Gas Guzzling Triton: Exhaust Issues & Check Engine Light

Hey there! I had a somewhat similar issue with my 2004 Mitsubishi Galant (also dealt with a Lancer before). I have some experience working on cars, but I'm no expert. Last year, my engine light came on with similar symptoms, bad fuel economy and that nasty exhaust smell. Took it to my regular workshop, and they diagnosed a faulty electric switching valve. Total repair came to around 140€, parts and labor included. Fixed the problem completely. Before I share more specific details about my experience, could you tell me if you're getting any specific error codes? Also, does the exhaust smell happen more during cold starts? This info would help me understand if you're dealing with the exact same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! You're right, I should've mentioned the details. My Triton has 66729 KM on the clock and had its last service about 3 months ago. The exhaust smell is definitely stronger during cold starts, especially in the morning. Haven't checked the error codes yet since I don't have an OBD reader at home, but planning to get it checked tomorrow at my mechanic. The gas mileage has dropped pretty drastically over the past two weeks. It'd be great to hear more about your repair experience, was it a complex job?

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your Triton. Yeah, those symptoms sound exactly like what I dealt with on my Galant, especially that strong morning smell. Mine had around 72,000 KM when this happened. The repair itself wasn't too complex, honestly. My mechanic had it done in about 2 hours. The electric switching valve was pretty accessible in my case, though I know these Mitsubishi engines can sometimes be a pain to work on. The part itself wasn't too expensive, I think it was around 85€, and labor was another 55€ or so. Just a heads up, when I first noticed the problem, I tried cleaning the valve myself, but that only helped for about a week before the symptoms came back. So I'd recommend just getting it replaced if it turns out to be the same issue. Definitely get those error codes checked first though. The code I got was P0411, which specifically pointed to the secondary air system. Would be interesting to see if you get the same code. Let me know what your mechanic finds out, I'm curious if you're dealing with the exact same thing I did!

Thanks so much for all this detailed info! It's really helpful to hear about your experience, especially since our symptoms match up so closely. I'll definitely get those error codes checked tomorrow and not waste time trying to clean the valve if that's what it turns out to be. The repair cost doesn't sound too bad either, I was worried it might be something much more expensive. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and tips. I'll probably update this thread tomorrow after I get the codes read at my mechanic, so others with similar issues can benefit too. Thanks again for all your help!