Mitsubishi Tredia

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The Mitsubishi Tredia: A Comprehensive Guide

The Mitsubishi Tredia was a compact sedan produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1982 to 1989. It occupied a space in the market competing with vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra/Pulsar, and Honda Civic sedan. Known for its angular styling, fuel efficiency, and surprisingly spacious interior for its class, the Tredia offered a compelling alternative to established rivals. While not as ubiquitous as some of its competitors, the Tredia has gained a cult following due to its relative rarity and unique features.

Generations

First Generation (A210 series, 1982-1989)

• 1982: Launch of the Tredia. Available with 1.4L (4G12), 1.6L (4G32) and 1.8L (4G62) gasoline engines. Initial trims included GL, GLX, and GSR. Notable for its boxy, early 80s styling.
• 1983: Introduction of the turbocharged 1.8L (4G63T) engine, boosting performance significantly and making the Tredia one of the faster compact sedans of its time.
• 1984-1985: Minor cosmetic updates including grille and trim changes. Some markets received enhanced interior features.
• 1986-1989: Refreshed front-end styling with a more streamlined grille and headlights. Engine improvements for better fuel economy in some markets. The range began to be phased out as Mitsubishi focused on newer models.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Mitsubishi Tredia, while generally reliable for its era, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Given the age of these cars, component degradation is almost a certainty, so proactive inspection and maintenance are crucial.

Engine Issues:

• 4G32/4G62/4G63 Series: These engines, while robust, are prone to oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gasket and rear main seal. Regular oil changes are crucial. Overheating can occur if cooling systems are neglected.
• 4G63T (Turbocharged Models): Turbocharger failure is a common issue on older, unmodified cars. Check for excessive smoke, oil leaks, and boost issues. Turbochargers also require regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil to prevent premature wear.
• Carburetor Issues: Many Tredias used carburetors, which can become problematic over time. Look for rough idling, stalling, and poor fuel economy. Rebuilding or replacing the carburetor may be necessary. Fuel injection was available on some later models, offering improved reliability.
• Timing Belt: Crucially important to maintain. Interference engines mean a broken timing belt will cause significant engine damage. Check for service history. If unknown, replace immediately.

Transmission Issues:

• Automatic Transmissions: Prone to slippage and harsh shifting, particularly in neglected examples. Ensure smooth shifting through all gears. Fluid changes are essential.
• Manual Transmissions: Generally more reliable than the automatics, but check for clutch slippage and grinding gears. Worn synchros can cause difficult shifting.

Electrical Issues:

• Corrosion: Wiring corrosion is a common problem in older cars, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Pay close attention to grounds and connectors.
• Fuse Box: Check for corrosion and proper fuse ratings.
• Charging System: Alternators can fail with age. Check battery voltage and charging output.

Chassis & Suspension:

• Rust: Rust is a major concern, particularly in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage, floor pans, rocker panels, and wheel wells.
• Suspension Components: Worn shocks, struts, bushings, and ball joints are common. Look for excessive bouncing, noise, and uneven tire wear.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the Mitsubishi Tredia varies depending on the engine and trim level. However, some common characteristics can be noted:

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: The non-turbocharged models offer respectable fuel economy, making them suitable for daily driving.
• Spacious Interior: The Tredia offers a surprisingly spacious interior for its compact size, with comfortable seating for four adults.
• Turbocharged Performance: The 1.8L turbocharged models offer a significant performance boost, providing brisk acceleration and a fun driving experience.
• Unique Styling: The Tredia's boxy, angular styling is distinctive and sets it apart from other compact sedans of its era.

Cons:

• Ride Quality: The ride can be firm, especially on models with stiffer suspension setups.
• Noise: Engine and road noise can be noticeable, particularly at higher speeds.
• Parts Availability: Parts availability can be a challenge, especially for less common components. Sourcing parts may require online searches or specialized auto parts suppliers.
• Handling: While adequate, handling isn't particularly sporty or refined compared to modern cars.

Buying Advice

If you're considering purchasing a Mitsubishi Tredia, keep the following points in mind:

Years to Look For:

• 1986-1989 Models: These models typically have the benefit of minor updates and refinements compared to earlier models. Fuel injection models (if available) offer increased reliability.
• Turbocharged Models: If performance is a priority, a well-maintained turbocharged model can be a rewarding choice. However, factor in higher maintenance costs and the potential for turbocharger repairs.

What to Avoid:

• Rust Buckets: Avoid any Tredia with significant rust damage, as repairs can be costly and time-consuming.
• Neglected Examples: Cars with a history of poor maintenance are likely to have numerous issues that will require attention.
• Modified Engines (Unless Professionally Done): Heavily modified engines may have reliability issues and may not be suitable for daily driving. Verify the modifications were performed correctly.

Pre-Purchase Inspection:

A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential. Pay close attention to the following:

• Engine Compression Test: To assess the overall health of the engine.
• Cooling System Inspection: Check for leaks, corrosion, and proper coolant levels.
• Brake System Inspection: Check for worn pads, rotors, and leaks.
• Suspension Inspection: Check for worn shocks, struts, bushings, and ball joints.
• Rust Inspection: Carefully inspect the undercarriage, floor pans, rocker panels, and wheel wells for rust.
• Electrical System Check: Verify that all electrical components are functioning properly.

Price Considerations:

The price of a Mitsubishi Tredia can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, and location. Be prepared to pay a premium for well-maintained examples. Factor in the cost of potential repairs and maintenance when negotiating a price.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Tredia can be a rewarding classic car to own, especially for enthusiasts who appreciate its unique styling and relative rarity. However, it's essential to do your research, inspect potential purchases carefully, and be prepared for the challenges of owning an older vehicle.

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