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Used Mitsubishi Triton: Pre-purchase checklist

Where Can I Find the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)?

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is composed of 17 characters (digits and capital letters) that act as a unique identifier for the vehicle. A VIN displays the car's unique features, specifications and manufacturer.

The VIN can be found in a couple of places including on the car's registration label (1), on the compliance plate in the engine bay (2) or on the passenger side windshield (3), or on one of the door posts (where the door latches when it is closed) (4). See the image below:

Look for the VIN in these other locations:

  • Insurance card/Insurance policy
  • Vehicle title and registration certificate

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Over the past 30 years, the Mitsubishi Triton has developed a reputation in Australia for its strength and durability. However, if you're looking to buy one used, there are some essential checks you'll need to conduct to help ensure this utility vehicle lives up to its tough reputation.

Why are Mitsubishi Tritons so popular in Australia?

Australian drivers appreciate the grunt and power of the Triton paired with a sleek, sporty exterior. As well as style and performance, Tritons offer lots of space for passengers, sports equipment and work gear. Some other benefits include:

Excellent fuel efficiency: Tritons are known for being fuel efficient, and the recent Triton GLX 4x4 recorded the lowest running costs of vehicles tested in the 4WD utility class according to the RAA's 2017 Cost of Vehicle Ownership survey.1

Four-wheel drive capability: With a range of different 4WD options, the Mitsubishi Triton offers drivers more control when towing heavy loads, driving in bad weather or on uneven surfaces.

Towing performance: The Mitsubishi Triton was designed to be able to pull loads of 3,000 kg,2 and this hardy vehicle has proven to be a real workhorse with a superior payload.

Value for money: The Triton's value for money was apparent in the RAA's 2017 Cost of Vehicle Ownership survey, which showed that the GLX 4x4 had the lowest recommended retail price and depreciation of the 4x4 LCVs tested.3

Large range of accessories: Mitsubishi Genuine Accessories are affordable, easy to source, durable and reliable. Accessories such as the tow bar, tow ball, electric brake harness and the electric brake controller all work together to provide an excellent towing experience.

Diesel engines: Mitsubishi Tritons feature quiet, fuel-efficient engines and diesel powered vehicles like the Triton can result in significant savings when it comes to fuel.

What to check before purchasing a used Mitsubishi Triton

Although Tritons are great as off-road vehicles, consistent heavy usage can still take a toll over time.

  1. Check that the tray and rear steps are in good shape, as some Triton trays are long and can sometimes jut out of many parking spots.4
  2. Look underneath the ute you're interested in for body damage such as rust, crushed parts from uneven roads and worn suspension or CV boots around the wheels and axles.
  3. Check the clutch and transmission, which could have been strained by heavy usage. 
  4. Inspect the rear panels and tow bar - damage may be a result of towing excessive loads.
  5. Check for dents and scratches in the tray, which can indicate overuse.

Check the ACCC for any Mitsubishi Triton recalls

If an issue is identified in any vehicle, it will be recalled by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The ACCC product safety recall process involves:

  • Stopping the supply of a product; and
  • Warning consumers and offering a remedy in the form of a repair, replacement or refund.

You should check with the current owner of the Triton you're interested in to find out whether it has been recalled or not. In 2016, Mitsubishi issued a recall for over 57,000 ML and MN Tritons from the 2007 to 2014 model-years. The recall was due to defective Takata airbags, which can release metal fragments when deployed.5

Mitsubishi Australia should have contacted the owners of the affected vehicles to have the airbag inflator inspected and replaced, but it's still important to check the ACCC website and to discuss any recalls with the current owner. 

Get a CarHistory report to ensure peace of mind.Make sure you check the reported history of any used vehicle with a CarHistory report.

Check the vehicle's reported history with a CarHistory report

A CarHistory report can provide you with comprehensive information on a used vehicle's reported history, no matter how many states and territories it has been registered in. Based on the Triton's registration or vehicle identification number (VIN), a CarHistory report can provide information on whether the Triton has been stolen or written-off, if there's any finance owing, or if there's a potential odometer wind-back.

It's vital that you check the history of any used vehicle you're planning on purchasing to help ensure value for money and reliability. For more information about buying a used car, get in touch with CarHistory today.

1. RAA.com.au. Cost of Vehicle Ownership survey. Accessed July 2018.

2. Motoring.com.au. Mitsubishi Triton 2017 Review. Accessed July 2018.

3. RAA.com.au. Cost of Vehicle Ownership survey. Accessed July 2018.

4. Caradvice.com.au. Mitsubishi Triton Specs. Accessed July 2018.

5. Caradvice.com.au. Mitsubishi Triton added to recall list. Accessed July 2018.

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