2012 Mitsubishi I-miev problems
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV (MiEV is an acronym for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle) is a five-door electric kei car produced in the 2010s by Mitsubishi Motors, and is the electric version of the Mitsubishi i. Rebadged variants of the i-MiEV are also sold by PSA as the Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-Zero, mainly in Europe. The i-MiEV was the world's first modern highway-capable mass production electric car.
The i-MiEV was launched for fleet customers in Japan in July 2009, and on April 1, 2010, for the wider public. International sales to Asia, Australia and Europe started in 2010, with further markers in 2011 including Central and South America. Fleet and retail customer deliveries in the U.S. and Canada began in December 2011. The American-only version is larger than the Japanese version and has several additional features.
According to the manufacturer, the i-MiEV all-electric range is 160 kilometres (100 mi) on the Japanese test cycle. The range for the 2012 model year American version is 62 miles (100 km) on the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (US EPA) cycle. In November 2011 the Mitsubishi i ranked first in EPA's 2012 Annual Fuel Economy Guide, and became the most fuel efficient EPA certified vehicle in the U.S. for all fuels ever, until it was surpassed by the Honda Fit EV in June 2012 and the BMW i3, Chevrolet Spark EV, Volkswagen e-Golf, and Fiat 500e in succeeding years.
As of July 2014, Japan ranked as the leading market with over 10,000 i-MiEVs sold, followed by Norway with more than 4,900 units, France with over 4,700 units, Germany with more than 2,400 units, all three European countries accounting for the three variants of the i-MiEV family sold in Europe; and the United States with over 1,800 i-MiEVs sold through August 2014. As of early March 2015, and accounting for all variants of the i-MiEV, including the two minicab MiEV versions sold in Japan, global sales totaled over 50,000 units since 2009.
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Common 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev problems
The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, an early electric vehicle, has been criticized for several issues that potential buyers should be aware of. One of the main concerns is its reliability, which is not well-documented due to the limited number of samples available for analysis. However, the vehicle's history of recalls suggests potential issues.
The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV has been recalled six times by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for various problems. The first recall was in 2012 due to potential airbag deployment issues. This was followed by two recalls in 2013 and 2014 concerning a brake vacuum pump failure. These recalls indicate a pattern of reliability issues, particularly with the airbag and brake systems.
Another concern is the vehicle's performance, which has been described as "glorified golf car" due to its underwhelming acceleration and overall driving experience. This may not be a major issue for those looking for a basic electric vehicle for short commutes, but it is worth considering for those who prioritize performance.
The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV also has limited range compared to newer electric vehicles. With an EPA-rated range of just 62 miles, it may not be suitable for those who need to travel long distances regularly or do not have easy access to charging infrastructure. This limitation is common in early electric vehicles, but it is still an important factor to consider when comparing different models.
Finally, the vehicle's charging time on 120V Level 1 charge equipment can be lengthy. Without a 240V charger at home, refilling the battery can take an "eternity," making the vehicle less practical for daily use.
In summary, the 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV has several issues that potential buyers should be aware of, including reliability concerns, underwhelming performance, limited range, and lengthy charging times. While the vehicle may still be a viable option for those looking for an affordable electric vehicle for short commutes, it is important to carefully consider these factors when comparing different models.
How long does Mitsubishi i-MiEV last?
| Mitsubishi i-MiEV | |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Single speed reduction gear |
| Battery | 16 kWh / 58 MJ (Li-ion battery) |
| Range | 160 km (99 mi) (Japanese cycle) 100 km (62 mi) (US EPA cycle) |
| Plug-in charging | 15 A 240 V AC (3.6 kW) on the SAE J1772-2009 inlet, optional CHAdeMO DC rapid charging, adapters for domestic AC sockets (110–240 V) |
Why was Mitsubishi i-MiEV discontinued?
According to Nikkei, the reason the i-MiEV went so long unchanged was a lack of funding and resources. But now that Mitsubishi is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the news outlet reports that there will be a successor to the bubbly EV co-developed with Nissan to be launched in 2023.
What is the range of a 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
And the EPA also says the i MiEV can manage 62 miles range from its 16 kWh battery, the same battery capacity that delivers just 35 miles in a Chevy Volt.
What is the recall on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV?
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2012-2017 i-MiEV vehicles. Water may penetrate the brake assist vacuum pump, causing corrosion and a failure of the brake vacuum pump.
2012 Mitsubishi I-miev complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2012 Mitsubishi I-miev recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2012-2017 i-MiEV vehicles. Water may penetrate the brake assist vacuum pump, causing corrosion and a failure of the brake vacuum pump.
- Consequence: Without the brake vacuum pump, the driver will experience a sudden loss of braking assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake vacuum pump, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-19-002.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2012 and 2014 i-MiEV vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on March 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-001.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage vehicles manufactured July 27, 2013, to November 20, 2013, and 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV vehicles manufactured October 28, 2011, to September 7, 2012. Due to an increased resistance in the impact sensor for the air bag system, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal, side and/or curtain air bags when the SRS warning is illuminated, the frontal air bag may have a delayed deployment and/or the side and curtian air bag may not deploy at all.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not deploy or deploys late, increases the risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected impact sensors, free of charge. The recall began on November 5, 2015. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-15-011.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 i-MiEV electric vehicles manufactured September 15, 2009, to March 25, 2014. Due to either software programming or corrosion caused by road salt, the brake vacuum pump may stop functioning.
- Consequence: If the brake vacuum pump stops functioning, the distance needed to stop the vehicle may be lengthened, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and depending on the affected vehicle, dealers will either reprogram the brake vacuum pump controller, replace the brake vacuum pump or do both, free of charge. The recall began on October 24, 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-14-007.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America is recalling certain model year 2012 i-MiEV electric vehicles manufactured December 2, 2011, through September 7, 2012. The brake system vacuum pump may fail, causing the vacuum pump to be inoperable.
- Consequence: If the vaccum pump system fails, it will reduce available brake power which would result in lengthened stopping distances, which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected vacuum pumps free of charge. The recall began on February 28, 2013. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: Mitsubishi is recalling certain model year 2012 i-MiEV vehicles manufactured between November 4, 2011, and December 22, 2011. Incompatibility between the air bag sensors and the self-diagnostic software may deactivate the frontal and side airbag system. Should this occur, the SRS warning lamp would illuminate to alert the driver.
- Consequence: The side and curtain air bags may not deploy in a crash for which those air bags were intended to deploy, increasing the risk of personal injury to the vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the incompatible air bag sensors with new, compatible units, free of charge. The safety recall began on during August 2012. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037.
Negative 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev car reviews
Positive 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev car reviews
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I've owned this car for over three years and have driven more than 20,000 miles. I bought it used and got a great deal on it. Although I had a couple of issues that were resolved under warranty, the dealership was kind enough to provide me with a free loaner car, so I have no major complaints. It's a basic car that serves its purpose well as an around-town car or for short drives. I don't take it on long trips or the highway. I charge it overnight with the OEM charger, and it lasts me a couple of days due to my short commute and occasional trips to the grocery store. Using the heat in winter causes about a 30% dip in the battery, but the car defrosts while plugged in with the remote. The car has good get-up-and-go from a stop, but it doesn't handle the best in slightly bad weather. However, I installed winter tires and survived just fine. The heated driver's seat is extremely hot, so I rarely use it. The car gets a lot of attention and comments, and it's our primary car that has saved us a lot of trips to the gas station. The seats are very basic and not comfortable for long rides or bumpy roads, and the storage space is minimal. However, the rear seats fold flat. I've even driven 72 miles with only 6 miles left on the guess-o-meter! Update: The car does surprisingly well in Chicago winters with some snow tires. There's a surprising amount of room in the car if you ever have to carry some cargo. I can fit a 7 ft Christmas tree or 15+ bags of mulch and 30+ folding chairs in the car. It's an excellent car for city use or as a work car.
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Hey there! Have you heard about this car? It's similar to Nissan's Leaf, but it's more affordable and has extra headroom!
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Mitsubishi has recently increased their battery warranty to 10 years or 100,000 miles. If you can find a used Miev with under 10,000 miles for under $10,000, you will have made a valuable purchase. Electric cars have fewer parts than their gas counterparts, which means less maintenance and repairs. This is a little-known fact that dealerships don't advertise, as they make more money from maintenance than car sales. By choosing an electric car, you can save money and beat the system. Additionally, if you install a solar array in your backyard or on your house, you can power your car with sunlight. How amazing is that? It's worth noting that there is no sales tax on used electric cars, which saved me an additional $700.
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had a positive experience with your car! It's surprising to hear that Mitsubishi and its dealers haven't been able to sell more of these, as they seem like a great option for anyone looking for an affordable EV. In fact, I think they could be the best selling EV in the USA if more people knew about them. If you're lucky enough to find one of these cars in the under $33K range, I would definitely recommend grabbing it. It's true that there isn't a lot of public knowledge about this car, but that just means you'll be one of the lucky few to own one!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev problems:
2012 iMiev charging problems. New problem | Mitsubishi i-MiEV ...
Mar 22, 2022 ... Well-known member ... Howdy EF and welcome to the forum, Did you replace the 12V starter battery and charge it fully before installation? Do you ...
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV Is the Most Pathetic EV In Existence : r ...
Jun 29, 2023 ... ... 2012-mitsubishi-i-miev-es. Upvote 56. Downvote ... Most of its problems ... It's not that common that everyone would need to go a great distance in ...
There's a Long List of 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Problems | GetJerry.com
Jun 18, 2022 ... The first time was in 2012 for potential airbag deployment issues, followed by two recalls in 2013 and 2014 regarding a brake vacuum pump ...
Problems / Troubleshooting | Mitsubishi i-MiEV Forum
Discuss technical ideas, theories and problems as they relate to owning a Mitsubishi iMiev.
2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Reliability - Consumer Reports
No Detailed Data Available. Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire that is sent to subscribers. In the questionnaire, we ask ...
Other years of Mitsubishi I-miev
Are you having problems with your 2012 Mitsubishi I-miev?
Johann Volkman 2024-09-08
If San Diego Gas and Electric is your utility, then this review applies. I was one of the first adopters in my S. O'side neighborhood. Since an electric car was an experiment, and no used ones available yet in my local area, I took a plunge on the $12K 2012 Mitsubishi (you can get a $7,500 Federal tax rebate and a $2,500 California credit). Even with the special SDG&E EV rates (which require you to charge only at night or pay a penalty), I am averaging 20 miles/$. The Mitsu Mirage gets 50 mpg which at the current price of $3/gallon, works out to 16 miles/$. At around 30K miles, my range is down about 10%. I figure by 40K miles (next year sometime), the car will not be worth keeping unless Mitsubishi honors the battery warranty. Since a replacement battery is $10K (or so), and the car is worth around $4K on Craigslist now, my car has depreciated around $2K/year. I figure I am saving $195 (difference between a year's gas at today's prices in the Mirage vs. the i-MiEV electricity cost). I looked at used Mirages, and they depreciate less, and, are able to get you to work and back after 40K miles. I wonder what California will do with all of the 4 and 5 year old electric cars that are just now trickling into junk yards (Leaf battery exchange is ONLY $5,500-parts only). Will I buy another electric? Heck yeah, but let's see how the 200-mile latest and greatest (Chevy Bolt or Tesla Model 3) holds up first. Sometime in 2018, I'll have to switch to driving my Mitsubishi SUV to work. One last thing, there are so many electric cars in Southern California now that the carpool isn't any faster when traffic is at its worst. Jan 2018 update: Just hit 30K and my range is down 20%. I am just able to make it to work and back. The car still looks great.Too bad some third party doesn't make battery replacements. July 2018 update: I have not noticed any further drop in range. Maybe it's because it is warmer and the car seems to go further in warmer temperatures. Unfortunately, my plant manager won't let me plug my car in at work anymore. I was using an outlet on the side of the building since we have no dedicated EV charger. Now I have to drive my other car whenever I need to go somewhere at lunch or after work since my range has been reduced to getting me to work and back and not much else. For your information, a lot of early Leafs are hitting the junkyard because California hasn't grasped the fact that owners need help funding battery replacements. However, this means I can pick up spare chargers pretty cheap now.
Mckenna Kirlin 2024-07-07
After 2 weeks of daily driving, I am still as satisfied as the first day I got my i-MiEV. It is easy to park, comfortable for its size, and the best part is that it requires NO GAS! If I may suggest some improvements for the i-MiEV engineers, it would be to improve the noise isolation from outside. When in traffic, one can hear outside noise even with the windows closed. Additionally, the suspension/stability could be improved to make freeway commuting smoother and minimize susceptibility to strong winds. Overall, I am very satisfied with the i-MiEV and I highly recommend it if your routine commute is within 50-60 miles in between charges.