Mitsubishi Minicab vs Suzuki Carry
Two of the most popular kei trucks for US buyers, compared on specs, price, and real-world reliability. Here's how they stack up.
| Mitsubishi Minicab | Suzuki Carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi | Suzuki |
| Engine | 3G83 657cc 3-cylinder | F6A 657cc 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 45 hp |
| Drivetrain | 4WD part-time | 4WD part-time |
| Price range | $4,000 - $10,000 | $5,000 - $12,000 |
| Popularity | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Timing | belt | belt or chain |
| Engine codes | 3G83 | F6A, K6A |
Reliability & common problems
Mitsubishi Minicab
A solid engine, but the least common in the US and the most sensitive to oil starvation of the kei truck engines — religious oil changes are essential.
- Oil-starvation crank-bearing failure — its critical weakness: even short drives on low oil can spin a bearing → deep knock
- Valve clearance widens with age → rhythmic tick/knock (needs periodic adjustment)
- Carburetor gumming / fuel-pressure issues
- Valve-cover gasket leaks; ignition wear → weak spark, rough idle, hard start
Suzuki Carry
The most common kei truck in the US and widely considered bulletproof when serviced. Both the carbureted F6A and EFI K6A have strong high-mileage reputations.
- F6A: cracked/worn distributor cap & rotor (low, exposed mount collects moisture) → misfires and hard wet-weather starts
- F6A: carburetor gumming on trucks that sat → rough idle and stalling
- Oil-pan and valve-cover cork gasket leaks (both engines)
- K6A (EFI): electric cooling-fan relay failure → overheating in traffic