Mitsubishi repairs can empty your wallet quickly, especially in UAE’s harsh climate. Our experience as mechanics shows that many Mitsubishi owners don’t deal very well with repairs until it’s too late.
These problems can range from small annoyances to huge expenses. Transmission failures in CVT models and constant engine oil leaks are common issues. Your Mitsubishi might show early warning signs like water leaking from the air conditioning or a check engine light that suddenly turns on. Many owners also face electrical problems – faulty sensors and broken infotainment systems that need expensive diagnostics and fixes.
We’ve put together a complete guide about the 15 most expensive problems you might face as a Mitsubishi owner in 2025. Our data comes from real repairs and customer experiences throughout the UAE. This knowledge could save you thousands of dirhams and prevent future headaches.
Transmission Failure in CVT Models
Mitsubishi owners across the UAE face their biggest repair nightmare: CVT transmission failures. Unlike regular transmissions, CVTs work with a pulley and belt system that gives unlimited gear ratios instead of fixed gears. This smart design promises better acceleration and fuel economy, which explains why Mitsubishi put them in many popular models.
The real-world experience of UAE Mitsubishi owners hasn’t matched these promises. Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s intense heat and stop-and-go traffic put extra stress on these complex systems. This often results in early breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Transmission Failure in CVT Models – Key Symptoms
You can save thousands of dirhams in repair costs by spotting early warning signs of CVT failure. Most owners notice their car’s performance gets worse before the transmission completely fails.
Mitsubishi owners most often report a delay between pressing the accelerator and the vehicle moving forward. This delay isn’t just annoying—it puts you at risk, especially when you need quick acceleration to get through busy UAE intersections or merge onto highways. The problem usually gets worse over time and can lead to complete transmission failure if you don’t fix it.
Unusual noises often point to CVT problems. Owners typically hear:
- Grinding sounds while accelerating
- Whining noises at consistent speeds
- Rattling sounds, especially during cold starts
- Clunking noises when shifting between drive and reverse
Your vehicle’s feel while driving can also tell you a lot. CVT failure shows up as jerky acceleration. Instead of smooth, steady power that CVTs should deliver, you might feel sudden jolts or vibrations when starting from a stop. These jerking movements usually mean the transmission’s belt system can’t keep proper tension.
RPM behavior can also signal problems. A good CVT keeps engine RPMs steady during acceleration. Bad CVTs make the engine rev too high—your car might sound like it’s working too hard even at normal speeds. This high revving not only shows transmission problems but wastes fuel too.
UAE Mitsubishi owners also talk about slipping sensations while driving. The car might lose power for a moment before catching again, much like worn clutches in manual transmissions. This happens when the CVT belt starts wearing out and can’t grip the pulleys properly.
The scariest problem is when CVTs cause complete loss of acceleration. Several owners have reported their cars simply wouldn’t move forward when they pressed the gas pedal. This total failure usually happens after other warning signs have shown up for a while, showing why it’s important to fix problems early.
Overheating is another big worry with Mitsubishi’s CVT transmissions, especially in the UAE’s hot climate. The transmission control module might light up warning indicators on your dashboard if the unit gets too hot. UAE owners need to watch their transmission temperature closely because of the region’s extreme heat.
The check engine light often comes on when CVT problems start. While this light can mean many things, it’s likely pointing to transmission problems when you notice the other symptoms we’ve talked about. New Mitsubishi vehicles store specific error codes that mechanics can check to find out exactly what’s wrong with the transmission.
Comparison Table
Aspect Details Common Symptoms – Response lag between accelerator and vehicle movement
– Grinding and whining sounds
– Rough acceleration patterns
– RPM readings above normal range
– Transmission slips during operation
– Power loss during acceleration
– System temperature spikes
– Dashboard warning light activation Affected Models – 2014-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer
– 2014-Present Mitsubishi Outlander
– 2014-Present Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
– 2014-Present Mitsubishi Mirage
– 2018-Present Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Repair Costs – New transmission: AED 14,690
– Used transmission: AED 7,340-8,000
– Labor costs: AED 1,470-1,830 Primary Causes – CVT control unit calibration errors
– Belt grip loss
– Hydraulic pressure circuit contamination
– Cooling system deficiency
– Bearing system breakdown Recommended Maintenance – Change fluid at 45,000 kilometer intervals
– Replace both filters regularly
– Only use J1 or J4 transmission fluid
– Practice smooth acceleration and driving
– Schedule regular diagnostic assessments
FAQs
Q1. What are the most common signs of CVT transmission problems in Mitsubishi vehicles?
Common symptoms include delayed acceleration, unusual noises like grinding or whining, jerky acceleration, high RPMs, transmission slipping, and in severe cases, complete loss of power. The check engine light may also illuminate.
Q2. How much does it typically cost to repair or replace a CVT transmission in a Mitsubishi in the UAE?
Replacing a CVT transmission in a Mitsubishi can be quite expensive. A new transmission can cost around AED 14,690, while a used one might range from AED 7,340 to 8,000. Labor costs typically add another AED 1,470 to 1,830 to the final bill.
Q3. Which Mitsubishi models are most affected by CVT transmission issues?
The models most commonly affected by CVT problems include the 2014-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, 2014-Present Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander Sport, 2014-Present Mitsubishi Mirage, and 2018-Present Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
Q4. How often should I change the transmission fluid in my Mitsubishi with a CVT?
While Mitsubishi recommends changing the fluid every 90,000 kilometers, independent experts suggest more frequent changes, around every 45,000 kilometers. This is especially important in hot climates like the UAE.
Q5. Can CVT transmission problems be prevented through proper maintenance?
Regular maintenance can help prevent CVT issues. This includes timely fluid changes using the specified J1 or J4 transmission fluid, replacing both transmission filters during servicing, adopting gentle driving habits, and getting regular diagnostic checks. However, due to design issues, some problems may still occur despite proper maintenance.
