1995 Mitsubishi Magna Executive 2.6
Summary:
Very underrated
Faults:
CV joints replaced at about 150000 klms.
Water pump replaced at 200000.
Timing chains replaced at about same time.
Oh, and a new clutch at about 200000 as well.
Exhaust system was replaced recently.
Paint starting to fade (well it is eleven years old).
General Comments:
Bought the car new in 95 and still have it. Have had dire warnings over the years about Mitsubishi reliability, but my car has been a daily driver for 11 years, has been properly serviced, and still drives perfectly.
It has had much use on gravel roads (I live in the bush) and it has handled it beautifully.
Every switch still works and nothing has fallen off the interior. Although I admit it is getting a little tired now (well it has done nearly 300 thousand).
Over the years, it has been used to tow a trailer, has taken several major interstate trips, and been used for usual family duties.
THANKS MITSUBISHI, I've got my moneys worth. Will be considering a new 380 when this one wears out, if it wears out.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th July, 2006
6th Apr 2011, 06:55
I've got a manual Executive station wagon which was given to me by a friend.
It hasn't given me any trouble so far, it doesn't seem to have the typical problems that other 2.6 Magnas I've seen (rattly timing chains, leaking water pumps etc), even though it's done 320,000 kms.
I've done some things to it to reduce the likelihood of it overheating, I fitted a pair of Davies Craig aftermarket thermo fans because the brushes in the original ones burn out too quickly (no overheating now when the A/C is on in mine) and replaced all the hoses and the thermostat.
My advice to people that are looking at buying a 2.6 TS model Magna is to check and double check, if it sounds rattly when you first start it, the timing chain is not far off replacement (common problem in high mileage 2.6 Magnas and if they break they do a lot of damage!). After you've taken it for a drive, check around the water pump for leaks (another common problem with this model) and check both thermo fans are working propely.
Other than that, they are a pretty good car.