Navigating the world of car diagnostics can be daunting, especially when faced with terms like OBDII, EOBDII, and specific engine codes like the 4G63. If you’re a Mitsubishi owner, particularly one with the robust 4G63 engine, understanding your vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system is crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting. This guide clarifies the complexities surrounding OBD2 for your Mitsubishi, ensuring you can effectively diagnose issues and keep your ride running smoothly.
Understanding OBDII and Mitsubishi: What You Need to Know
The original forum discussion highlights a common confusion: deciphering the right OBDII tools for a Mitsubishi Galant. The user, “thelostprophet,” was looking for an OBDII reader but encountered conflicting information about standards and compatibility. This perfectly encapsulates the initial hurdle many Mitsubishi owners face.
OBDII Standards and Mitsubishi Protocols
OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II) is a standardized system mandated in many countries for vehicle diagnostics. However, the standard primarily dictates the connector type and basic communication protocols, not necessarily the specific diagnostic language used by each manufacturer.
Mitsubishi, like other Japanese automakers, often utilizes JOBD (Japanese OBD), which is broadly compliant with OBDII but may have manufacturer-specific extensions in its diagnostic protocols. Furthermore, Mitsubishi vehicles often communicate using their proprietary protocols like MUT-II and MUT-III (Mitsubishi Unified Test).
Therefore, a generic OBDII reader might offer limited functionality on a Mitsubishi. While it might read basic OBDII codes, it may not access deeper, manufacturer-specific data or error codes crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Is Your Mitsubishi 4G63 OBD2 Compliant?
For owners of Mitsubishi vehicles equipped with the 4G63 engine, particularly those from the mid-1990s onwards, OBDII compliance is generally standard. The 4G63 engine, a staple in models like the Lancer Evolution and some Galant variants, was produced during the OBDII era.
However, the crucial question isn’t just if it’s OBDII compatible, but how to best access and interpret the diagnostic information. As forum user “swinks” correctly pointed out, “OBD stands for pin-out and socket shape, but not for protocol.” Ensuring your diagnostic tool speaks the “Mitsubishi protocol” is key.
Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for Your 4G63 Mitsubishi
Given the nuances of Mitsubishi’s diagnostic systems, opting for a generic, low-cost OBDII scanner might lead to frustration. While some basic OBDII functions might work, you could miss out on vital diagnostic data. Here are more effective approaches discussed in the forum:
1. EvoScan: A Mitsubishi Focused Solution
Several forum members, including “Nutter_John” and “foxdie,” recommend EvoScan. This software is specifically designed for Mitsubishi vehicles and excels at communicating using MUT-II and MUT-III protocols. EvoScan is capable of reading a wide range of Mitsubishi specific codes and parameters, going beyond generic OBDII readers.
EvoScan’s compatibility list, as mentioned by “thelostprophet,” can be initially confusing. While it lists numerous Mitsubishi engines, it’s important to note the general statement: “ALL Mitsubishi Vehicles with a 16pin OBDII connector, all Mitsubishis from 1994 onwards have one of these.” This suggests broad compatibility for OBDII equipped Mitsubishis, including those with the 4G63 engine.
2. VAG-COM Cable and MUT-II Selection
Interestingly, “Nutter_John” suggests using a VAG-COM cable, commonly used for Volkswagen Audi Group vehicles, in conjunction with EvoScan. This might seem counterintuitive, but the VAG-COM cable, particularly cheaper versions, can function as a suitable physical interface for communicating with Mitsubishi ECUs when paired with software like EvoScan and the correct protocol selection (MUT-II in this case).
The forum discussion mentions the need to potentially short pins 1 and 4 when using a VAG-COM cable with a Mitsubishi. This bridging might be necessary to activate the correct communication protocol. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and verify this pin configuration for your specific Mitsubishi model to avoid any electrical issues.
3. Paperclip Method: The DIY Diagnostic Trick
Before sophisticated scanners, Mitsubishi owners utilized a simple trick: shorting pins 1 and 4 of the OBD connector with a paperclip or wire, as suggested by “elnevio.” This method triggers the ECU to flash error codes via the dashboard lights. While rudimentary, it can provide basic fault code information without any specialized tools.
However, interpreting these flashing codes can be less user-friendly compared to using a scanner that displays the actual error codes in text format.
Finding Your Mitsubishi Galant OBD2 Port
For those new to car diagnostics, locating the OBD2 port is the first step. As “elnevio” pinpointed, in a Mitsubishi Galant, the OBD2 port is typically found underside of the dashboard, near the driver’s left knee. This location is fairly standard in many vehicles, but consulting your owner’s manual can provide definitive confirmation.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Mitsubishi 4G63 Diagnostics
Diagnosing your Mitsubishi 4G63 engine’s health doesn’t need to be a mystery. While generic OBDII readers might fall short, understanding the nuances of Mitsubishi’s diagnostic protocols and utilizing tools like EvoScan, potentially with a VAG-COM cable, can provide comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. Whether you’re a gadget enthusiast like “thelostprophet” or simply want to be prepared for potential car troubles, investing in the right OBD2 diagnostic approach will empower you to understand and maintain your Mitsubishi effectively. And for quick checks, even the old-school paperclip trick can offer a starting point for fault diagnosis.
