Ask Your Car Question. Car Experts Answer You ASAP.

(Not a Car Question?)

1994 Mitsubishi Diamante
Sent to Car Experts August 15 12:16 AM

I am thinking of buying a 1994 Mitsubishi Diamante with 158,000 miles and am wondering what kind of typical repair costs we should expect? In other words, how does this car compare to others? I like the car, but want your thoughts on the car.

 

Optional Information:
1994 Mitsubishi Diamante V6 3.0

Already Tried:
I haven't purchased yet.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 15 12:36 AM (19 minutes and 15 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

Hello!

If you are concerned about repair costs, this would be a vehicle to avoid. They are attractive cars that are fun to drive, but this model has far higher than normal repair costs and some systems (such as the air suspension system if this vehicle has that particular options) are very expensive to repair, trouble prone, and only serviceable by the Mitsubishi dealer since most independent repair shops do not find it justifiable to invest in the scan tool software required to diagnose and repair them.

As a general rule of thumb, most vehicles are designed to last around 10 years. This particular vehicle has exceeded it's designed life expectancy; although it may be in good overall condition, it would be normal at this age and mileage for it to begin to need frequent repairs and maintenance. This is true for any 13 year old 150,000+ mile vehicle; Mitsubishi products seem to need a much higher frequency of repairs and maintenance when they are newer, much less when they get to this age. Things like window motors, suspension components, struts, water pumps, radiators, electronic components, etc... that have served well for 13 years are all at the end of their life on a vehicle at this age and will soon begin to fail and need replacement. Also, when a vehicle gets to be this old the manufacturer has started to discontinue some of the parts for it, so eventually parts availability for repairs becomes an issue as well.

If in doubt as to repair costs, call whatever local repair shop you plan to use for maintenance and repairs on the vehicle and ask them to perform a pre-purchase inspection for you. Inquire as to whether they have the capability of diagnosing and repairing such things as the air suspension system, the engine control system, head gaskets, oil leaks, and any other parts of the vehicle should the need arise. Ask them to prepare for you an estimate for any needed maintenance and repairs that they discover are needed prior to purchase (such as the timing belt; if the timing belt breaks on this vehicle it destroys the engine. when was it last changed?). At least that way if you do decide to purchase the vehicle, you will know in advance what kind of short term repair and maintenance expenses you will be facing. THis inspection will cost an hour or two of labor charges, but will likely prove to be a wise investment once it is completed.

A 13 year old import luxury car such as this can be fun to drive, but if your primary concerns are reliability and repair costs, this is definitely not the vehicle for you.

I hope this is helpful; if so, please click my accept button and leave positive feedback! Thanks!

Think you can answer this question?
Login or Become an Expert

 

DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the Just Answer service comes from those individuals, not from Just Answer!, and that Just Answer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on Just Answer! are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. Just Answer! is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.

Just Answer! > Car Repair