1986 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1986
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1986: 7 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 2 |
| 1986 | 7 |
| 1987 | 4 |
| 1988 | 9 |
| 1989 | 2 |
| 1990 | 7 |
| 1991 | 10 |
| 1992 | 9 |
| 1994 | 4 |
| 1995 | 3 |
Known problem areas
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 7 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe.
Show complaint excerpts
Developing expansion crack in collector of exhaust manifold of the 1986 2.0L Mitsubishi might max pu. This is due to improper casting of materials during production and when repaired, it is replaced with another defective unit of the same nature.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-02-03
Also filed under Equipment
86 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX pu:exhaust manifold:cracks developed in casting. Co into engine/passenger compartment causes fire/co poisoning to driver/passenger. Complaint: question are they only required to repair once with same defective parts?
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-08-08
The exhaust system; there is black smoke fumes coming out of the exhaust purchase truck used. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-01-09
Seat belts
2 of 7 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing buckle assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
(404-941-3893H) drivers side front seatbelt harness will not stay fasten into latch mechanism. Please describe details. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-02-23
Equipment
1 of 7 total reports mentions: equipment.
Engine
1 of 7 total reports mentions: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
This engine (1983-1986 - 1997CU.in./2.0L sohc L4 G63B) produced by Mitsubishi corporation was fitted with exhaust manifolds created with inferior materials.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-02-17
Electrical system
1 of 7 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing switch.
Show complaint excerpts
While trying to start my truck smoke started coming out of the steering column and the solder connection on the ignition switch melted the solder connection of the wire and the ignition switch.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-04-18
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1995-11-01Seat belts95V103004 The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "Press." If a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to…
Remedy: Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles and carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. They should ensure that both buckles…
Buy-smart checklist
1986 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Equipment: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 95V103004 · Seat belts
FAQ
- Is the 1986 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1986 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 43% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1986 Mitsubishi Mighty MAX have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.