Introduction
For owners of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I–IX and other vehicles with the legendary 2.0L 4G63T engine, regular maintenance is key to longevity and performance. One of the most crucial aspects of care is timely engine oil servicing. While many manufacturers suggest longer service intervals, high-performance turbocharged engines like the 4G63T demand oil changes every 5,000 km to keep running at their best.
Why 5,000 km Oil Changes Are Essential
Turbocharged engines operate at higher temperatures and pressures than naturally aspirated motors, which accelerates oil degradation. In the EVO, the turbocharger relies on clean, high-quality oil for lubrication and cooling. Over time, heat and contaminants reduce oil effectiveness, increasing the risk of:
-
Premature turbo wear or failure
-
Reduced engine performance
-
Sludge buildup
-
Increased engine wear due to reduced lubrication
What Happens When Running on Low Oil
Running an EVO or any 4G63T engine on low oil is one of the fastest ways to cause catastrophic damage. Low oil levels mean:
-
Loss of lubrication: Metal components like crankshaft bearings, camshafts, and turbo shafts grind against each other, causing rapid wear.
-
Overheating: Oil also acts as a coolant; without enough, engine and turbo temperatures can spike dangerously.
-
Oil starvation: During acceleration or cornering, the oil pump may suck in air instead of oil, leading to instant bearing failure.
-
Seized engine or turbo: In extreme cases, lack of lubrication can cause complete mechanical lock-up.
Even short periods of low oil operation can permanently damage an engine.
What Happens When Overfilling with Oil
Adding too much oil to the 4G63T can be just as harmful as running it low. Overfilling can cause:
-
Foaming and aeration: Excess oil gets whipped by the crankshaft, introducing air bubbles that reduce lubrication efficiency.
-
Increased crankcase pressure: Can blow out seals and gaskets, leading to leaks.
-
Poor oil control: Excess oil may reach the combustion chamber, causing smoking, fouled plugs, and carbon buildup.
-
Catalytic converter damage: Burning oil contaminates the exhaust system and shortens catalytic converter lifespan.
Always fill to the correct dipstick level, not above.
Using the Correct Oil is Just as Important
The 4G63T engine requires oil with the right viscosity, additive package, and heat resistance to protect components under high boost. Using the wrong oil type or viscosity can lead to:
-
Inadequate film strength under heavy load
-
Poor cold-start protection if oil is too thick
-
Reduced oil pressure if oil is too thin
-
Faster breakdown at high temperatures
-
Increased deposits in the turbocharger and engine
-
Reduced bearing life and potential turbo failure
Recommended oil for stock 4G63T engines: 10W-50, 5W-40, or 10W-40 high-quality synthetic oil.
Choosing the Right Oil Filter
Alongside fresh oil, the correct oil filter is vital for engine protection. Mitsubishi recommends the Genuine Oil Filter MD356000 for all 2.0L 4G63T engines. Aftermarket filters like Z436 or Z411 often have the wrong internal capacity, leading to poor oil flow and reduced filtration performance.
Why MD356000 Is the Best Choice:
-
Designed to maintain proper oil pressure under high boost
-
Correct internal size and capacity for 4G63T lubrication needs
-
Superior filtration media to trap harmful contaminants
-
OEM-tested for performance and reliability
The Risk of Using the Wrong Oil Filter
Using the wrong filter can cause:
-
Oil starvation under load
-
Inconsistent oil pressure
-
Faster engine wear
-
Reduced turbocharger lifespan
Conclusion
If you want your EVO or 4G63T-powered vehicle to perform reliably for years, commit to servicing every 5,000 km with the correct high-quality oil and the Genuine Mitsubishi MD356000 oil filter. It’s a small investment that prevents costly repairs and ensures your engine runs at peak performance.