1995 MITSUBISHI FTO

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Loud ticking or tapping at cold start that persists after warmup, Loss of power in variable valve lift range above 6,500 rpm, Metal shavings in oil during changes, Check engine light with cam position sensor codes

Fix: MIVEC system relies on tight clearances and aggressive cam profiles. Neglected oil changes cause cam lobe pitting and lifter collapse. Repair requires cylinder head removal, cam replacement, and full lifter set. Parts are JDM-only and expensive. 12-16 labor hours for both heads if doing it properly with resurfacing.

Estimated cost: $3,500-6,000

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Severe clunking when shifting from reverse to drive, Vibration under hard acceleration, Shifter feels loose or imprecise, Visible forward-backward engine movement when revving in park

Fix: The front transmission mount is hydraulic-filled and fails from age and heat cycles. The rubber delaminates and fluid leaks out. Aftermarket replacements exist but OEM is best for street use. Requires supporting the engine and transmission from above. 2-3 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $300-550

Typical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Milky oil on dipstick or filler cap, White smoke from exhaust at startup, Coolant loss with no visible leaks, Engine overheating despite new thermostat and radiator cap, Bubbles in coolant reservoir when revving

Fix: Often triggered by failed radiator, clogged transmission oil cooler, or lazy water pump. On the V6, you're doing both heads since you're already in there—head gaskets, resurfacing, timing belt, water pump. If cylinder head is warped beyond machining limits, you're hunting for JDM replacements. 16-20 hours all-in.

Estimated cost: $2,800-5,500

Symptoms: Transmission fluid mixed with coolant in overflow tank (pink milkshake), Transmission slipping or delayed engagement after engine warms up, Coolant level drops but no external leak visible

Fix: The transmission cooler is integrated into the radiator. Steel lines corrode at fittings or the internal cooler fails, mixing ATF and coolant. Both fluids are contaminated—requires radiator replacement, full coolant and ATF flush, sometimes transmission rebuild if damage occurred. 4-6 hours for cooler and flushes, add 12+ if trans needs teardown.

Estimated cost: $800-1,200 (cooler only); $2,500-4,000 (if trans damaged)

Typical onset: 100,000-160,000 mi

Symptoms: Violent vibration at idle or around 2,500 rpm, Squealing belt even after tensioner replacement, Wobbling pulley visible with engine running, Check engine codes for crankshaft position sensor

Fix: Rubber ring between hub and outer pulley deteriorates from heat and age. Outer ring can shift or separate entirely, killing belts and potentially damaging crank sensor. V6 requires removing motor mount and jacking engine to get room. Special puller needed. 3-4 hours.

Estimated cost: $450-750

Typical onset: 50,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Hesitation or stumbling under hard acceleration, Rough idle when hot, Car starts then dies after a few seconds, Fuel pump whines louder than normal

Fix: Located along the frame rail or near the tank depending on market. Many owners never change it. JDM fuel quality was better, so imported cars running on US pump gas see faster clogging. Replace every 40k-50k miles. 1 hour labor.

Estimated cost: $120-220