CARFIX

Mitsubishi Diamante i (2000–2003)

The Mitsubishi Diamante/Magna i offered a practical and relatively affordable option for Kiwi families looking for a mid-size vehicle. Often considered an alternative to Japanese imports, these cars provided a comfortable ride and decent features. This guide offers insights into maintaining your Diamante/Magna i and keeping it running smoothly.

Parts for the Mitsubishi Diamante i

Known issues

Common issues to watch out for in your Mitsubishi Diamante/Magna i include automatic transmission problems (particularly in early models), premature wear of front suspension components, and rust around the rear wheel arches and in the spare tire well. Many owners report these issues arising around 150,000-200,000 km.

WOF tips

When taking your Mitsubishi Diamante/Magna i for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) check, pay special attention to the suspension ball joints and bushes, as well as any signs of oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets. These are common WoF failure points.

About the Mitsubishi Diamante i

Maintenance & Reliability

Owning a Mitsubishi Diamante/Magna i requires attention to some known issues. Regular maintenance can help prevent problems and extend the life of your vehicle. Here's what to keep an eye on:
• Automatic Transmission: Early models are known for transmission issues. Consider regular servicing and fluid changes.
• Front Suspension: Examine the front suspension components for wear, especially around the mileage milestone mentioned below.
• Rust: Regularly inspect areas prone to rust, such as the rear wheel arches and the spare tire well. Early detection and treatment can save you from extensive repairs.

Addressing these points proactive will safeguard your vehicle's health.

Replacement Parts Considerations

When maintaining your Diamante/Magna i, you might need to address the following:
• Wiper Blades: Ensuring clear visibility is crucial for safe driving. Regularly inspect and replace worn wiper blades (front and rear).
• Strut Brace: A front strut brace can enhance handling and stability.
• Seals: Oil leaks can lead to major engine problems. Be prepared to replace seals such as the camshaft and crankshaft oil seals (front/timing front), and transfer case front output seal at necessary intervals.
• Power Steering Pump: Listen for unusual noises or difficulty steering, which may indicate a failing power steering pump.
• Coolant: Maintaining proper coolant levels is vital for regulating engine temperature and consider flushing and replacing your radiator coolant at specified intervals.
• Distributor Cap: Inspect the distributor cap for cracks or damage, replacing it as needed for optimal ignition performance.
• Suspension Bushes: Inspect the suspension bushes for wear or damage. Replacing worn rear control arm bushes can improve ride quality and handling.
• Windscreen Washer Pump: A functioning windscreen washer pump ensures clear vision during inclement weather. Check if this is squirting well, and replace if not.
• Steering Rack Clamp: Look at condition of these. Replacing these can add to the responsiveness of the steering rack.
• Automatic Transmission Filter Kit: Regular replacement ensures longevity and proper operation of your transmission.
• Crankshaft Thrust Washer: If you're experiencing excessive crankshaft endplay, this may need checked.
• Throttle Position Sensor: A faulty throttle position sensor / switch can affect engine performance and fuel economy.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues to look out for with a MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003?
Owners of the MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 frequently report automatic transmission problems, especially in earlier models. Premature wear of front suspension components and rust around the rear wheel arches and spare tire well are also common. Many of these issues tend to surface around 150,000-200,000 km.
What should I check on my MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 before a WoF inspection in New Zealand?
For your MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 WoF, pay close attention to the suspension ball joints and bushes, as these are common failure points. Also, inspect for any signs of oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, as these can also lead to a WoF failure.
My MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 is making strange noises when I steer. What could be the problem?
Unusual noises or difficulty steering in your MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 could indicate a failing power steering pump. It's recommended to have this checked by a mechanic.
Where can I get replacement wiper blades or an automatic transmission filter kit for my MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 613 SKUs for the MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003, including wiper blades (front and rear) and automatic transmission filter kits. You can find these parts and more on the CARFIX New Zealand website.
How often should I service the automatic transmission in my MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003?
Given the known issues with automatic transmissions in early models of the MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003, regular servicing and fluid changes are highly recommended to help prevent problems and extend its life.
What are some common oil leak sources in the MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003?
Common sources of oil leaks in the MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE;MAGNA 2000–2003 that may require seal replacement include the camshaft and crankshaft oil seals (front/timing front), and the transfer case front output seal.