims. If the problem is more serious, then you’ll need to replace both of the rear brake callipers. Don’t forget to check your brake pads and discs in case they have become worn or damaged as a result of the sticking callipers.
Difficulty level
AC Failure
Problem:
Your aircon has stopped working.
Solution:
The AC unit on the Carisma is incredibly durable and is not known for premature wear. If yours has stopped working then, it's likely that it just needs regassing. You can order regassing kits, but these tend to be around the same price that a mechanic will charge you to do the job.
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Fuel Smell
Problem:
There is a strong smell of fuel both inside and outside the car.
Solution:
This caused a recall by Mitsubishi and is being caused by the retaining cap ring of the in-tank fuel pump. It’s prone to shatter, and although this isn’t a serious issue, it can become frustrating. Order a new cap ring from our store and have the replacement delivered. It's a tricky installation job, so you’ll need to be patient.
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Suspension creaking noise
Problem:
When you drive over speed bumps or rough surfaces and hear a creaking noise coming from the suspension, this is an indication of worn anti-roll bar bushes.
Solution:
If you fit replacement anti-roll bar bushes, this will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
The cam position sensor is known to fail on this car. The first sign of this problem is the engine management warning light appearing on the dashboard. You will then most likely notice that the car is becoming more difficult to start. If so, then your cam position sensor is faulty.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement cam position sensor will rectify the situation.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
The cam position sensor is known to fail on this car. The first sign of this problem is the engine management warning light appearing on the dashboard. You will then most likely notice that the car is becoming more difficult to start. If so, then your cam position sensor is faulty.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement cam position sensor will rectify the situation.
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Electric window failure
Problem:
The electric window switches can fail on this car. If it fails, the windows cannot be opened or closed.
Solution:
The only way to fix this is to replace the electric window switch.
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Gear changing problems
Problem:
On the 1.6L version of the Carisma there are known gear changing issues. The gears that seem to be most difficult to change are reverse and first gear. The cause of this problem is the gear link bushes.
Solution:
You will need to fit replacement gear link bushes to fix this problem.
Difficulty level
Lack of power/misfiring
Problem:
The throttle body on the GDi engine of the Carisma is known for getting blocked up with carbon. If this has happened you may be noticing a few different symptoms. Misfiring is a common symptom, where the engine is idling very erratically instead of remaining at consistent revs. There might also be a lack of power and poor acceleration. Why not watch the video below and see if the problem is similar to what you are facing.
Solution:
You can remove the throttle body and clean it out with some carb cleaner. This should resolve the issue. Watch the video below for an idea on how this is done:
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