Carefully check the radiator and coolant hoses along the entire length. Replace hoses with cracks, tears or signs of ageing. Cracks are easier to find if the hose is pinched. Pay special attention to the clamps that attach the hoses to the elements of the cooling system. Hose clamps that have been overtightened can cause the hose to break or puncture, resulting in leaks in the cooling system. Inspect all hoses and hose connection surfaces for leaks. If any problems of this nature are found with leaks, then replace this component or gasket.
Fuel leaks are difficult to pinpoint until the leak is significant and therefore easily visible. Fuel tends to evaporate quickly as soon as it comes into contact with air, especially in a hot engine bay. Small drops may disappear before you can locate the leak. If you suspect there is a fuel leak in the area of the engine compartment, cool the engine and start it while it is cold with the hood open. Metal objects tend to shrink when cold and rubber hoses tend to loosen, so any leaks will be more obvious as the engine warms up on a cold start.
If there are signs that some fluid is leaking, but you cannot recognize the type of fluid or its exact origin, you should leave the car for a long time and put a large piece of paper or rag under the car. This will help you find the location of the fluid leak, as well as identify the leaking fluid by color. But keep in mind that some leaks may only show up when the engine is running.
If you find a fuel leak and smell fuel, do not drive (don't start the engine), contact an authorized MITSUBISHI dealer for assistance.
Carefully check all rubber hoses and metal fuel lines coming from the fuel tank. Check for loose connections, worn hoses, twisted fuel lines, and other damage. Pay special attention to vent pipes and hoses, which often kink around the filler hose and can become blocked, making the tank difficult to fill. Follow the fuel supply and return hoses to the front of the vehicle, carefully inspecting them completely for signs of damage or corrosion.
Steering wheel free play check
With the engine idling, turn the steering wheel left and right (pic. 1.12). The free play, measured around the circumference of the steering wheel, must not exceed 30 mm.
Pic. 1.12. Steering wheel free play check
If the steering wheel free play exceeds the limit, have your MITSUBISHI dealer adjust the steering.
Clutch pedal free play check
Press the clutch pedal with your hand until you feel a noticeable resistance to its movement. Use a ruler to measure the free play of the clutch pedal, which should be between 6-13 mm (pic. 1.13).
Pic. 1.13. Clutch pedal free play check
If the clutch pedal free play is outside the prescribed limits, have the clutch pedal adjusted by an authorized MITSUBISHI dealer.
Checking the free play of the brake pedal
Stop the engine and depress the brake pedal a few times. Then press the brake pedal with your hand until you feel a noticeable resistance to its movement. Use a ruler to measure the free play of the brake pedal, which should be between 3-8 mm (pic. 1.14.).
Pic. 1.14. Checking the free play of the brake pedal
If the brake pedal free play is outside the prescribed limits, adjust it.