First introduced in 1962 with the Colt 600, relaunched in 1978 and continued through six generations until 2012, the Mitsubishi Colt made its comeback in 2023 with a seventh-generation hybrid. From the 68 bhp of the Colt I to today's petrol and hybrid powertrains, its gearbox has evolved considerably. EDEN BOITES walks you through these transmissions and shares its maintenance and repair advice.
From Manual to Hybrid: the Colt's Transmissions
From 1978 to 2000, the gearboxes changed little: from the Colt I onwards, the model came with a three- or four-speed manual or a two- or three-speed automatic, with subsequent generations simply refining the design. In the early 2000s, the Colt VI introduced a continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering smooth gear changes, while remaining available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
In 2023, the Renault-Nissan partnership allowed the hybrid Colt VII to adopt the E-Tech multimode automatic gearbox with fifteen combinations: the driver selects a mode, and the gearbox then chooses the best combination to optimise drive.
Maintaining the Colt's Gearbox
Whether manual, CVT or E-Tech, your Colt's gearbox needs proper lubrication. Low transmission fluid causes performance to drop, accelerates wear and can lead to serious damage. Check regularly that the level stays within the recommended limits, inspect the condition of the fluid and carry out a drain when necessary, replacing the filters as needed. On the E-Tech version, keep on top of software updates and monitor the battery for correct operation. Stay alert to warning signs too: fluid leaks under the vehicle, unusual noises, a burning smell, difficulty selecting gears or a slipping sensation.
Repairing or Replacing the Colt's Gearbox
When a fault arises, you have two options. Repair involves removing the gearbox, inspecting the components and seals for signs of wear or leaks, then replacing the faulty part. However, this is not always the best course of action: some parts are expensive and difficult to change, and a severely damaged gearbox is often better replaced. The wide variety of transmissions fitted to the Colt makes identifying the correct reference all the more important.
To find the right gearbox, start with your Colt's generation and engine, then check any code that may be stamped on the gearbox itself. A five-speed manual, a CVT and a multimode E-Tech have neither the same architecture nor the same behaviour: fitting an incompatible reference would compromise the result. If in doubt, our advisers can help you confirm compatibility before you order, saving you an unnecessary trip to the garage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gearbox does the hybrid Colt VII use? A multimode E-Tech automatic gearbox with fifteen combinations, derived from Renault-Nissan technology.
What is a CVT gearbox? A continuously variable automatic transmission, introduced on the Colt VI, which delivers smooth, seamless gear changes.
How do I maintain the hybrid version? In addition to monitoring the transmission fluid, keep on top of software updates and check the battery.
Repair or replace a heavily worn gearbox? When parts are costly or the gearbox is severely damaged, replacement with a reconditioned gearbox is often the best solution.
Why Choose EDEN BOITES?
From the original city car to the modern hybrid, the Colt has always needed a reliable transmission. EDEN BOITES reconditions and checks every gearbox before it reaches you.
- Reconditioned gearboxes tested by our technicians before dispatch;
- A warranty of up to 24 months depending on the reference;
- Pay in up to 10 instalments to spread the cost;
- Delivery throughout France and the European Union, with a lead time confirmed on quote;
- A satisfaction-or-money-back guarantee on exchange units, subject to our Terms and Conditions;
- Collection of your old gearbox as part of the exchange, for responsible recycling.
To browse the references available for your vehicle and get a personalised quote, visit our Mitsubishi gearboxes collection.
Browse our gearboxes collection, our articles on the Mitsubishi Space Star gearbox and the Mitsubishi Galant gearbox, and our in-depth guide on the differences between a manual and an automatic gearbox.
