Mitsubishi Mirage problems
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a range of cars produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi from 1978 until 2003 and again since 2012. The hatchback models produced between 1978 and 2003 were classified as subcompact cars, while the sedan and station wagon models, marketed prominently as the Mitsubishi Lancer, were the compact offerings. The liftback introduced in 1988 complemented the sedan as an additional compact offering, and the coupé of 1991 fitted in with the subcompact range. The current Mirage model is a subcompact hatchback and sedan and it replaces the Mitsubishi Colt sold between 2002 and 2012.
Nameplate history
The Mirage has a complicated marketing history, with a varied and much convoluted naming convention that differed substantially depending on the market. Mitsubishi used the Mirage name for all five generations in Japan, with all but the first series badged as such in the United States. However, other markets often utilized the name Mitsubishi Colt and sedan variants of the Mirage have been widely sold as the Mitsubishi Lancer—including in Japan where the two retailed alongside one another. In Japan, the Mirage was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.
In the United States and Canada, the first four generations were sold through a venture with Chrysler as the Dodge Colt and the similar Plymouth-badged Champ and Colt. Later, the venture brought the Eagle Vista and Summit branded models which sold alongside the aforementioned. Confusingly, Chrysler has also offered an unrelated Dodge Lancer at various stages between the 1950s and 1980s. However, when DaimlerChrysler briefly controlled Mitsubishi through the DaimlerChrysler-Mitsubishi alliance from 2000 through to 2004, the license to the "Lancer" name was relinquished to Mitsubishi for usage in North America. Thus, after the fifth and final generation Mirage, replacement models in North America have adopted the new name.
Mitsubishi introduced replacements for the fifth series of Mirage, starting in 2000 with a new generation of Lancer—now larger, having moved up to the compact segment. Then in 2002, a subcompact five-door hatchback badged Colt globally became available. By 2003, the Mirage and its derivatives had been completely phased out of mainstream Japanese production. For the 2002-era Colt's replacement in 2012, Mitsubishi decided to resurrect the Mirage name internationally for a new sixth generation model.
With the rising popularity of boxy subcompact SUVs in Japan, the Mirage nameplate was used on a domestic market-only model called the Mirage Dingo, from 1999. The Dingo was facelifted in 2001 and canceled in 2003. However, New Zealand sold a very different Mirage from 2002—a rebadged Dutch-manufactured Mitsubishi Space Star labeled Mirage Space Star. This vehicle was not very popular and was discontinued in 2003.
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Mitsubishi Mirage model years
Common Mitsubishi Mirage problems
The Mitsubishi Mirage has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to its engine, brakes, and transmission.
One of the most frequently reported issues with the Mitsubishi Mirage is its tendency for premature brake wear. This issue can lead to a significant safety hazard, as well as an unwelcome expense for car owners.
Another common problem with the Mitsubishi Mirage is related to its engine, specifically with the distributor. Some owners have reported that their car will not start due to a failed distributor. This issue can be particularly frustrating, as it can leave car owners stranded and unable to use their vehicle.
The Mitsubishi Mirage has also been known to have issues with its manual transmission shifting. This problem can make it difficult to change gears, which can be particularly problematic in stop-and-go traffic or when trying to merge onto a highway.
In addition to these specific issues, the Mitsubishi Mirage has also been criticized for its overall reliability. Some owners have reported that the car is prone to electrical system troubles, which can lead to a variety of issues, including problems with the car's starting system, power windows, and power locks.
Furthermore, the Mitsubishi Mirage has been criticized for its safety features, specifically its airbags. Some owners have reported that their car's airbags may not deploy as expected in the event of a collision. This issue can be particularly concerning, as airbags are a critical safety feature in any vehicle.
Overall, the Mitsubishi Mirage has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to its engine, brakes, and transmission. While some of these issues can be relatively minor, others can be more serious and potentially dangerous. As with any vehicle, it is important for Mitsubishi Mirage owners to stay up-to-date on any recalls or service bulletins related to their car, and to address any issues as soon as they arise.
Is a Mitsubishi Mirage a reliable car?
The Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the most reliable subcompact cars on the road. RepairPal gave the Mitsubishi Mirage a 4.5 out of 5 reliability rating. This car has a lower than average annual repair and maintenance cost, frequency of repairs, and probability of needing a major fix.
What is the weakness of Mitsubishi Mirage?
The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage gets great fuel economy, but it suffers from weak acceleration, lazy handling, and a so-so ride quality.
How long will a Mitsubishi Mirage engine last?
With proper care, regular maintenance, and attention to driving conditions, it's not uncommon for a Mitsubishi Mirage to last well over 100,000 miles and even reach 200,000 miles or more.
Why not buy Mitsubishi Mirage?
Though it's relatively roomy inside, the cabin feels drab, cheap, insubstantial, and a bit depressing. In the end, there is no compelling reason to buy a Mirage, especially because much better used cars are available for the same price. BSW, RCTW, and highway-speed AEB aren't available.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mitsubishi Mirage years
We have researched Mitsubishi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mitsubishi Mirage cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mitsubishi Mirage model years:
- Mitsubishi Mirage 1997
- Mitsubishi Mirage 1993
- Mitsubishi Mirage 1995
- Mitsubishi Mirage 1994
- Mitsubishi Mirage 1999
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mitsubishi Mirage model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mitsubishi Mirage years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mitsubishi Mirage car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mitsubishi Mirage , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mitsubishi Mirage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mirage model years
A total of 189 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mirage model years
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mirage model years
There were a total of 162 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Mirage model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 779 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mitsubishi Mirage . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mitsubishi Mirage vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mitsubishi Mirage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32A4HJ4KH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: On [XXX], I was traveling back to Colorado from Missouri. The weather conditions turned poor while I was traveling just west of Topeka, Kansas. I lowered my speed to below the speed limit and continued. At one point, the car lost control. At this time, it veered to left and hit hard against median. Smashing the driver side front end substantially. Airbags did not deploy at this time. My head smashed into the frame to the left of the steering wheel concussing me. (Diagnosed later by an ER Doctor, notes provided in upload) After hitting on the left median, the car then bounced across both lanes of the highway and smashed the concrete median of an overpass. On this second collision the airbags also did not deploy. Before 2023 was over or in the first few days of 2024 I notified Mitsubishi of the issue. They quickly sent me a company called: TM Claims Service, Inc. Out of Pasadena, California. I provided them all of the documentation months ago and have received no communication after they've received it. To my knowledge, there were no previous issues with the airbags or the system that runs them. If I had to estimate the first impact would have been between 50-60mph and the second at least 40-50mph. I could have easily been killed in this situation and I am disappointed in the handling of this. Note the Police Report is not as specific as this and implies one collision, as seen in the photos provided there were two. At this point I do not know where the vehicle is, as it almost been a year and I was trying to work with Mitsubishi on this. I do know if the airbags were inspected following. [XXX] is my correspondence trying to resolve this matter or have it further investigated. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mitsubishi Mirage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32A3HJ8KH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bags didn't deploy after impact in crash. Safety of driver was put at severe risk due to such malfunction of deployment of air bags. Vehicle has been inspected by the police and the insurance company. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. AEB didn't engage when driver applied breaks during crash. Safety of driver was put at severe risk due to such malfunction of this breaking system. Vehicle has been inspected by the police and the insurance company. There were no warning lights, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-22
- VIN: ML32A3HJ0JH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 - 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that while making a left turn, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, after refueling, the vehicle stalled. The accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond or move forward. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the battery was not charging the computer. The battery was replaced, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 19,036.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32A4HJ7HH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was involved in an accident which rendered my Mitsubishi Mirage a total loss. There was severe damage to the front driver's side of my vehicle. I am concerned because none of the air bags deployed. I was traveling at approximately 40 mph when a large pickup truck with a brush guard on the front ran a red light and collided with my vehicle.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-15
- VIN: ML32AUHJ0NH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The component is the vehicles radio system. When the vehicle is started with the key, the radio immediately comes on without pushing the button. The radio is turned off manually before turning the vehicle off. This is a safety complaint and a safety distraction when driving in reverse or foward. I have almost hit other people and objects, because you dont expect the radio to come on without manually turning it on. The vehicle was seen at the deallership, and the problem confirmed. This vehicle was purchased brand new. The problem was noticed a few months after the purchase, but it was not being driven daily. No warning lights or messages have been noted. Now as a daily driver this safety concern exist, every time the vehicle is started
Mitsubishi Mirage 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32AUHJ4MH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I had a very serious accident last week while driving my 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage. The front of my vehicle was significantly impacted, but none of the airbags were deployed. I can't believe that this nearly brand-new car, which had all the inspections and services at the manufacturer's centers, has this problem. This is a life-threatening failure of a crucial safety component that didn't work during the accident. Everything has been documented by both the insurance company and myself and can be shown to other parties.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-17
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32F3FJ6HH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4. The contact stated that after she took her sleep medication, she was unaware that she had gotten into her vehicle. The contact stated that while driving asleep at an undisclosed speed, she side-swiped two other parked vehicles, causing damage to the front end of her vehicle. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. She woke up after crashing into the other vehicles and called 911. No air bags deployed upon impact. A police report was filed. The contact sustained whiplash, a concussion, and bruising to her chest and collarbone. Medical attention was received. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard; however, the vehicle had not yet been inspected by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V330000 (Air Bags) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-20
- VIN: ML32F3FJ7HH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This has happened 4 times in the last 2 weeks. While driving on the Interstate, the ABS light and skid control lights come on, shortly after all lights and the radio go off and the vehicle loses power. No power even when flooring the gas petal. Getting over to the side of the road, you can turn off the engine, sit for a few minutes, then all is fine. Diagnostics have been run showing no problems. Heading to the dealer, if I make it today! 150,000 miles.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-29
- VIN: ML32A3HJ2HH
- Components: SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The driver seatbelt doesn’t lock to where it unlocks while driving. Also brakes have to be replaced often then the power control sensor made the car go limp out of no where. The engine light didn’t come on til way later after the car wouldn’t work properly. This is all a hazard to the person driving bc of the car goes limp out of no where it can cause an accident bc it stops working like if it’s on neutral but in reality it’s in drive. Please help!! I don’t even know who can look at my car.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-13
- VIN: JA3AY11A81U
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage. The contact stated that the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract, and the driver was unable to remove the seat belt from the buckle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the failure as a retraction failure and that the seat belt needed to be replaced. The seat belt was not repaired nor replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-10
- VIN: ML32AUHJ0NH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH, the brake warning light illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road and called roadside assistance per the manufacturer's manual. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that no issues were found. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 7,500.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-10
- VIN: ML32A3HJ6KH
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: So after my car at about 2,000 miles on it my front strut mounts gave out I had them inspected and was told that they were bad the car was practically brand new I was having a lot of noise coming from the front end and I noticed that my car took a lot longer to brake than it should. And I believe that this is a safety concern because it shouldn't be going out that soon and the increased breaking distance associated with it increases the risk of accidents. And the strut mounts should not be bad from that early on. Also another problem that my vehicle has had that I haven't gotten diagnosed yet is there is a popping sound coming from the transaxle where the axle goes into the transmission and a delay in acceleration sometimes and other times my car randomly jolts forward. And I have to explanation as to why. And the third problem that I've had from about the same mileage as my car randomly not turning on though not a safety concern unless you really need to get somewhere it still shouldn't have that problem with so little miles and it's never been in an accident. I just remembered one other thing my car rolls if the parking brake is not on which I feel like that is a safety concern it will roll about a good four or five inches and it is really sketchy and it does not have enough mileage on it to be doing this and I have never been in an accident it started doing this around the same time all these problems arose around about 2,000 miles on my car and I have to have my e-brake on just to feel comfortable to park it and I have a friend who also has a Mitsubishi and hers doesn't do that and I feel like it has something to do with the popping sound in the transmission area.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-07
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-09
- VIN: ML32A3HJ4FH
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Vent Blower failure: Past 4 months on 4 occasions vent blower intermittently would not come on but would come back on after 15 to 30 minutes, approximately. The last 3 days of vehicle operation the vent blower motor does not come on at all with the first of 3 days the blower could be heard running at an extremely low speed. The vents at windshield and blower filter have remained free of obstruction and well maintained. The vent blower failure impacts safety to myself and others due to the inability to mitigating fogging on the windows which severely impacts visibility. The problem has not, as of yet, been addressed to my dealership/independent service center: Owner has extensive electronic & electrical background and is an expert troubleshooter. The harnesses at fuse panel and blower motor have been verified and appear proper and the fuse was not blown. I do not have a schematic of this electrical system and voltage at blower harness was not checked. (My thoughts on problem areas that may be impacting this safety concern whether it is an isolated case or widespread problem: Blower Motor - failed windings, thermal overload, bearings, and brushes/pitting as applicable. Vent Controller component failure. Wiring and harness issue.) I intend to bring this safety concern issue to manufacturer or dealership or independent service center as it is affordable. Symptoms: See first paragraph. The blower failure was 4 times at car start-up and once while driving.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-22
- VIN: ML32A5HJ4KH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: My 2019 mirage kept shutting off at random times. Although it started right back at first now it won't start at all. I was driving and with no warning my car shuts off and I'm on a pretty busy highway and I have to steer it off the road traffic flying by me. My so 2 years is in the car as well and his safety as mine was put in jeopardy and is something that needs to be fixed right away. And needs to be first on recall list.
Mitsubishi Mirage 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-13
- VIN: ML32A3HJ6FH
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: mirage 2015 DL Automatic trasmission CVT, The rubber on the driver's left side has a buzzing sound, the caliper was replaced. CV Axle was replaced. Left side By manufacturer's warranty. on that side of the left side and also has a Wheel Bearing problem. on the left side it is making a very huge humming noise and they do not want to give me a guarantee because they indicate that I am the second owner. of the vehicle and therefore they only gave me a guarantee up to 30,000 miles I want to report that this is a vehicle defect.
Latest 5 recalls Mitsubishi Mirage
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 51 recalls for different components of the Mitsubishi Mirage.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mitsubishi Mirage 2018
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-30
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The internal acceleration sensor in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations such as those from poor road conditions or a flat tire to be a sensor error thereby disabling the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as designed in a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SRS-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-006.
- Model: Mitsubishi Mirage 2016
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-30
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The internal acceleration sensor in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations such as those from poor road conditions or a flat tire to be a sensor error thereby disabling the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as designed in a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SRS-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-006.
- Model: Mitsubishi Mirage 2017
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-30
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The internal acceleration sensor in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations such as those from poor road conditions or a flat tire to be a sensor error thereby disabling the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as designed in a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SRS-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-006.
- Model: Mitsubishi Mirage 2015
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-30
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The internal acceleration sensor in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations such as those from poor road conditions or a flat tire to be a sensor error thereby disabling the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as designed in a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SRS-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-006.
- Model: Mitsubishi Mirage 2014
- Report Received Date: 2017-10-30
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The internal acceleration sensor in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations such as those from poor road conditions or a flat tire to be a sensor error thereby disabling the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as designed in a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SRS-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-006.
Latest negative Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
Latest positive Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1994
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it brand new back in 1994 and it's been a great ride ever since. I did have one issue where it wouldn't start after being parked at the mall, but it only cost me $250 to fix. Other than that, I've only had to change the oil every 6000 miles on average (and replace the tires a couple of times). Overall, I think it's a very reliable car. Plus, it has air conditioning and a manual transmission, which I love!
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! I've owned a lot of cars over the years, from muscle cars to Hondas, and I'm also a mechanic. Recently, I bought a Mirage for only $500 with 253,000 miles on it, and I have to say, it's been a great investment. It runs like a top and gets fantastic gas mileage - I'm getting 30-32 MPG in the city just by using 87 octane gas! It's incredibly dependable, and I know it's going to start every time I get in it. Of course, there are a few cons - the window regulators are cable driven and are famous for the cables to break. But it only takes about 15 minutes to swap one out, and I was able to find replacements at my local junk yard for only $60. I also had to replace the fuel sending unit, but that was a breeze too - the access port is under the back seat, and it only took three 8 mm bolts to get the job done. All in all, I absolutely love this little car, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable A-to-B vehicle or a great first car!
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Vehicle year: 2000
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 00 Mirage. I bought it used with 21k and it has been a great car for me. I didn't have any major or costly issues until August 00. To keep it running smoothly, I did 3 tune ups and an oil change every 3-4 months. The car never broke down on me, but as a preventive measure, I had the water pump and timing belt changed at 65K.
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Vehicle year: 2018
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my 2018 Mirage ES 5 speed that I bought in November of 2017 for $9988 plus tax/license. I have to say, for that price and after 82,500 miles, it has been one of my best small cars! Here's why: The 3 cylinder engine is both refined and reliable, and surprisingly powerful for its size. While it accelerates somewhat slowly (like a 250cc motorcycle), it keeps up with legal traffic and can hold 65mph on the highway if needed with two adults at 3400 rpm, which is about half throttle. (Engine red line is 6,500rpm.) The interior is comfortable and handling is nimble and secure at normal speeds, and interior noise is low to moderate. Plus, it has bluetooth/USB and touchscreen controls, although I mostly use the manual controls and listen to the radio using the steering wheel mounted buttons. It also has power locks/windows and numerous airbags, and even a backup camera, which is a nice touch. In year-round driving in a hilly part of the nation, I have averaged 47 mpg, which is amazing! The car can even get over 50 mpg if it's flat or I'm more careful. My wife had a 2012 Prius C and the Mirage has a similar 'feel' and fuel efficiency- after 6 years it still feels tight and solid. My only complaints are that the manual transmission felt 'notchy' at first and takes about 3,000 miles to break in smoothly. That said, the gear ratios are perfectly spaced for the engine and allow the car to cruise most roads at under 3,000 rpm. The windows tend to fog up in winter unless the fan is on, but that's a minor issue. I replaced the original Dunlop tires (which wore out at 25,000 miles) with cheap Federal tires ($40 each, which wore out after 24,000 miles) and put on Kumho tires for $59 each. The Kumhos perform the best of the 3 brands so far, and I just replaced them again last week. Overall, I highly recommend the Mirage ES 5 speed for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient small car!You can expect to get no more than 25,000 miles out of the tires on this car, but fortunately they are cheap. The car did develop a small muffler/heat shield rattle that needed to be repaired, but it was a minor fix. At 35,000 miles, I had to replace the front brakes and rotors because they had rusted excessively and would not pass state inspection. There is a lot of winter salt on the roads around here, so that may have contributed to the rust. They were replaced again at 78,000 miles. I have been diligent in changing the synthetic oil every 6,000-7,000 miles and changing the air filters at 30,000 and 60,000 miles, as well as the windshield wipers twice. At 51,000 miles, I changed the manual transmission oil with Redline brand, which is equal or superior to OEM. Everything else is original and still feels solid. UPDATE 9-12-2023: The engine began burning a quart of oil every 3,000 miles this summer. Not a big deal since everything still drives normally, but I rarely took this car over 3,500 rpm so it was not abused. Online forums have mentioned this occurrence, and those owners have obtained 150,000 plus miles, so I'll have to check it regularly and see what happens. A Mirage is not the smoothest, fastest, quietest, fanciest, or best-handling car on the road, but it is not supposed to be. It just does everything a car should do to get from point A to B. At $16,000-18,000 for a new one these days, I would not buy one. Rather, I would add a few more thousand for something else. But for a well-maintained used Mirage with low mileage under $10,000, it would make a reliable daily driver. In conclusion, as of March 2024, after almost 6 1/2 years, I would recommend this vehicle with the above qualifications to anyone who is looking for a basic, solid all-around vehicle. I'm going to drive it until it falls apart or isn't worth fixing. As a mechanic friend once said,
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Vehicle year: 2021
This car is perfect for those who value fuel efficiency and a modern yet traditional style. It is practical, reliable, and has excellent mpg. In my opinion, this car is really fun! The engine noise is like music to my ears, and while the acceleration may not be the best, revving up the vehicle in most driving situations is exciting. The car is like a big bubble inside, providing a large view of the surroundings. As a self-mechanic, I find working on this car a walk in the park due to the ample space inside the engine. Nowadays, people tend to prioritize speed over mpg, but with so much technology in modern cars, worrying about something breaking down can be a real hassle for the wallet or purse. Keeping it simple and real is the way to go! 😎 Update: My car has 12600 miles and has been performing flawlessly, taking me to work and running errands with ease. It is also easy to maintain.
Are you having problems with your Mitsubishi Mirage?
Cicero Williamson 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 1996
My '95 Mirage had some issues that needed to be addressed. The car did not perform well in the rain and the seat covers started to deteriorate after 6 months. Additionally, there was an acceleration problem that could be dangerous. I have spoken to other Mitsubishi owners who have experienced similar issues. It is important to address these problems to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Greg Rogahn 2025-03-24
Vehicle year: 1995
My '95 Mirage had some issues that needed to be addressed. The car did not perform well in the rain and the seat covers started to deteriorate after 6 months. Additionally, there was an acceleration problem that could be dangerous. I have spoken to other Mitsubishi owners who have experienced similar issues. It is important to address these problems to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Osvaldo Bartell 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 1995
I've been really satisfied with the LS Cpe for three reasons: the exterior design, great reliability, and excellent fuel economy. The car's design reminds me of a softer-looking Impreza RS. My LS came with the stock rear spoiler and the stock alloy rims, which I found really attractive. In terms of reliability, I haven't had any mechanical defects at all - I expect this car to last for a long time, even though it's nearly 10 years old. Finally, the fuel economy is excellent - I always average about 28-33 mpg per month. If you're looking for a car that gets you from A to B with a hint of style, the Mirage is definitely worth considering.
Vernon Reynolds 2025-03-19
Vehicle year: 2000
This car has had some front end problems and required brake replacements, but it is still a reliable vehicle. However, if you are looking for a car with a smoother ride, you may want to consider a Toyota.
Loyal Metz 2025-02-25
Vehicle year: 1991
You'll love the great gas mileage and get up and go power of this vehicle. It's also easy to maneuver in and out of tight spaces. While the sheet metal could have been a little thicker, the engine is both reliable and quiet.