Delica's Diesel Nightmare: Black Smoke & Starting Issues

Had similar issues with my 2009 Mitsubishi Pajero diesel about six months ago. The symptoms were pretty much identical to what you're describing, black smoke, hard starts, and that annoying glow plug light that wouldn't go away. Took it to my regular mechanic, and after diagnostics, they found that two glow plugs were completely worn out and one was on its way out. They changed all four to be on the safe side. The job also included cleaning the glow plug holes and checking the wiring harness, which had some corrosion. It wasn't a super complicated fix, but it's definitely not something you want to ignore. Poor glow plug function can lead to more serious issues with the DPF and fuel injection system if left unchecked. Mine was running rough for about a month before I got it sorted, and I noticed a massive difference in cold starts and overall performance after the repair. Make sure whoever works on it knows diesel engines well, not all mechanics are equally experienced with them, especially with Mitsubishi diesels. The symptoms you're describing sound spot-on for glow plug issues.

Thanks that's really helpful! Mine sounds exactly like what you went through. Actually feeling a bit better knowing it might just be the glow plugs. Do you remember roughly how much you paid for the whole job? Also, has everything been running smooth since the fix, or have you noticed any other problems?

Hey again! Yeah, since my last post, I can confirm it was definitely the glow plugs. Just wanted to update you, I got it sorted about two weeks ago, and it cost me 560€ to fix the faulty glow plug relay. I know it might sound a bit steep, but honestly, it was worth every penny. The car's running like a dream now, those cold morning starts that used to be such a pain are now smooth as butter. No more black smoke, and that annoying glow plug light has finally stopped haunting my dashboard! It's funny how something relatively straightforward can cause so many symptoms, right? Since the fix, I haven't had a single issue. The engine's running much cleaner, and I can definitely feel the difference in performance. My mechanic did a proper job checking everything while they were at it, which gave me peace of mind. If you're still on the fence about getting it checked, I'd say go for it. The longer you wait, the more chance there is of it causing other problems. Plus, being able to start your car without crossing your fingers every morning is pretty nice! Let me know if you need any other info about my experience with the repair.

Thanks so much for the detailed update! I actually just got back from the mechanic yesterday, and you were spot on. Took your advice and got it checked out, turns out it was indeed the glow plugs causing all the drama. The whole job set me back about 600€, which included replacing three faulty glow plugs and cleaning everything up. The mechanic I found was actually great, really took the time to explain everything and even showed me the old parts. You're right about the difference, it's like driving a different car now! Started up this morning without any fuss, no more black smoke, and that pesky engine light is finally off. Such a relief not having to wait forever for it to start or worry about that smoke in my rearview mirror. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it gave me the push I needed to get it sorted before it turned into something worse. Definitely feels good to have this sorted out properly!