CV5W · CV1W
Mitsubishi Delica D:5 import check
CV5W is the factory model code for the Mitsubishi Delica D:5, built for the Japanese market from 2007 to 2019. Other versions carry CV1W. Every genuine car has a chassis (frame) number that starts with its code, such as CV5W-. That number is the one thing that links its Japanese history to its UK records.
CV5W at a glance
- Model code
- CV5W
- Make
- Mitsubishi
- Model
- Delica D:5 (D:5)
- Body
- MPV
- Built
- 2007 to 2019
- Engine
- 4B12 (2359 cc naturally aspirated petrol)
- Drivetrain
- 4WD or FWD
- Japanese trims
- G, G Premium, D Power Package, Chamonix, Urban Gear, Roadest
- Chassis number format
- CV5W-nnnnnnn
From our own model library, compiled from public sources and not yet checked against a second source. UK records sometimes drop the hyphen or the leading zeros of the serial; our check allows for that.
Reading the CV5W chassis code
- CV5W is the 2.4 petrol 4B12 and CV1W the 2.2 turbo-diesel 4N14.
- The earlier Delica is the Space Gear (PD8W and others).
| Code | What it is | Engine | Built |
|---|---|---|---|
| CV5W | Delica D:5 (D:5) | 4B12 | 2007–2019 |
| CV1W | 2.2 turbo-diesel 4N14, from 2012 | 4N14 | 2012–2026 |
Have a chassis number? The chassis decoder reads it for you.
Is it a genuine CV5W?
Mitsubishi keeps the W in its chassis numbers (CV5W-…). The diesel CV1W is still built, so the code alone doesn’t date it.
Known problems to check on a CV5W
- Power sliding door and tailgate motors, cables and catches: run each one through a full open and close
- Rust on the rear subframe and sills on cars from snowy regions
- Diesel (CV1W): the particulate filter and EGR need regular long runs; check for warning lights
- Japanese-market radio and sat-nav need a band expander or replacement in the UK
These are common issues for the model, not facts about any particular car. Ask the seller about each one.
Before you buy
- Check the four-wheel drive selector and its warning lights
- Ask whether the speedometer has been converted to mph, and when, so the MOT mileages make sense
The CV5W on a Japanese auction sheet
- The sheet names the van デリカD:5 (Delica D:5), with ディーゼル for diesel.
- Cars from snowy northern Japan can have more underbody rust than the auction grade suggests: look underneath before you buy
Most imports were bought at a Japanese auction, and the inspector’s sheet records the grade, mileage and every mark on the body. Ask the seller for it, then run it through our auction sheet translator to read it in English and check the chassis number and mileage against the UK record.
Recalls in Japan for the CV5W family
Japan publishes every recall with the chassis numbers it covers. Run a recall check with the car’s chassis number to see whether any apply to it.
MOT record in the UK
Mitsubishi Delica
- 40% of 2,613 first MOT tests failed in 2024 and 2025, 11% higher than the UK average for cars of the same age.
- Most common advisory: Engine oil leaks: leak, but not excessive (19% of tests).
- Most common failure: Rear fog lamp: not working (6.7% of tests).
From DVSA’s anonymised MOT data, licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Kilometres, miles and the first UK MOT
A CV5W sold new in Japan has a speedometer in kilometres. When it is imported, the speedometer is either converted to miles or left in km, and the first UK MOT should record whichever the dial shows. Mistakes here are common, and they’re where mileage problems hide.
We put the Japanese auction mileage and every UK MOT reading on one timeline and check the crossing: whether the readings agree after converting, whether the km figure was written down as miles, and whether the first UK reading is lower than the car had already done in Japan. See an illustrative example.
What we haven’t confirmed yet
We only state what we’re confident of. We haven’t yet checked these points about the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 against a second source, so treat them with care:
- The 2.0 petrol D:5 codes (reported as CV2W and CV4W), which we haven’t added.
Know the answer? Email [email protected].
Questions
What is the chassis code for the Mitsubishi Delica D:5?
CV5W, with CV1W for other engines or drive layouts. A Japanese-market Mitsubishi Delica D:5 has a frame number that starts with its code, then a hyphen and a serial number. You’ll find it on the V5C and on a plate in the engine bay.
Which years was the CV5W built?
From 2007 to 2019, with the 4B12 (2359 cc naturally aspirated petrol) engine and 4WD or FWD layout.
What should I check when buying a CV5W?
Power sliding door and tailgate motors, cables and catches: run each one through a full open and close. Rust on the rear subframe and sills on cars from snowy regions. Diesel (CV1W): the particulate filter and EGR need regular long runs; check for warning lights. Japanese-market radio and sat-nav need a band expander or replacement in the UK. Check the four-wheel drive selector and its warning lights. Ask whether the speedometer has been converted to mph, and when, so the MOT mileages make sense. Also check that the Japanese auction mileage lines up with the first UK MOT, because km and miles are easily mixed up.