Mitsubishi Magna 2005 Problems

The battery probably needs replacing. It sounds like it’s down on power and the cold mornings have found it out.

It’s likely that it has overheated for some reason, which would explain why it was hard to restart and the coolant loss. The thermo fan won’t run if the ignition is not switched on, so check that before assuming it’s a problem with the fan. If the fan isn’t working as you say it could be a problem with the fan motor or a relay that’s failed and preventing power getting to the fan.

The Magna generally doesn't have a problem with the water pump, and Mitsubishi specialist Graham Lewis tells us he has customers who have had three belt changes without changing the water pump. He does, however, advise checking for any coolant staining, and if found, then change the pump. Otherwise, the pump generally doesn't give any trouble.

That increase in fuel usage on E10 is in line with what we've been told would happen by the biofuels people.

After David McKenzie told us that his TJ Mitsubishi Magna used up   to 40 per cent more fuel when running on E10 than it did on regular   unleaded we felt we should refer it to the experts, as his experience   contradicted the advice we had received about the fuel. David's   experience confounded the experts who said it went against everything   they knew about the fuel. They told us that Mitsubishi had no   problems with the TJ Magna using E10. Further we were told that   providing the oxygen sensors were working correctly the engine   management system on the Magna would adjust for any changes in the   fuel. It was suggested that David have the fuel-injection system in   his car checked by a competent mechanic.

There's very little engine braking available with an automatic transmission, and with the desire to achieve the best possible fuel economy there have been changes to the transmissions, gearing, torque converters etc. that have further reduced the effect.