I own a 2006 Mitsubishi Colt 3.0-litre V6 DC that’s done 185 000 km without ever missing a service. However, after a recent service I noticed that the vehicle’s fuel filter hadn’t been changed. Lately, my Colt has had this strange cut-out / surge. In my opinion, it feels like a fuel starvation problem because the rev counter stays where it is – yet everything else is dead. What’s more, the vehicle sometimes experiences a hesitant feeling.
I’ve since replaced the under-chassis fuel filter, and although the filter was very dirty, the problem still persists. Does this vehicle have any other fuel filters I’m not aware of? Or could it be that my fuel tank is contaminated? I’ve not been out of the country lately, and for what it’s worth, I’ve been filing up at reputable petrol stations. Any ideas?
Answer: It sounds like your Colt has a fuel pump problem. If your fuel filter hasn’t been changed in a while, excess dirt can cause the pump to wear. This can then lead to a subsequent drop in fuel pressure.
With regards to your rev counter remaining still despite everything else not functioning: I would have the ignitor unit seen to or replaced, because the rev counter receives pulsations from the ignitor.
If it’s an electronic malfunction, then the “Check Engine” lamp will stay on and a diagnostic scan can be conducted. I once had a crank pick-up sensor fail, and when it did, similar symptoms were experienced.
ANSWER SUPPLIED BY: Arnold Venter
Tel: 076 402 0046
