Mitsubishi Magna Problems

GO FOR one of the reputable brands when selecting a system, such as Impco, Sprintgas, Apollogas and Vic Autogas Supplies. If you go for a dual-fuel system and follow the recommended protocol of regularly running it on petrol to lubricate the valves and valve seats, you shouldn't have any trouble.

NEITHER is the sort of car I would own, but that isn't important to you because it's your choice, not mine. It really comes down to what you want from the car. The Calais is a comfortable car that will be quite reliable and the 3.8-litre ECOTEC V6 is reasonably fuel efficient. The Magna is sportier, handles well with plenty of get up and go. It is also reliable and stands up well. But at the end of the day, it's your money.

THERE are many possible causes, but the Magna is known to break engine mounts, so start by inspecting those. A broken mount lets the engine move as the engine load changes, which is more pronounced in lower gears.

IF YOU don't drive your car often, it is a good idea to start it regularly to circulate the oil and keep the battery charged. Once a week would be good, but it wouldn't matter if it was once every few weeks.

THAT figure is too high. Mitsubishi expert Des Seaton suggests you check the temperature sensor and the oxygen sensors. If the sensors are malfunctioning it could mean the computer is supplying too much fuel.

FROM what you say your car is running well and giving good fuel consumption, so I see no reason to have the fuel-injection system cleaned. You could think about it if the engine begins to run roughly, loses performance, or your fuel consumption rises.

HAVE you hit a kerb when parking? I'd be looking for a drive shaft or joint that has been damaged. You can determine if it's the tyres by switching wheels from one side to the other. If it's the tyre on the left, the problem should move to the right.

MITSUBISHI has produced Magnas with dedicated LPG, and there has also been a factory-approved dealer-installed Impco dual-fuel option from TJ. Dual-fuel has been approved for the 380 and will be available in a few months.

I WOULD rule out the Commodore immediately because its six-cylinder engine will be too thirsty for your budget. But any cars fitting your price range will almost certainly be unreliable and expensive in the long run. Even though you're stepping up in price range, $5000 will buy an old car that is only marginally better than the cheapies you've been driving. You'll be better if you can spend $10,000 on a car that's still got some life left in it. I'd recommend a five-year-old Nissan Pulsar, Ford Laser, Mitsubishi Lancer or Toyota Corolla. They will still accommodate four and will be much cheaper to run than the Magna, Camry or Commodore.

THOUGH your car is in good condition with low kilometres, it is almost 10 years old, the main determining factor for value. In today's climate, when it's hard to move used cars, I would reckon about $5000.