CARFIX

Mitsubishi Verada i (1997–1999)

The Mitsubishi Verada i, a beloved name in the automotive scene, is celebrated for its spaciousness and comfort. As a versatile choice for New Zealand families and businesses alike, understanding its maintenance quirks and care needs is essential to ensure your Verada continues to perform at its best for years to come.

Parts for the Mitsubishi Verada i

Known issues

Owners frequently report automatic transmission issues (gear slipping), climate control failure, and premature rust in rear wheel arches, typically surfacing between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers.

WOF tips

When getting your Warrant of Fitness, pay particular attention to the rear suspension bushes deteriorating and lower ball joints wearing. These are common WOF failure points for the Verada.

About the Mitsubishi Verada i

Owning a Mitsubishi Verada i comes with a few necessary considerations to keep it at peak performance:

Maintenance Matters
Regular servicing is crucial for the longevity of your Verada i. Be vigilant about service intervals to prevent those pesky issues down the line. Components like the timing belt idler often require checking or replacement, ensuring a smooth drive.

Common Issues to Watch For
As you approach the 150,000 to 250,000 km mark, be on the lookout for automatic transmission hiccups—those annoying gear slipping noises and potential climate control failures. Don’t overlook premature rust forming in the rear wheel arches. Routine inspections can help identify these issues early, giving you peace of mind.

Under the Hood
Taking a closer look at your Verada's engine compartment is a good idea. Regularly check crucial components like the oxygen sensor, heater/coolant hoses, and windscreen washer pump. Parts like the ignition lead set, disc brake rotors, and strut mounts might need maintenance or replacement too, keeping everything in tip-top shape. And remember, if you want to keep your car cool, be proactive about the cooling system—components like your water pump, thermostat, and radiator should be inspected around the 150,000 km mark. [This naturally links to /shop/cooling]

Suspension and Steering
Your vehicle's alignment and suspension health are just as important. Consider adjustments with camber correction screws and camber/caster kits as needed. Ensuring these aspects are well-maintained can help avoid unwanted wear on essential parts.

Sealing and Bearings
Don’t forget to keep an eye on potential leaks or wear, specifically looking out for the oil seal at the rear hub which can wear out over time.

In summary, regular maintenance and awareness of common issues, along with timely component replacement, will help you get the most from your Mitsubishi Verada i for many more journeys ahead.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues to look out for with a 1997-1999 Mitsubishi Verada i as it gets older?
Owners frequently report automatic transmission issues, such as gear slipping noises, and climate control failures, typically surfacing between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers. Premature rust forming in the rear wheel arches is also a common concern.
What should I check on my Mitsubishi Verada i before a WOF inspection in New Zealand?
For your Mitsubishi Verada i, pay particular attention to the rear suspension bushes and lower ball joints. These are common WOF failure points for this model, and their deterioration can lead to inspection failure.
Where can I get an oxygen sensor for my 1997-1999 Mitsubishi Verada i in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 491 SKUs for the 1997-1999 Mitsubishi Verada i, including oxygen sensors. You can find these parts on our website or by visiting a CARFIX store.
When should I consider replacing the timing belt on my Mitsubishi Verada i?
Regular servicing is crucial for the longevity of your Verada i, and components like the timing belt idler often require checking or replacement. It's important to adhere to the 15,000km service interval to ensure timely inspection and replacement of critical components like the timing belt.
What cooling system components should I inspect on my Verada i around the 150,000 km mark?
Around the 150,000 km mark, it's proactive to inspect cooling system components such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator to prevent overheating issues and ensure your Verada i stays cool.
Are there any common suspension or steering issues with the Mitsubishi Verada i?
Yes, owners should be aware of potential issues with the rear suspension bushes deteriorating and lower ball joints wearing, which are common WOF failure points. Additionally, maintaining proper alignment with camber correction screws and camber/caster kits is important to avoid unwanted wear on essential parts.