# Used Mitsubishi Pajero NX (2015–2021): Problems and Which Years to Buy > What's reported on the last Mitsubishi Pajero, the NX, including the 2016–19 control arm recall, and what to check at the car. Last updated: 6 November 2026. Web page: https://shufti.com.au/checklists/used-mitsubishi-pajero-inspection-checklist/nx. Engines: 3.2 turbo-diesel (4M41). ## Common Problems on a Used NX Pajero The NX is the last Pajero, and it's diesel only. Reports centre on inlet and EGR carbon, surging from the suction control valve and sticking turbo actuators. The one to check first is the recall for the front right control arm on 2016–19 cars, which can affect steering. ### Is an NX Pajero reliable? It's the most developed version of an old design, and it has fewer reports than earlier cars, though it's also younger. The control arm recall is the first thing to confirm. ## Pajero NX Problems ### 3.2 diesel - **Carbon clogging the inlet manifold and EGR valve.** Covers: 3.2-litre diesels, more with age and kilometres. It builds with age and kilometres and restricts airflow. Cleaning it is a job to price in. - What to check: On the test drive, feel for sluggish pickup or rough running. - Ask the seller: Has the inlet manifold or EGR valve ever been cleaned? - **Surging or sudden power loss from the suction control valve.** Covers: 3.2-litre diesels. This valve meters fuel to the high-pressure pump, and dirty fuel is often blamed. Losing power in traffic is the danger, so have it diagnosed before you buy. - What to check: Hold a light, steady throttle and watch the idle at a standstill. It should stay smooth. - Ask the seller: Has the suction control valve been replaced, and were fuel filters changed on time? - **Sticking turbo actuator or turbo failure.** Covers: Reported up to 2020. A sticking actuator can start with lost power and end in a turbo replacement, so don't ignore it. - What to check: Accelerate firmly from low speed and feel for a flat spot or limp mode. - Ask the seller: Has the turbo or its actuator had any work? - **Oil leaks from the rocker cover.** Covers: Reported on 2014–19 cars. Usually a gasket job, but burning oil smells and grime on the engine are worth pricing in. - What to check: Look around the top of the engine with a torch for fresh oil. - **Oil and coolant leaks around the timing case.** Covers: 3.2-litre diesels. Getting to the timing case is a big job, so even a small leak is worth pricing in. - What to check: With a torch, look at the front of the engine for wet oil or coolant. ### All years - **Oil leaking from the rear diff.** Covers: All years, and more likely on Pajeros that have towed heavy loads. Oil can leak where the axle shafts leave the diff. Caught early it's a cheap seal job; run dry, the diff can be damaged. - What to check: With a torch, look at the rear diff and the backs of the rear wheels for wet oil or caked grime. - **Worn rear diff bushes.** Covers: Reported from about 2010. Worn bushes let the diff move, which shows up as clunks and is worth pricing in. - What to check: On the test drive, listen for a clunk from the rear when you take off or change direction. - **Worn front ball joints and swivel hub bearings.** Covers: Reported on 2007–17 cars. Both affect steering and front-end stability, and heavy off-road use wears them faster. - What to check: Feel for wander or looseness in the steering, and listen for knocks over bumps. - **Air conditioning failure.** Covers: Reported on 2013–17 cars. A failed system is an expensive repair in an Australian summer. - What to check: Run the air conditioning on full cold from the start of the test drive. ## Which NX Pajero Years to Avoid? No year stands out, but 2016–19 cars need the control arm recall confirmed. It's a safety recall, so don't skip it. Our shortlist: Any NX with its recalls confirmed and full service history. Stability control is standard, but AEB wasn't available. ### What changed, by build date - Sept 2014: NX goes on sale in GLX, GLS and Exceed, diesel only. - Aug 2019: Recall for the front right control arm weld on 2016–19 cars. - Mar 2021: Production ends. ## Recalls to Confirm - Feb 2015: Pajero, 2006–2014. Timing chain tensioner can let the chain break, which may stop the engine. [PRA 2015/14559](https://www.vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-001025) - June 2016: Some Pajeros, listed with five other Mitsubishis. No years are given, so check by VIN. Worn indicator and light switch terminals can stop lights working. [PRA 2016/15466](https://www.vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-001032) - Aug 2019: 2016–2019. Weak weld on the front right lower control arm can affect steering and stability. [PRA 2019/17777](https://www.vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-001050) - Mar 2023: 2020–2022, an accessory with a button battery. Sold without the required button battery warning. [PRA 2023/19809](https://www.vehiclerecalls.gov.au/recalls/rec-005634) ### Which NX Pajeros have the control arm recall? The recall lists 2016–2019 Pajeros, with a weak weld on the front right lower control arm. Ask a Mitsubishi dealer whether it was done on that VIN. ### Does an NX have AEB? No. Stability control is standard, but AEB wasn't available, even though the ANCAP rating is 5 out of 5 from 2011 testing. ### Is the NX the last Pajero? Yes. Production ended in March 2021. --- Shufti is an Australian used car inspection app for iPhone and Android that tailors the inspection to the exact car you're looking at. It is not affiliated with Shufti Pro, the identity verification (KYC) company. From the listing link, it builds every check around that car's make, model and year, odometer reading and the seller's description. It runs PPSR and government recall checks, crosschecks a database of more than 3 million recalls and owner complaints, flags problems from your photos and audio, plans a test drive, produces a shareable report with repair cost estimates, and coaches you through the negotiation. A Tailored check costs $24.99, or $49.99 for three, including PPSR and recall checks. A mechanic's pre-purchase inspection costs $250–350. To start, Shufti's General inspection guide is free: pick the car's make and model, and it takes you through the checks that matter for that model, on your phone. There's a guide for popular models, and one for every type of car. Made by Frontpoint Digital Pty Ltd (ABN 23 669 870 366), Melbourne, Australia. Contact: hello@shufti.com.au. 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