The Mitsubishi Sigma Turbo holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealand car enthusiasts. A relatively rare sight today, this turbocharged variant of the Sigma offers a distinctive blend of performance and practicality. This guide provides insights into ownership, maintenance considerations, and potential issues you might encounter.
Common issues include turbocharger failure (often due to oil starvation), fuel injection system problems, and premature wear of the rear suspension bushes. Many owners report experiencing these issues between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers. Inspecting the turbocharger for oil leaks or unusual noises is recommended.
When taking your Sigma Turbo for a WOF, be mindful of potential watch points. Excessive turbocharger smoke and rust around the rear wheel arches and sills are common reasons for failure. Address any rust promptly to prevent further deterioration.
The Sigma Turbo, while not boasting significant motorsport heritage or groundbreaking engineering firsts, is a car celebrated for its turbocharged engine and relative rarity, particularly in New Zealand. It's a vehicle often admired by those seeking an interesting and attainable classic performance car.
Maintenance & Care:
Keeping your Sigma Turbo in top condition requires regular attention. Scheduled maintenance is key to preventing issues and ensuring longevity. Consider the following areas for regular checks and maintenance:
• Engine Oil: Regular oil changes are crucial especially for a turbocharged engine. Aim for service intervals around every 10,000 km.
• Turbocharger: Pay close attention to the turbocharger. Listen for unusual noises and monitor for excessive smoke, which could indicate wear or oil leaks.
• Cooling System: The cooling system is vital for turbo longevity. Check the radiator hoses and coolant level regularly. Consider replacing hoses preventatively.
• Fuel System: Given their age, fuel injection systems can sometimes develop issues. Keep an eye out for rough idling or hesitation.
• Suspension: The suspension bushes, particularly the rear control arm bushes, are known to wear. Inspect these regularly and replace as needed to maintain handling.
Parts Considerations:
When maintaining your Sigma Turbo, you might need to address these components:
• Ignition Coil: A healthy ignition system is critical for optimal performance.
• Radiator Hoses & Heater/Coolant Hoses: Inspect regularly for leaks or deterioration.
• Steering Idler Arm: Check for play, as wear here can affect steering accuracy.
• Distributor Pick Up: As a critical part of the ignition system, monitoring its condition is important.
• Clutch Cable: Ensure smooth clutch operation with a properly adjusted cable.
• Suspension Bushes: Radius arm front and front control arm lower bushes will need inspection and eventual replacement.
• Bump Stop Front: Worn bump stops can cause a harsh ride.
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Rear / Rear Main Bearing: Watch for oil leaks from this area.
• Temperature Sensor / Sender Coolant: Ensure accurate temperature readings.
• Water Pump: Prevent overheating by maintaining a healthy water pump.
• Wheel Cylinder Rear: For vehicles with rear drum brakes.
• Wheel Stud: Replace any damaged wheel studs immediately.
By understanding these areas and proactively addressing potential issues, you can keep your Mitsubishi Sigma Turbo running strong and enjoying the road for years to come.