CARFIX

Mitsubishi Starion Turbo ECi (1985–1987)

The MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi, a distinctive sports coupe, holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts, particularly those who admire its '80s aesthetics and turbocharged performance. This wiki provides helpful information for owners looking to maintain and understand their Starion.

Parts for the Mitsubishi Starion Turbo ECi

Known issues

Like many vehicles of its age, the MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi does have some known weak points, especially as mileage increases. Be aware of potential fuel injector issues, which can be linked to age and the use of ethanol in modern fuels. Turbocharger failure is another potential concern, and rear wheel arch rust is also common. Expect these issues to potentially appear around 150,000-250,000km.

WOF tips

When taking your MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, keep these points in mind: Pay close attention to rust, particularly around the rear arches and sills. The condition of the turbocharger will also be assessed, including any signs of leaks. Headlight alignment can also be challenging to adjust, so ensure this is addressed prior to your inspection.

About the Mitsubishi Starion Turbo ECi

Owning a MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi often becomes a labor of love. Here's some guidance:

Maintenance Matters: Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule can help prevent common issues and extend the life of your Starion. Consider tasks like regular oil changes and inspections of key components.

Common fitment components include: WHEEL STUD, ADVANCED CLUTCH SYSTEM, CLUTCH DRIVE PLATE ENGINE, TIMING KIT, CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER KIT, OIL SEAL TRANSMISSION/GEARBOX FRONT INPUT, OIL SEAL KIT TIMING, RADIATOR HOSE, THERMOSTAT HOUSING GASKET, REVERSE LAMP SWITCH, RADIATOR CAP, ENGINE OIL, BALANCE SHAFT TENSIONER, SWITCH STOP LIGHT, and CYLINDER HEAD. Being aware of these parts can help you better understand your vehicle’s maintenance requirements.

For New Zealand Owners: Early Starions are relatively uncommon in New Zealand, often individually imported. These vehicles are typically cherished by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique design and overall performance.

If you enjoy hands-on maintenance, the Starion offers a moderate level of DIY-friendliness. Addressing minor repairs and maintenance tasks yourself can be rewarding.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues I should look out for with my 1985-1987 MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi?
As your MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi ages, especially beyond 150,000-250,000km, you should be aware of potential fuel injector issues, which can be exacerbated by modern fuels containing ethanol. Turbocharger failure is another common concern, and rust, particularly around the rear wheel arches, is frequently observed.
What should I pay attention to for a WOF inspection on my MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi in New Zealand?
For your MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi's WOF, pay close attention to rust, especially around the rear arches and sills. The condition of the turbocharger will be assessed for leaks, and ensuring correct headlight alignment is crucial, as this can be challenging to adjust.
Where can I get a TIMING KIT for my 1985-1987 MITSUBISHI STARION in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 392 SKUs for the MITSUBISHI STARION 1985-1987, including common fitment components like TIMING KITs. You can find these parts and more on the CARFIX website or by visiting a CARFIX store in New Zealand.
Is the MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi a good car for DIY maintenance in New Zealand?
Yes, the MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi offers a moderate level of DIY-friendliness. Many enthusiasts in New Zealand enjoy performing minor repairs and maintenance tasks themselves, which can be very rewarding. CARFIX also offers 4 DIY video guides to assist you.
What are some key components I should regularly inspect or maintain on my MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi?
Regular maintenance on your MITSUBISHI STARION Turbo ECi should include inspecting components like the WHEEL STUD, ADVANCED CLUTCH SYSTEM, CLUTCH DRIVE PLATE ENGINE, TIMING KIT, CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER KIT, OIL SEAL TRANSMISSION/GEARBOX FRONT INPUT, OIL SEAL KIT TIMING, RADIATOR HOSE, THERMOSTAT HOUSING GASKET, REVERSE LAMP SWITCH, RADIATOR CAP, ENGINE OIL, BALANCE SHAFT TENSIONER, SWITCH STOP LIGHT, and CYLINDER HEAD. Adhering to the 10,000km service interval is also important.