Hello guys. Today while in traffic, my car started acting weird. It felt like it was bogged down and didnt accelerate like normal (there was no boost). The outcome of this though is that I have no boost in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear. It kicks in during 4th & 5th like normal. I scheduled an appointment @ my local mitsu dealer for service, but I was wondering if anyone knew what caused this issue, and what I should look for after the mitsu techs do their work? Thanks in advance.

 

Is your car an VIII or a IX? Is it totally stock and maintaining the stock boost control system? Check all the boost/vacuum line connections for tightness. Check all intercooler hose connections. Do a boost leak test as well.

 

sorry forgot to mention that. Its a stock IX.

 

When you check your boost/vacuum hose connections you'll have to remove the airbox. Underneath it is located the boost control solenoid with three(I think, duh?) hoses connected to it.

There is a hose connecting to the turbocharger compressor discharge nipple, another to the MAF/intake hose, one to the top of the wastegate actuator, and there is a "T" connector central to the boost/vacuum hose assembly as well. Oh yeah, and there is a hose that connects the diverter valve to the intake manifold.

If you have a boost gauge be sure to check the hose that connects to the back of the gauge and the other end which connects to the boost reference source.

Thoroughly inspect the entire hose assembly for any cracks or leaks in the hoses or loose connections.

 

^ will do. So most likely culprit is a boost leak?

 

You have to eliminate the possible causes systematically. The connections on those little boost hoses are notorious for blowing off. The "Boost Leak Test", is a proceedure by which you pressurize the system to a specific pressure and check for any leaks. You need to build a simple device from Home Depot parts. It's spelled out, with images and all, on EvoM if you search for it.