I owned a '93 VR4 ('91 stealth before that), and yep I remember these things being problems back before I sold it in the early 2000's. Even back then you couldn't get anyone to work on it, certainly couldn't find wheels for it, and couldn't get parts for it. I couldn't imagine trying to keep this car on the road in 2022 so cheers to you dude! Absolutely the favorite 2 cars of my life though. Enjoy it!
I had a fully built out '1991 VR4 with a built out engine from Pamepena Motorsports. But for the most part it was BPU,. It was meant to have eventually upgraded turbos/fuel and handle 800hp. It was so much fun senior year of high school and all through college...on the rare occasion that it wasn't broken. I paid 6k for the car with 140k on it, rebuilt engine. Keep this in mind, even in 1991, it cost 40k. That's 90k in 2023.
its always fun taking a deep breath before telling someone what i drive. and every one of those i find aggravating myself, just replaced my turbos and ended up spending an extra 4k in parts just so i wouldn't have to pull the engine out again
I am surprised you didn't mention reading fault-codes haha. I own a 1992 myself and when I went to read a fault-code I almost pulled my hair out. Firstly I bought an adapter to use a obd reader but for some reason that didn't work. After that I tried reading it with a diod, but the information on what ports to use was limited to say the least, I ended up just finding the problem on my own hahaha. Great video btw❤️
I recently ran into this. I followed a guide on 3SI to connect a multimeter to the OBD1 port. You watch for DC current pulses long or short and those will correspond with the code. I got 4 long flashes followed by 2 short which should indicate code 42. However, according to 3SI, that code doesn't exist. Through a Google search I found that it could be a code related to a fuel pump issue, which could explain the symptoms the car is showing. I'm putting in a Chrome ECU (which might solve my problem if it's being caused by leaky ECU capacitors) and this will actually allow me to convert to OBD2 and also tune.
Get flashable ECU with OBDII connector. If you're running stock, its a ticking time bomb before the caps fail anyway. Of course having it rebuilt is cheaper, but you don't get the nice things that come with it.
I designed a plate out of 3/4 steel that spaced the front rotors out 2”. Found the nismo 370z rotors were the perfect fit. Basically 2g spacing on a 1g. If anybody wants the design I can send you all the pictures of how I made it.
Nice video to see what current owners don't like. I owned it in the 90 to 2006. What I hate was the foggy windows, broken AC vents on the dash, small rotors that warp, can't keep up with MRS in twistys, and gas hungry. I got 12mpg because it was modified. Did 1/4 mile in 11.87.
It is funny you mentioned about finding someone who can work on the car. I first bought mine in 2002. The Mitsubishi dealer near me did not even know what it was. They were questioning if I'm sure it is a Mitsubishi. I have owned mine for 21 years. You really have to be either financially wealthy, or you have to be mechanically inclined and enjoy working on it enough to learn as you go. I have spent $6,200 over the past 4 years on mine but I chose not to do that work. That is just major stuff. The biggest price tag was my fuel lines from the sender to the rail were rusted out, and my rear brake lines rusted out. That is not including regular maintenance. I have never had a problem finding wheels and tires like many seem to have. I have custom wheels and always get all season tires.
just bought a base model 1994, the reason I didn't look for a turbo is not only is it another thing that would break, but also because if anything was ever wrong with the car, it wouldn't be the turbo
I had one in silver … pop up light rule 💪🏻. Fuel consumption was a nightmare, A/C was always on the blink including control panel. The seat had body hugging option - but the actuator was uncovered spring that would gradually rip its was through the seat and leather. But there isn’t a day when I don’t miss it … what a chick magnet
OMG, I forgot all about that! If memory serves, that film emanates from the dash material. I constantly had to wipe down that grime or I'd eventually wind up having to stick my head out the window like Ace Ventura to see anything.
I've got a 1996 3000gt sl and I can't get her running two of my cylinders I think are messed up but I still can't get it to start I've tried the fuel pump, a new coil pack, and a new harmonic balancer but I can't get it to start still
I own a FWD Twin Turbo Stealth R/T. I built it myself. Put the engine( a J-Spec) in myself and the 3SX front Mount inter cooler. I had a posi unit put in the transaxle. I had to use the one O2 wire ecu from Japan to make it run. Also upgraded the fuel pump. The car runs great. I will just need to put a better clutch in it. The one I am currently running is not strong enough and slips on anything more than 2lbs. of boost. I find these cars pretty straight forward to wrench on. Just need to take your time and remove more stuff than normal to access parts. This is why it is called the average man’s exotic. Look at the prices of mechanics that work on exotics. Same with this car. So learn how to wrench on them yourself. Save yourself a lot of money. The cars a blast to drive. And folks love these old cars.
That’s awesome man! And you’re 100% right, learn to work on these cars and you’ll save a ton of money and it’s just good to know how to work on your own car haha
the VR4 was my first turbo car, so it has a special place in my heart. Altered Atmosphere in Gaitherburg MD serviced it.. The engine was a pain to work on and I eventually got rid of it cuz of the transmission had to get fixed twice. I remember beating a Supra in it.. but it was probably a NA.. Other than a few vacuum leaks and A/C always going out.. I rarely had issues.
LOL I know your frustration, I own a 1992 3000gt vr4, its white same as yours. I did the coils, plugs and wires. replaced the belts and belt tensioner. replaced my passenger side window regulator, put in new carrier bearings for the drive shaft. installed a brand new clutch, new cv axles, installed a ignition control module. and currently working on the active aero system and power antenna, as well as the all wheel steering system,
@@traayzaay7283 yes, I only bought it for 2500 because it had so many issues. but it does have the single front mount intercooler. but they took away the original fog lights and front aero downforce spoiler. plus other miner issues.
You can have a aftermarket cupholder in ashtray. also you can swap your sparkplugs in an hour if you are into it. Owning NA and VR4. Engine bay is really cluttered and all thing are just thrown randomly in there instead of having some order.
Actually a soda pop can fits perfect and can be shut as well. The center console arm rest should also somewhat lock into place to avoid falling. Just nitpicking too haha. Love the car! I own a 93 and love it as well!
I just sold my 440 hp fox body mustang and I think eventually I'm going to explore Japanese halo cars and 3000gt vr4 is one of my favorites. I appreciate the info here. I would most likely go for a bone stock one and leave it so but it's good to have a heads of what to expect
I came from a 447whp 95 cobra. T56 magnum, built 8.8, full drag suspension, Yada Yada, to a 91 3kgt vr4. Very different experience. Both awesome in their own way. You won't regret it.
Late comment to an older vid but I've owned 3. Rebuilt an engine, clutch changes, timing belts, 11 second cars, etc. They're beautiful machines and I miss mine dearly. They are complicated because of the transverse engine setup, as many cars are, but the turbos do complicate it further. Try slapping on some adapter plates (back in the day) and 16Gs on it, that was fun. Never the less, you need to be a competent wrench to work on these vehicles, be it NA or Turbo. They're amazing though and worth it.
It is difficult finding someone to work on these cars. The dealership by me will only work on it if the parts are not discontinued. They wouldnt even replace a few O rings for my ac lines, said the O rings were discontinued. Also body shops refuse to work on it (car has a dent on the front fender) because they are afraid of things like panels or bolts breaking and not being able to find replacements.
yeah it can be a real pain, lots of body shops around me will only replace parts with brand new parts, nothing used so it makes it nearly impossible to replace certain body parts
Dealership won't touch your car bc they don't have OEM parts for it anymore! They have some, but only those that were also on other cars that Mitsu made. It's not bc they don't want to work on it! Trust me, most Mitsu techs would LOVE to work on your VR-4 🙂 I own a '91 VR-4 & I do all my own work. She's not that hard to wrench on if you know what you're doing.
The drink spot is funny as hell.. i own a 93 rt.. It always made me chuckle a grand touring car with at time some of the most amazing technology ever built. But Mitsubishi figured you'd not get thirsty ever on these epic drives lol 😆
It's ok...we Mitsubishi Eclipses (3G) owners know how you feel when it comes to those 3 rear spark plugs, we have to go through the same process. I've even made a video on my car channel because there are only 2 other videos about how to take out those rear plugs.
LOL at the cupholder issue. I remember the struggle well in my old '93 base. But almost every car has something ridiculously annoying. My newer Z's equivalent issue is the hatch requiring two pushes of the button and some help with your hand to get it to open. On the wheels issue, back in the day, 5Zigen's (particularly FN01R-C's) were all the rage - I don't recall anyone mentioning fitment issues on the 1st gen VR-4's - have you tried them? As far as repairs, I had my T-belt and 120k service done believe it or not by an independent family friend who specialized in old Volkswagens... basically nothing even resembling most modern cars. I believe I got quotes from a dealer or two also - mind you this was back in 2003. Unfortunately, from a parts availability perspective (and willingness of people to work on them), 2023 is about 20 years late to the party. I have toyed with the idea of picking up another 3000GT for winter duty, but I don't like the parts availability issue (and unlike, e.g., Mustangs and Camaro's, aftermarket was never particularly strong for this platform to begin with, even in its heyday).
Screw the cup holders!!!! But most of the other points are spot on.. I had a friggin nightmare finding wheels for my 1991 VR4, and the exhaust is an absolute nightmare as it is basically impossible for me to get one shipped as I live in the middle of nowhere and it is so effing annoying!!!! But 1 thing I managed to do which you mentioned is to replace the rear turbo without removing the plenum chamber and all that junk around there, but to put it mildy, it was a F nightmare!!!!! These cars are fun, a proper eyelooker, but the maintenance on them sux proper salty donkey ballz!!!!
You have a nice car, I miss mine and wish I never sold it, I was the first car I ever had. Some day I will buy another, was the most fun I ever had driving.
Hey man, nicely done video and cool 3000gt. I also owe a GTO face-lift in pearl white and with some big plans for it. Just like to know, where did you find that drink holder? That's the most annoying thing not to have when I try and take it out. Cheers
Thanks! And I got it with the car so I’m not sure where you’d get one, I do know they sell 3D printed cup holders that replace the ash tray/coin tray that lots of people really like
@@davidyang577 there’s one on eBay I see for the center console, it’s called “1991-99 Mitsubishi 3000GT Dodge Stealth R/T Center Console Cup Holder insert OEM”
It's really not that bad to work on if you accept that it's not as easy as a honda, I did a timing belt and water pump change on my vr4 when I was 15, yea it's annoying but after u get used to it it's not bad
#5 ! Hahaha Man Mitsubishi really didn’t want their drivers drinking and driving….alcohol…soda….water…none of it. They didn’t put cup holders in the montero either until the later generations. One of the few aftermarket parts for my montero happens to be 3d printed cup holders to fit into the center shifter blank.
Maybe most mechanics won't work on them is because they have the turbo. I've read that many VR4 owners say they have more mechanical problems than the non-turbo version.
I am not a car mechanic, but I work on heavy stuff. Had to change the cambelt myself, was reading the manufacturer manual, and can be lost in translation easily. I would not trust another mechanic to work on it besides myself. Parts are hard to come by, and when they do, they are super expensive. I have to sort out the miss fire problem and then OH NO! Poor idling and stalling. Try fixing that, making sure that you have enough funds in the bank to buy the part.
I have had many Mitsubishi Galants. They do NOT have big brakes at the front. Just one mountain pas (Yes I know how to drive in the mountains ;-) Or one hard braking on the highway and the discs could already be warped. I ended up getting brake discs from Porsche. That worked. Embrace your big brake discs at the front mate 😄🥰
I've had my JDM GTO for over 10yrs, very much a love/hate relationship, but the love outways the hate LOL. As a mech I will say they are a bitch to work on, NOTHING is easy to do on them. ENJOY.
Agree parts number one issue. Do they fit? I have ordered so many parts for my car online only to send them back because they do not fit my car. Miss labeled often. Many vendors assume the base model has the same parts as the VR4 does. In some cases yes but most often no.
Mine always came with the cupholder, i have 2 93 vr4s a 98 base and a 99 base model. The center cupholder saved me from jail one time. I was at the lake drinking and driving and got stoped I droped the center door and abra cadbra beer was gone.
I used to have a 1993 VR4 and I did all the work myself because of reason #2. Nobody could even change the darn spark plugs... Then I found a local Honda racing mechanic that did some of the work when I got tired of doing it. He was good, but expensive as an MD!!!
@2:50 know your offsets.. that's it, not the rim barrel, the distance from the outer caliper to the rim spokes. this car runs a +40 offset,this is an easy fix using spacers. @3:49 easy, just do your own research before you go to a mechanic, get pricing 1st when you talk to the shop owner or mechanic and time framework will be completed and parts, make sure you have the parts in hand or the shop/mechanic owner has the parts in hand before you drop the car off, this isn't a kia goofball hyundai bendover. Just know it is very expensive to work on. Just completed the timing belt service and tune up and went OEM Mitsubishi parts. Just talk to your mechanic you use and most of them will work on it just have the parts on hand or have them buy it get an accounting upfront of the work, DO NOT drop it off, and expect it to be $500. Min using OEM Mitsubishi parts $1200 with out labor. If you buying a car with no service history and want a reliable daily driver/Grand Tour for long road trips - drop the engine and check and replace what needed. @6:10 FB groups/Z16a group n forums 3Si.org (Rock auto) and online searching. @7:30 yes, you forgot about the 02 Sensors - but its import to do an engine out if you get a high mile car to service everything. @9:43 try removing the climtae control and putting it back in , once all buttoned up its a really fun car to drive. Areas you didn't cover EDS - shocks - not available replaceable Active aero - glitches replacing front fog light bulbs
If I even mention the possibility of someone working on mine the mechanic's eyes sort of glaze over and they start twitching. I do most of my own work and doing the timing belt is actually not as bad as you think it would be.
Cool video. Pretty dead on those 5 things. Main reason why we don't have many vendor because most owners are to cheap. These cars aren't for everyone.. Good luck with your car because it's definitely a love & hate relationship with 3s. lol
I'm with you on all 5. You're spot on brother. I have a 97 vr4 (parting out) and 92 Stealth TT. But I put the front & rear caliper & rotors off the 97 and put them on the 92. And trying to still find rims are a nightmare! I'm almost ready to go back to stock rims. 😫 I'm lucky per say the 92 came with aftermarket wheel. But they feel like center blocks. So I'm searching for light weight or forged wheel. Very difficult to find the fit. I saw that the wheels are a 46 offset which I had to dig on forums to get that info.
😭😭😭😭 No one knows how to work on these cars. But there are a few gear heads out there that love the challenge of learning about the platform by working on it. I've also been looking for an AEM front bumper since mine is cracked. And the options are all limited, scams or just no longer available.
I agree with what you say, i have the cupholders (thought they came from factory in the center console?) but yeah thinking of making ash tray into a cupholder but it might get in way of gearing i supose. is it good idea?
Bought a set of enkei ts-5s and put them on continental extreme contact pro all seasons and Jesus it was such a pain in my ass. The front brakes just didn’t wanna see me win. Recently bought another 1g because a drunk driver totaled my first one. so now I’m definitely not making that $2100 mistake again 🤣
I agree with the engine bay mine is the non turbo and I'm surprised Mitsubishi found space to even turbo the damn car lmao, cup holder situation is a yikes mine came with the insert but still sucks ass but I heard you can buy one that hangs off the console or by the center so you can have the glovebox closed?
In other news anyone notice newer sports cars having the same kind of engine bay these days. I believe the infiniti q series, as well as other makes like Lexus even being cramped small and cluttered...just saying trends repeat..why it was a trend to begin with I have no clue
Remove the ash tray then find the centre console out of a Mitsubishi FTO and fit the dish/cup holder they have. Requires a small amount of sanding but will look like factory when done right.
LOL . I have the exact same car, i feel like i am married to mine with the undying love and frequent cycles of hate i have for some things she has and does. Two items I have are the design flaw that casues the tic and the sunrof lift/crank that is made of plastic and now broke. grrr
man its same with the 5th gen honda prelude they made even less of them than the 3000gt and it diferent enough from the first 4 gens it makes it hard to find anyone to touch them so you have to do it your self, one of mine the silver one in my video on my channel is even worse for parts as its one of the first 50 5th gens produced, car 44 to be exact and its more prototype for showrooms so doesn't even match the helms manual or most other 5th gens
I have to understand a thing, cause i am seriously in doubt, 3000 gt are still cheap, and i am considering buying one, BUT i have heard that some of them are awd and some just fwd... obviusly i could just check under the car, but fact is: Is real? Some 3000 gt were just fwd or ALL the 3000 gt are awd?
Those mitsubishi dealers that couldn't work on your 3000gt, should be reported to mitsubishi motors and stripped of their dealership. This wouldn't go in a European mitsubishi dealer. They are obligated by the mitsubishi brand always to find a competent specialist to your specific problem, even if they don't have any themselves.
When this car was new it was rated the most unreliable next to a Jaguar, tied at the bottom. I’ve always had respect for the 3000GT VR4, fast and pretty
I owned a '93 VR4 ('91 stealth before that), and yep I remember these things being problems back before I sold it in the early 2000's. Even back then you couldn't get anyone to work on it, certainly couldn't find wheels for it, and couldn't get parts for it. I couldn't imagine trying to keep this car on the road in 2022 so cheers to you dude! Absolutely the favorite 2 cars of my life though. Enjoy it!
Thank you man!
i’ve got a 3d printed cup holder that replaces the ash tray in my 94
thats pretty sweet ill have to look into that
I had a fully built out '1991 VR4 with a built out engine from Pamepena Motorsports. But for the most part it was BPU,. It was meant to have eventually upgraded turbos/fuel and handle 800hp. It was so much fun senior year of high school and all through college...on the rare occasion that it wasn't broken.
I paid 6k for the car with 140k on it, rebuilt engine. Keep this in mind, even in 1991, it cost 40k. That's 90k in 2023.
its always fun taking a deep breath before telling someone what i drive. and every one of those i find aggravating myself, just replaced my turbos and ended up spending an extra 4k in parts just so i wouldn't have to pull the engine out again
I am surprised you didn't mention reading fault-codes haha. I own a 1992 myself and when I went to read a fault-code I almost pulled my hair out. Firstly I bought an adapter to use a obd reader but for some reason that didn't work. After that I tried reading it with a diod, but the information on what ports to use was limited to say the least, I ended up just finding the problem on my own hahaha. Great video btw❤️
Ahhh I forgot that one haha yeah they don’t make anything easy with these cars 😂
... is MUT conector in 1992 ecu not support obd protocol dime resulta un 1998 GTO for example use 1gen ecu but hace obd2 conector plug
I recently ran into this. I followed a guide on 3SI to connect a multimeter to the OBD1 port. You watch for DC current pulses long or short and those will correspond with the code. I got 4 long flashes followed by 2 short which should indicate code 42. However, according to 3SI, that code doesn't exist. Through a Google search I found that it could be a code related to a fuel pump issue, which could explain the symptoms the car is showing. I'm putting in a Chrome ECU (which might solve my problem if it's being caused by leaky ECU capacitors) and this will actually allow me to convert to OBD2 and also tune.
fr
Get flashable ECU with OBDII connector. If you're running stock, its a ticking time bomb before the caps fail anyway. Of course having it rebuilt is cheaper, but you don't get the nice things that come with it.
I designed a plate out of 3/4 steel that spaced the front rotors out 2”. Found the nismo 370z rotors were the perfect fit. Basically 2g spacing on a 1g. If anybody wants the design I can send you all the pictures of how I made it.
Hi,
I would really appreciate pictures of the adapter design.
Nice video to see what current owners don't like. I owned it in the 90 to 2006. What I hate was the foggy windows, broken AC vents on the dash, small rotors that warp, can't keep up with MRS in twistys, and gas hungry. I got 12mpg because it was modified. Did 1/4 mile in 11.87.
Ugghhhh the broken dash vents…
It is funny you mentioned about finding someone who can work on the car. I first bought mine in 2002. The Mitsubishi dealer near me did not even know what it was. They were questioning if I'm sure it is a Mitsubishi.
I have owned mine for 21 years. You really have to be either financially wealthy, or you have to be mechanically inclined and enjoy working on it enough to learn as you go. I have spent $6,200 over the past 4 years on mine but I chose not to do that work. That is just major stuff. The biggest price tag was my fuel lines from the sender to the rail were rusted out, and my rear brake lines rusted out. That is not including regular maintenance. I have never had a problem finding wheels and tires like many seem to have. I have custom wheels and always get all season tires.
just bought a base model 1994, the reason I didn't look for a turbo is not only is it another thing that would break, but also because if anything was ever wrong with the car, it wouldn't be the turbo
Hahaha those are two valid points
I had one in silver … pop up light rule 💪🏻. Fuel consumption was a nightmare, A/C was always on the blink including control panel. The seat had body hugging option - but the actuator was uncovered spring that would gradually rip its was through the seat and leather. But there isn’t a day when I don’t miss it … what a chick magnet
Aye bro, I appreciate the videos. I'm looking at getting a vr4 myself, so I appreciate all the information I can get.
Thanks man! Feel free to dm me on insta too if you have any questions, happy to help. @RostenDrives on IG
And I got 10 reasons why I hate some Americans
The inside of the windshield is a pain to keep clean. A foggy film slowly builds up. Someone said it's caused by the air conditioning.
I have noticed that as well
OMG, I forgot all about that! If memory serves, that film emanates from the dash material. I constantly had to wipe down that grime or I'd eventually wind up having to stick my head out the window like Ace Ventura to see anything.
I've got a 1996 3000gt sl and I can't get her running two of my cylinders I think are messed up but I still can't get it to start I've tried the fuel pump, a new coil pack, and a new harmonic balancer but I can't get it to start still
sorry to hear that, hope you get it figured out
To Stevie think compression
PS also hope it doesn't have the circuit one of the SUV's had that would not let the car start if the RADIO FUSE WAS BLOWN 🤔😂😂😂
I own a FWD Twin Turbo Stealth R/T. I built it myself. Put the engine( a J-Spec) in myself and the 3SX front Mount inter cooler. I had a posi unit put in the transaxle. I had to use the one O2 wire ecu from Japan to make it run. Also upgraded the fuel pump. The car runs great. I will just need to put a better clutch in it. The one I am currently running is not strong enough and slips on anything more than 2lbs. of boost. I find these cars pretty straight forward to wrench on. Just need to take your time and remove more stuff than normal to access parts. This is why it is called the average man’s exotic. Look at the prices of mechanics that work on exotics. Same with this car. So learn how to wrench on them yourself. Save yourself a lot of money. The cars a blast to drive. And folks love these old cars.
That’s awesome man! And you’re 100% right, learn to work on these cars and you’ll save a ton of money and it’s just good to know how to work on your own car haha
the VR4 was my first turbo car, so it has a special place in my heart. Altered Atmosphere in Gaitherburg MD serviced it.. The engine was a pain to work on and I eventually got rid of it cuz of the transmission had to get fixed twice. I remember beating a Supra in it.. but it was probably a NA.. Other than a few vacuum leaks and A/C always going out.. I rarely had issues.
LOL I know your frustration, I own a 1992 3000gt vr4, its white same as yours. I did the coils, plugs and wires. replaced the belts and belt tensioner. replaced my passenger side window regulator, put in new carrier bearings for the drive shaft. installed a brand new clutch, new cv axles, installed a ignition control module. and currently working on the active aero system and power antenna, as well as the all wheel steering system,
Jesus so the whole car pretty much 😅🤣
@@traayzaay7283 yes, I only bought it for 2500 because it had so many issues. but it does have the single front mount intercooler. but they took away the original fog lights and front aero downforce spoiler. plus other miner issues.
You can have a aftermarket cupholder in ashtray. also you can swap your sparkplugs in an hour if you are into it. Owning NA and VR4. Engine bay is really cluttered and all thing are just thrown randomly in there instead of having some order.
Actually a soda pop can fits perfect and can be shut as well. The center console arm rest should also somewhat lock into place to avoid falling. Just nitpicking too haha. Love the car! I own a 93 and love it as well!
You're right with that haha
I just sold my 440 hp fox body mustang and I think eventually I'm going to explore Japanese halo cars and 3000gt vr4 is one of my favorites. I appreciate the info here. I would most likely go for a bone stock one and leave it so but it's good to have a heads of what to expect
Even stock these cars are a blast to drive and still turn heads
I came from a 447whp 95 cobra. T56 magnum, built 8.8, full drag suspension, Yada Yada, to a 91 3kgt vr4. Very different experience. Both awesome in their own way. You won't regret it.
1. The VR-4 requires premium fuel. Gas prices are high these days
2. The Active Aero System tends to stop working
4.09/gal in central PA 2024
Late comment to an older vid but I've owned 3. Rebuilt an engine, clutch changes, timing belts, 11 second cars, etc. They're beautiful machines and I miss mine dearly. They are complicated because of the transverse engine setup, as many cars are, but the turbos do complicate it further. Try slapping on some adapter plates (back in the day) and 16Gs on it, that was fun. Never the less, you need to be a competent wrench to work on these vehicles, be it NA or Turbo. They're amazing though and worth it.
I've got my '91 Galant, and I can say the same about it being difficult to find spare parts, especially here in Denmark where I live.
I’m rebuilding my old ‘92 vr4 it’s also white but I gotta find someone to rebuild the motor and install it along with the transmission. Nice vid
It is difficult finding someone to work on these cars. The dealership by me will only work on it if the parts are not discontinued. They wouldnt even replace a few O rings for my ac lines, said the O rings were discontinued. Also body shops refuse to work on it (car has a dent on the front fender) because they are afraid of things like panels or bolts breaking and not being able to find replacements.
yeah it can be a real pain, lots of body shops around me will only replace parts with brand new parts, nothing used so it makes it nearly impossible to replace certain body parts
Dealership won't touch your car bc they don't have OEM parts for it anymore! They have some, but only those that were also on other cars that Mitsu made.
It's not bc they don't want to work on it! Trust me, most Mitsu techs would LOVE to work on your VR-4 🙂 I own a '91 VR-4 & I do all my own work. She's not that hard to wrench on if you know what you're doing.
The drink spot is funny as hell.. i own a 93 rt..
It always made me chuckle a grand touring car with at time some of the most amazing technology ever built.
But Mitsubishi figured you'd not get thirsty ever on these epic drives lol 😆
Yeah haha like it would have been so easy to even just put 1 cup holder..but no
I need a cup holder for the cold ones!
It's ok...we Mitsubishi Eclipses (3G) owners know how you feel when it comes to those 3 rear spark plugs, we have to go through the same process. I've even made a video on my car channel because there are only 2 other videos about how to take out those rear plugs.
LOL at the cupholder issue. I remember the struggle well in my old '93 base. But almost every car has something ridiculously annoying. My newer Z's equivalent issue is the hatch requiring two pushes of the button and some help with your hand to get it to open.
On the wheels issue, back in the day, 5Zigen's (particularly FN01R-C's) were all the rage - I don't recall anyone mentioning fitment issues on the 1st gen VR-4's - have you tried them?
As far as repairs, I had my T-belt and 120k service done believe it or not by an independent family friend who specialized in old Volkswagens... basically nothing even resembling most modern cars. I believe I got quotes from a dealer or two also - mind you this was back in 2003. Unfortunately, from a parts availability perspective (and willingness of people to work on them), 2023 is about 20 years late to the party. I have toyed with the idea of picking up another 3000GT for winter duty, but I don't like the parts availability issue (and unlike, e.g., Mustangs and Camaro's, aftermarket was never particularly strong for this platform to begin with, even in its heyday).
Cool car ,nice wheels.
Thanks for the heads up on the wheels!
Sweet ride man!
Thanks!
Screw the cup holders!!!! But most of the other points are spot on.. I had a friggin nightmare finding wheels for my 1991 VR4, and the exhaust is an absolute nightmare as it is basically impossible for me to get one shipped as I live in the middle of nowhere and it is so effing annoying!!!!
But 1 thing I managed to do which you mentioned is to replace the rear turbo without removing the plenum chamber and all that junk around there, but to put it mildy, it was a F nightmare!!!!! These cars are fun, a proper eyelooker, but the maintenance on them sux proper salty donkey ballz!!!!
5 things I love about my 3000gt
Stunning looks,4 seats,Active Spoilers,AWD, Highly Tuneable.x
You have a nice car, I miss mine and wish I never sold it, I was the first car I ever had. Some day I will buy another, was the most fun I ever had driving.
Bro I had the same problem 😂 but we have the same wheels man awesome!
They’re such great looking wheels!
Hey man, nicely done video and cool 3000gt. I also owe a GTO face-lift in pearl white and with some big plans for it.
Just like to know, where did you find that drink holder? That's the most annoying thing not to have when I try and take it out. Cheers
Thanks! And I got it with the car so I’m not sure where you’d get one, I do know they sell 3D printed cup holders that replace the ash tray/coin tray that lots of people really like
@Rosten Drives mine coin tray is not there either. But yes, I'll keep looking or see if I can get one made and get rid of the lid.
@@davidyang577 there’s one on eBay I see for the center console, it’s called “1991-99 Mitsubishi 3000GT Dodge Stealth R/T Center Console Cup Holder insert OEM”
Avid1 AV-20 18s with a +35 offset clear the first Gen calipers with no spacers or modifications.
I'm lucky to have a guy that 3d printed me a cup holder to take place of the ash tray next to the seat bolster switch.
Yeah I’ve seen those, pretty sweet I need to get one!
@@RostenDrives why the hell are you up at 4am lmao
It's really not that bad to work on if you accept that it's not as easy as a honda, I did a timing belt and water pump change on my vr4 when I was 15, yea it's annoying but after u get used to it it's not bad
Same here I replaced the timing on the vr4 and SL.
I’m about to buy one, is it worth buying?
@@Itorahk depends, if you are very mechanically knowlagable then yes, I guess.
#5 ! Hahaha
Man Mitsubishi really didn’t want their drivers drinking and driving….alcohol…soda….water…none of it. They didn’t put cup holders in the montero either until the later generations. One of the few aftermarket parts for my montero happens to be 3d printed cup holders to fit into the center shifter blank.
with #1 there’s plenty of forums of wheels that people are running #2 there’s a company called IMR they specialize in 3000GT specifically
Maybe most mechanics won't work on them is because they have the turbo. I've read that many VR4 owners say they have more mechanical problems than the non-turbo version.
Update, I bought a 3000GT last week (non-turbo)...no problem finding mechanics to replace the timing belt/water pump for the regular maintenance.
@@paulmills1308give a new update
I am not a car mechanic, but I work on heavy stuff. Had to change the cambelt myself, was reading the manufacturer manual, and can be lost in translation easily. I would not trust another mechanic to work on it besides myself. Parts are hard to come by, and when they do, they are super expensive.
I have to sort out the miss fire problem and then OH NO! Poor idling and stalling. Try fixing that, making sure that you have enough funds in the bank to buy the part.
I have had many Mitsubishi Galants. They do NOT have big brakes at the front. Just one mountain pas (Yes I know how to drive in the mountains ;-) Or one hard braking on the highway and the discs could already be warped. I ended up getting brake discs from Porsche. That worked. Embrace your big brake discs at the front mate 😄🥰
I'll gladly do turbos on a 6G72 vs a BMW N54. Anything on this car is 100% easier to work on mechanically than a lot of other cars.
I've had my JDM GTO for over 10yrs, very much a love/hate relationship, but the love outways the hate LOL. As a mech I will say they are a bitch to work on, NOTHING is easy to do on them. ENJOY.
Me too with my car it's so limited when it comes to wheels
yeah makes it a real main haha
I like your engine bay!!! Almost original!
I'm a WA VR4 owner as well heh. Didn't know about the front brakes though. I have the OEM wheels for mine
Yeah something to watch out for if you end up getting different wheels
Agree parts number one issue. Do they fit? I have ordered so many parts for my car online only to send them back because they do not fit my car. Miss labeled often. Many vendors assume the base model has the same parts as the VR4 does. In some cases yes but most often no.
Mine always came with the cupholder, i have 2 93 vr4s a 98 base and a 99 base model. The center cupholder saved me from jail one time. I was at the lake drinking and driving and got stoped I droped the center door and abra cadbra beer was gone.
Where did you go to get work done to your car
I used to have a 1993 VR4 and I did all the work myself because of reason #2. Nobody could even change the darn spark plugs... Then I found a local Honda racing mechanic that did some of the work when I got tired of doing it. He was good, but expensive as an MD!!!
@2:50 know your offsets.. that's it, not the rim barrel, the distance from the outer caliper to the rim spokes. this car runs a +40 offset,this is an easy fix using spacers.
@3:49 easy, just do your own research before you go to a mechanic, get pricing 1st when you talk to the shop owner or mechanic and time framework will be completed and parts, make sure you have the parts in hand or the shop/mechanic owner has the parts in hand before you drop the car off, this isn't a kia goofball hyundai bendover. Just know it is very expensive to work on. Just completed the timing belt service and tune up and went OEM Mitsubishi parts. Just talk to your mechanic you use and most of them will work on it just have the parts on hand or have them buy it get an accounting upfront of the work, DO NOT drop it off, and expect it to be $500. Min using OEM Mitsubishi parts $1200 with out labor. If you buying a car with no service history and want a reliable daily driver/Grand Tour for long road trips - drop the engine and check and replace what needed.
@6:10 FB groups/Z16a group n forums 3Si.org (Rock auto) and online searching.
@7:30 yes, you forgot about the 02 Sensors - but its import to do an engine out if you get a high mile car to service everything.
@9:43 try removing the climtae control and putting it back in , once all buttoned up its a really fun car to drive.
Areas you didn't cover
EDS - shocks - not available replaceable
Active aero - glitches
replacing front fog light bulbs
If I even mention the possibility of someone working on mine the mechanic's eyes sort of glaze over and they start twitching. I do most of my own work and doing the timing belt is actually not as bad as you think it would be.
I kinda expected a cluttered engine bay considering these things are monsters.
Cool video. Pretty dead on those 5 things. Main reason why we don't have many vendor because most owners are to cheap. These cars aren't for everyone.. Good luck with your car because it's definitely a love & hate relationship with 3s. lol
not mentioning what wheels you got when you had to search 5 monts for them to fit is some of the most passive evil shit i have whitnessed lol
hahaha they are the Konig Hypergrams, they have amazing brake clearance
@@RostenDrives i seem to have the added problem of getting a 94 european model so o have no idea if it can fit 18" without problems.
In New Zealand the car is called a Mitsubishi GTO
You said Washington and that made me laugh, I just got a 95 3kgt SL and it was from Washington so guess I'm lucked out on mechanics for my car
So what offset are the wheels? That would be helpful to know.
Nice clean engine bay
I'm with you on all 5. You're spot on brother. I have a 97 vr4 (parting out) and 92 Stealth TT. But I put the front & rear caliper & rotors off the 97 and put them on the 92. And trying to still find rims are a nightmare! I'm almost ready to go back to stock rims. 😫 I'm lucky per say the 92 came with aftermarket wheel. But they feel like center blocks. So I'm searching for light weight or forged wheel. Very difficult to find the fit. I saw that the wheels are a 46 offset which I had to dig on forums to get that info.
second point...idk about gto but i have a evo4, the dealer here is very happy to deal with my evo. planning to get a 3000gt tho
Does all this apply to the stealth too
I know someone who owns a 3000gt. It is a V6 as well, but it's not turbocharged. Does that make the job a lot easier or just a bit?
Good video. absolutely agree with you... interested but owners all of the world take this problem.. good luck
Where in Washington did you find the mechanic?
They were located over in the Seattle Area
😭😭😭😭
No one knows how to work on these cars. But there are a few gear heads out there that love the challenge of learning about the platform by working on it.
I've also been looking for an AEM front bumper since mine is cracked. And the options are all limited, scams or just no longer available.
yeah there's some pretty cool body kits for these cars but they're nearly impossible to find
I love my GTO
What’s the wheel specs on those! Might wanna get a set for my 1st gen eventually
They're Konig Hypergrams 18x9.5 +25 they have a little poke so I had to run a little camber but nothing to crazy!
Evo x wheels 🛞 work and fit great with out spacers
@@michaelsnyder5509 yeah i currently run evo x bbs on my car
@@RostenDriveswith or without spacers?
@@michaelsnyder5509is that stock or aftermarket?
I pull out my ash tray / cup and use it as a cup holder until I get home 😭
I agree with what you say, i have the cupholders (thought they came from factory in the center console?) but yeah thinking of making ash tray into a cupholder but it might get in way of gearing i supose. is it good idea?
I’ve heard quite a bit of people do that, I think it’d be pretty nice
Front:
17x9.75
Offset:
25
Backspacing:
6.4
Rear:
17x9.75
Offset:
25
Backspacing:
6.4
That’s without spacers?
Bought a set of enkei ts-5s and put them on continental extreme contact pro all seasons and Jesus it was such a pain in my ass. The front brakes just didn’t wanna see me win. Recently bought another 1g because a drunk driver totaled my first one. so now I’m definitely not making that $2100 mistake again 🤣
What are your plans now to avoid those mistakes?
My dream car
How about 3000GT NA version?similar problem to Turbocharge version?im about to buy a used nice Mitsubishi GTO NA..
I couldn't really tell you, I haven't worked on an NA before
I agree with the engine bay mine is the non turbo and I'm surprised Mitsubishi found space to even turbo the damn car lmao, cup holder situation is a yikes mine came with the insert but still sucks ass but I heard you can buy one that hangs off the console or by the center so you can have the glovebox closed?
HOW ABOUT CHANGING THE TIMING BELT AND H20 PUMP?
In other news anyone notice newer sports cars having the same kind of engine bay these days. I believe the infiniti q series, as well as other makes like Lexus even being cramped small and cluttered...just saying trends repeat..why it was a trend to begin with I have no clue
Hi,
I have the same problem with wheels.
Would you tell me the brand and sizes of your wheels?
Cost $ ?
Thank you
I currently have 18x9.5 +25 Konig Hypergrams and they were about $1100
@@RostenDrives
Thank you,
They look very good on your car. I will try to find the same for mine.
@@RostenDrives
Also, the $1100 was it only for the wheels or with tires?
Thank you
Martin MG $1100 for the wheels only
@@RostenDrives
That's what I suspected.
I love your wheels set up,
Thank you for your reply.
#5 Remove the ash tray; it's a janky solution and it gets in the way of shifting, but it's the perfect size for most cups.
Remove the ash tray then find the centre console out of a Mitsubishi FTO and fit the dish/cup holder they have. Requires a small amount of sanding but will look like factory when done right.
Lord I hope the SL I just got is easier to work on than a VR-4. Unfortunately the engine is flooded with gas so I might have to get in there.
LOL . I have the exact same car, i feel like i am married to mine with the undying love and frequent cycles of hate i have for some things she has and does. Two items I have are the design flaw that casues the tic and the sunrof lift/crank that is made of plastic and now broke. grrr
I haven't had that issue but probably because i never open my sun roof lol but yeah the love/hate is real lol
man its same with the 5th gen honda prelude they made even less of them than the 3000gt and it diferent enough from the first 4 gens it makes it hard to find anyone to touch them so you have to do it your self, one of mine the silver one in my video on my channel is even worse for parts as its one of the first 50 5th gens produced, car 44 to be exact and its more prototype for showrooms so doesn't even match the helms manual or most other 5th gens
I have to understand a thing, cause i am seriously in doubt, 3000 gt are still cheap, and i am considering buying one, BUT i have heard that some of them are awd and some just fwd... obviusly i could just check under the car, but fact is: Is real? Some 3000 gt were just fwd or ALL the 3000 gt are awd?
all VR4 models are AWD, SL models i think are only FWD
Do you still have this beast?
yes sir
so these are all valid probs pretty much. cool car btw. :)
thank you!
What type of wheels are those bro?
Konig Hypergrams!
Bought my car with 5Zigen wheels and it clears the caliper by like 2mm. 😬😬
You lucky man 😂
Dead ass so hard to find Iaai only has like 3 cars world wide rn
Getting an SL next week
Wheels specs?
Check out Huracan Ian on TH-cam he full rebuilt his one fully on his channel
I watch his videos all the time, great channel and videos!
which guys in Wa work on these?
NW3S Racing
01:10 - Rosten: I hate Coors, Banquet and those two graphic designs on my hat. Otherwise, there is nothing wrong with the car
Those mitsubishi dealers that couldn't work on your 3000gt, should be reported to mitsubishi motors and stripped of their dealership. This wouldn't go in a European mitsubishi dealer.
They are obligated by the mitsubishi brand always to find a competent specialist to your specific problem, even if they don't have any themselves.
I had to use spacers for my front breaks
yeah definitely makes it easier to find wheels
There’s a guy on insta that has lots of oem parts dose not matter what it is
name?
@@265308 3000gtparts
When this car was new it was rated the most unreliable next to a Jaguar, tied at the bottom.
I’ve always had respect for the 3000GT VR4, fast and pretty
That's funny bc it's actually more reliable than the GTR so idk what you're talking about. Lmao