2001 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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Common 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage, several common problems have been reported:
- Difficulty with Opening and Closing System: Owners have experienced issues with the opening and closing system of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage. This problem can be frustrating and impact the overall usability and convenience of the vehicle.
- Electrical System Troubles: Complaints have highlighted electrical system troubles in the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage. Electrical issues can range from minor inconveniences to more serious problems affecting the functionality of various components in the car.
- Faults with Braking Construction: Owners have reported faults with the braking construction of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage. Brake issues are critical for safety, and any problems in this area can pose significant risks to the driver and passengers.
These reported problems with the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage can lead to costly repairs, impact the vehicle's mileage, and compromise safety. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of the car.
What is the common problem of Mitsubishi Mirage?
Common Issues With the Mitsubishi Mirage
No start to the failed distributor. Front brake wear troubles. Airbags that do not deploy as expected. Shifting issues with the manual transmission.
Why not to buy Mitsubishi Mirage?
Since its introduction, minor updates and freshenings have brought a sedan body style, a hint more power, better infotainment, and upgraded brakes. Yet those enhancements don't mask the weak, vibrating three-cylinder engine that delivers sluggish acceleration, or the car's clumsy handling.
Is the Mitsubishi Mirage engine reliable?
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.
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.
2001 Mitsubishi Mirage car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Mirage problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
- Structure problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage
The NHTSA has received 34 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage vehicles.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-13
- 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.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-01
- VIN: JA3AY11A31U
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO REIMBURSE FOR REPAIRS RELATED TO STEERING, RATTLING AND RE-TORQUE OF WHEELS DUE TO SUSPENSION WORK.*TGW
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JA3AY36C21U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE APPX 105,000 MILES. PURCHASED MAY 2007. VEHICLE'S FUSE BOX CAUGHT FIRE AND CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TOTALING THE CAR. NO PRIOR MECHANICAL PROBLEMS BEFORE THE EVENT OCCURRED. AFTER RUNNING ERRANDS I PULLED INTO MY APARTMENT COMPLEX'S PARKING LOT AND THE CAR SUDDENLY DIED. I TRIED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE DID NOT EVEN TURN. I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND I GOT OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND I SAW SMALL FLAMES COMING FROM THE FUSE BOX ON THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. I CALLED 911 IMMEDIATELY AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE FIRE DESTROYED AND COMPLETELY MELTED THE FUSE BOX AND BATTERY AND DAMAGED THE COOLING SYSTEM. I FILED A CLAIM WITH MY INSURANCE COMPANY AND MONDAY 12/14/2009 THE DAMAGE APPRAISER CAME AND EXAMINED THE DAMAGE AND TOTALED THE CAR. I HAVE HAD NO PRIOR MECHANICAL PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR AND THERE WERE NO INDICATES THAT THE CAR WAS MALFUNCTIONING. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-28
- VIN: JA3AY36CX1U
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE VALUES ON THREE OF MY TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE. I HAD TWO OF THE TIRES REPAIRED (DRIVER'S FRONT AND REAR) AND REPLACED THE ONE OF THE TIRES (PASSENGERS REAR). THE REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENT OCCURRED OVER A TWO-WEEK PERIOD. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-30
- VIN: JA3AY11A21U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: POOR MANUFACTURING LEADING TO EVENTUAL OPERATIONAL FAILURE. THE HOOD HINGE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE HAS SEIZED UP. THIS HAS PLACED A GREAT AMOUNT OF STRESS UPON THE TINY BRACKET ATTACHED TO THE HOOD; CAUSING IT TO BEND AND STRUCTURALLY FAIL. A SIMILAR PROBLEM IS NOW BEGINNING TO PROPAGATE OVER TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE HINGE AND BRACKET. THIS MAKES OPENING AND CLOSING THE HOOD EXTREMELY DIFFICULT, ALONG WITH THE HOOD NOT PROPERLY CLOSING. ALSO, THE TOP HINGE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR HAS ALSO SEIZED UP PLACING A SEVERE AMOUNT OF STRESS ON THE ATTACHED BRACKET AND BOTTOM HINGE. THE AMOUNT OF STRESS CAUSED BY THE SEIZED HINGE HAS FORCED THE BRACKET THROUGH THE DOOR; PIERCING THE METAL. THIS PROBLEM HAS ALSO CAUSED MISALIGNMENT WITH THE DOOR, RESULTING IN IT NOT CLOSING/SEALING PROPERLY AS WELL AS RUBBING AGAINST THE FRONT RIGHT QUARTER PANEL. THE COST OF THE DAMAGES WILL RESULT IN APPROX $700.00 IN REPAIRS FOR A VEHICLE A BIT OVER 6 YEARS OF AGE. CURRENTLY NOTHING WAS DONE TO CORRECT THE DAMAGES. WE SPOKE WITH A DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE WHO WAS RUDE AND PRETTY MUCH TRIED TO DEFLECT QUESTIONS WITH NO CLEAR ANSWERS IN AN ATTEMPT TO FRUSTRATE US AND MAKE US STOP BOTHERING HIM. WE ARE CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF APPEALING TO THE CORPORATE OFFICE TO SEE WHAT CAN BE DONE REGARDING THIS OBVIOUS (AS SHOWN ON THIS SITES MANY CONSUMER COMMENTS) MANUFACTURING FLAW. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-01
- VIN: JA3AY26CX1U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HORN IS NOT WORKING. HE HAD TO PULL THE FUSE FROM THE ENGINE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT IF HE PRESSED THE HORN TOO HARD, IT COULD DAMAGE THE MECHANISM. IN ORDER TO HAVE THE DEFECT REPAIRED, THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE BOTH THE HORN AND THE AIR BAG MECHANISM. THE REPAIR WOULD COST $700. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 144,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000. UPDATED 12/12/07
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-20
- VIN: JA3AY26C41U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I PUNCHED OUT FROM MY JOB AND GOT INTO MY CAR. I DROVE APPROXIMATELY 8 MINUTES AWAY.I WAS IN MY CAR WAITING FOR THE TRAFFIC LIGHT TO CHANGE TO GREEN. THERE WERE ABOUT 4 OR 5 CARS AHEAD OF ME.I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE WHEN MY CAR TOOK OFF LIKE A RACE CAR (VERY FAST).I APPLIED MY BRAKE AND IT FELT AS THOUGH IT DIDN'T WANT TO HOLD.I THEN APPLIED BOTH FEET TO THE BRAKE PEDAL IN AN ALMOST STANDING UP POSITION TRYING TO GET THE VEHICLE TO STOP.IT EVENTUALLY STOPPED. THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED EITHER ON DECEMBER 20TH OR DECEMBER 21ST. THE REASON I DIDN'T GIVE A DEFINITIVE DATE IS THAT MY RECEIPT IS IN MY CAR. THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED TO ME IN MY LIFE, IT HAPPENED AT AN INOPPORTUNE TIME BECAUSE I WOULD HAVE RECEIVED OVER TIME THAT WEEK; BUT DUE TO MY CAR NOT BEING FINISHED (FIXED) UNTIL 4:00 P.M. I LOST A DAY OF WORK. VERY NEXT MORNING I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO FIRESTONE ON ELVIS PRESLEY BLVD. I EXPLAINED WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MANAGER AND HE SAID TO ME "MAAM WE DON'T HAVE ANYONE HERE THAT CAN FIX THAT PROBLEM", THE MANAGER THEN SAID THAT HE HAS READ SOMEWHERE WHERE THAT HAS HAPPENED TO SOME VEHICLES. HE SAID THERE MAYBE A RECALL AND THEN ADVISED ME TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. I LEFT HIS SHOP AND WENT TO GOSSETT/MITSUBISHI MOTORS ON COVINGTON PIKE; THIS IS WHERE I PURCHASED MY CAR FROM. I EXPLAINED IT TO THE WOMAN WHO GREETED ME. I TOLD HER WHAT THE MANAGER AT FIRESTONE REVEALED TO ME ABOUT THE RECALL. SHE SAID THAT SHE WILL LOOK INTO THAT. SHE SAID THAT THE CHARGE $105.00 JUST TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE, BUT IT WILL BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE BILL (AS AN OFFSET). AFTER THEY FINISHED LOOKING AT MY CAR SHE SAID THAT THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT CAUSED THAT TO HAPPEN AND THEY DON'T KNOW IF IT WILL OR WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN. THE LADY SAID THAT I DID HAVE A LITTLE CORROSION IN MY FUEL INJECTORS AND THIS MAY BE THE PROBLEM. SHE ALSO SAID THAT I NEED TO HAVE MY TIMING/SERPENTINE BELTS REPLACED. I PAID FOR THE FUEL INJECTORS THERE AND I WENT TO A SECOND FIRESTONE TO HAVE THE 3 BELTS REPLACED. *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-27
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA3AY11A71U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE I WAS PARKING AND WHILE APPLYING LITTLE PRESSURE TO THE GAS PEDAL THE AUTOMOBILE ACCELERATED AND SURGED FORWARD CRASHING TWO OTHER AUTOMOBILES AND A MOTOCYCLE. THIS HAS CAUSED SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC DAMAGES AND AN EMOTIONAL DISTRESS ON ME AND MY FAMILY. *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-01
- VIN: JA3AY26C11U
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY REAR MIDDLE SEAT BELT DID NOT FUNCTION SO WHEN I WENT TO GET MY SAFETY CHECK FROM MITSUBISHI HAWAII THEY CHARGED ME TO REPLACE IT, STATING THEY COULD NOT COMPLETE MY SAFETY CHECK SINCE THE SEAT BELT WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. AT THE TIME OF SERVICE, MY 5 YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED BY ONE WEEK. WHEN I TOOK MY CAR TO ANOTHER SERVICE COMPANY TO GET A TUNE-UP (THAT MITSUBISHI SAID I NEEDED EVEN THOUGH I JUST HAD ONE SIX MONTHS PRIOR), THEY TOLD ME IT WAS ILLEGAL FOR THE DEALER TO CHARGE ME TO REPLACE MY PASSENGER RESTRAINT SYSTEM THAT WAS DEALER ISSUED AND FAULTY. I CALLED MITSUBISHI AND THEY SAID THEY HAD NEVER HEARD OF THIS LAW AND THAT I WAS CHARGED BECAUSE MY WARRANTY EXPIRED BY A WEEK. NO ONE BOTHERED TO CONSIDER IT TOOK TWO WEEKS TO GET AN APPT AND MY WARRANTY WAS IN EFFECT WHEN I REQUESTED THE APPT. THIS CHARGE DOES NOT SEEM FAIR SINCE MY WARRANTY EXPIRED ON FEB 22, 2006 AND THE EARLIEST APPT I COULD GET WAS ON MAR 1, 2006. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-01
- VIN: JA3AY36C71U
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL DID NOT WORK PROPERLY. ALSO, THE SPEEDOMETER DID NOT REGISTER HOW FAST THE VEHICLE WAS GOING, AND THE FUEL GAUGE MALFUNCTIONED, THE CONTACT DIDN'T KNOW HOW MUCH GAS THERE WAS IN THE FURL TANK. IN ADDITION, THE RPMS DID NOT REGISTER. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE IT CHECKED. AND THEY DETERMINED THE VEHICLE HAD A DEFECTIVE MODULE. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE.*AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-24
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: UPON INITIAL PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE IT WAS NOTED THAT EXTENDED USE OF THE CD PLAYER CAUSED THE PLAYER TO OVERHEAT AND SHUT DOWN. THE ORIGINAL PLAYER WAS REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP AND THE REPLACEMENT HAS AN IDENTICAL PROBLEM. THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MALFUNCTION. THE CLUSTER WOULD WORK ON START-UP AND CONTINUE WORKING UNTIL EITHER THE CAR WARMED UP OR THE CAR WAS SHUT DOWN TO REFUEL. THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER STOPPED WORKING AND NO REMEDY HAS BEEN SOUGHT YET.*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-14
- VIN: JA3AY26C71U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: A FEW MONTHS AGO, THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR STARTED BECOMING DIFFICULT TO CLOSE. I THOUGHT AT FIRST THE HINGE NEEDED TO OIL, BUT THAT DID NOT HELP. SOON, THE DOOR WOULD NOT CLOSE AT ALL UNLESS I LIFTED IT UP AND SLAMMED IT. TWICE MY WIFE ALMOST FELL OUT BECAUSE THE DOOR WAS NOT CLOSED ALL THE WAY. TODAY I TOOK THE FENDER OFF TO SEE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS, AND THE BOTTOM HINGE HAS COMPLETELY BUSTED THROUGH THE DOOR! WHEN OPENED, THE DOOR HANGS DOWN TWO TO THREE INCHES BECAUSE THE BOTTOM HINGE IS SHOT. THEN I FIND OUT FROM OTHER COMPLAINTS THAT THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM WITH PREVIOUS YEARS OF THIS MODEL AND WITH THIS ONE ALSO. WHY HASN'T NHTSA FORCED A RECALL ON THOSE PROBLEM? THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE, AND ONE THAT I HAVE DISCUSSED WITH A LAWYER. COULD SOMEONE RESPOND TO ME PLEASE? *NM
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-03
- VIN: JA3AY26C21U
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ON 9/3/03 MY 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE WOULD NOT IDLE AND KEPT CUTTING OUT EVERY TIME YOU CAME TO A STOP. I TOOK IT TO RICK CASE @ 18300 ROCKSIDE ROAD, BEDFORD, OH 44146 BECAUSE THIS IS WHERE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE CAR HAD 30563 MILES. THEY REPLACED THE IDLE SPEED CONTROL MOTOR AND VALVE, FAST IDLE AIR WHICH WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THEN ON 10/6/04 THE SAME EXACT THING HAPPENED TO THE CAR. THIS TIME THE CAR ONLY HAD 46013 MILES. I HAD TO PAY FOR THE SAME EXACT REPAIR WHICH COST ME $520.39 WHICH IS OUTRAGEOUS. THEY SAY IT WAS DIFFERENT BUT WHEN I GOT THE INVOICE BOTH INVOICES HAVE THE SAME PARTS AND SAME DESCRIPTION ON WHAT THEY REPLACED. I HAVE BOTH RECEIPTS. I THINK I WAS RIPPED OFF AND THAT THEY SHOULD HAVE REPLACED IT SINCE IT WAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I BOUGHT A NEW CAR HOPING I COULD AT LEAST GET SEVERAL YEARS WITHOUT HEADACHES BUT THAT'S ALL THIS CAR IS AND I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER MITSUBISHI AND ESPECIALLY FROM RICK CASE IN BEDFORD OHIO. ALSO, ON 6/11/03 I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR FRONT DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS DOOR HINGES TO BE REPLACED AND THE REAR DOOR BELT MOLDING TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE IT WAS COMING OFF. BOTH DOOR HINGES WERE REPLACED BUT THEY KEPT MY CAR FOR 3 DAYS. NOW ITS JULY 2005 AND MY DRIVERS DOOR WON'T SHUT AND THE DOOR LIGHT STAYS ON AND THE DOOR IS OFF ALIGNMENT. THE DOOR HINGE IS GONE AGAIN. I HATE TO TAKE MY CAR IN AGAIN AND BE CHARGED AGAIN AND AGAIN. SHOULDN'T THIS BE COVERED BECAUSE THEY DID THE SAME EXACT WORK IN 2003. *NM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BOTTOM HINGE ON PASSENGER SIDE DOOR IS SEIZED UP. WHEN DOOR IS OPENED , THE PART OF THE DOOR WHERE THE HINGE IS SECURED STARTS TO FLEX. IT LOOKS LIKE THE HINGE IS BREAKING LOOSE FROM THE DOOR. THIS PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED YET.
STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-11
- VIN: JA3AY26C71U
- Components: STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE AIRCONDITIONER COMPRESSOR BLEW A PRESSURE VALVE BECAUSE ONE OF THE VALVES STUCK. THIS CAR IS A 2001 MISTUBISHI MIRAGE IS ONLY 4 YEARS OLD WITH 67,000 MILES ON IT, AND THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ONLY USED FOR HALF THE YEAR AS I LIVE IN THE MIDWEST. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT IT WILL COST BETWEEN $1,200 AND $1,600 DOLLARS, WHICH IS ABOUT HALF OF THE TRADE-IN VALUE. I CALLED MITSUBISHI AND THEY TOLD ME THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO ABOUT IT BECAUSE IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. I HAVE A FEELING I AM NOT THE ONLY CUSTOMER WHO HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM.*AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-15
- VIN: JA3AY26C71U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVER'S' DOOR HINGE FAILURE - DOOR FALLING OFF VEHICLE. NO ACCIDENT OCCURRED, JUST STARTED HAPPENING. MITSUBISHI DENIES A PROBLEM, DEALER WILL FIX FOR 600 +. THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED - I FOUND MORE THAN 5 DOZEN COMPLAINTS REGARDING THIS ISSUE IN THE 1998, 1999, 2000 MIRAGE VEHICLES. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-14
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I PURCHASED A NEW MIRAGE FROM A DEALER IN 2001. I MIGHT HAVE HAD ABOUT 53,000 MILES ON THE CAR WHEN I STARTED HAVING BRAKE PROBLEMS. I DECIDED TO LOOK INTO IT AFTER I HAD MY FIRST ACCIDENT, IN WHICH I ENDED UP REAR ENDING SOMEONE. I GOT NEW TIRES AND HAD THE DAMAGE REPAIRED. ABOUT A MONTH LATER, I HAD ANOTHER ACCIDENT RESULTING IN REAR ENDING SOMEONE. THE CAR WAS MAKING FUNNY NOISES WHEN I STOPPED. I TOOK THE CAR TO A MECHANIC WHO SAID MY BRAKE PADS WERE WORN COMPLETELY THROUGH, AS A RESULT OF MY CALIPERS FAILING TO RELEASE, WHICH ALSO WORE MY ROTORS OUR. IN ADDITION, HE SAID THE WRONG SIZE CALIPERS WERE ON THE CAR (THEY WERE THE ORIGINAL SET). I WAS SHOCKED. IT WAS RECOMMENDED THAT I DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR ANOTHER MILE BEFORE GETTING NEW PADS, ROTORS, AND CALIPERS. I WAS FURIOUS--I COULDN'T AFFORD THE ENTIRE JOB, SO I HAD THE BRAKE PADS REPLACED AND IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE CAR TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER FOR A SECOND OPINION. THEY SAID MY CALIPERS WERE FINE AND MY ROTORS JUST NEEDED TO BE SHAVED. ABOUT A MONTH LATER, I REAR ENDED SOMEONE ELSE. I TOOK MY CAR BACK TO A DEALER AND HAD THE BRAKES INSPECTED. THEY SAID THEY LOOK FINE. I'VE BEEN DRIVING FOR 7 YEARS WITH NO PRIOR ACCIDENTS, THEN I GET 3 IN A ROW. MY INSURANCE IS THROUGH THE ROOF. I DRIVE EXTRA SLOW WITH PLENTY OF SPACE BETWEEN ME AND THE NEXT CAR. I DON'T KNOW WHEN MY BRAKES WILL WORK PROPERLY AND THEY KEEP TELLING ME THEY ARE FINE. TODAY, I TOOK MY CAR INTO THE DEALER FOR A BRAKE INSPECTION--THE NOISE AND VIBRATION IS VERY NOTICEABLE--AND GUESS WHAT THEY SAID--YOUR BRAKES ARE FINE. I DON'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO OR WHO CAN HELP ME. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-09
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN TURNING STEERING WHEEL TOWARDS THE RIGHT IT LOCKED, CAUSING A REAR END COLLISION. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-01
- VIN: JA3AY26CX1U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PAINT RUBS OFF THE CAR IN FOUR AREAS (FRONT-UNDER THE HOOD, BACK-BY THE LICENSE PLATE, AND RUNNING BOARD AREA UNDER THE DOORS FROM FRONT TO BACK OF CAR, BOTH SIDES) WHEN WASHING. *NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-01
- VIN: JA3AY26CX1U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION KEY DOES NOT ALWAYS TURN TO START THE ENGINE. LOCKS UP COMPLETELY, CANNOT START THE CAR. CHANGING KEYS DOES NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE. *NLM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-11
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA3AY26C11U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE INVOLVED IN HEAD-ON COLLISION WITH 1994 FORD EXPLORER. BOTH VEHICLES ESTIMATED TO BE TRAVELING 35 MILES PER HOUR. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN 2001 MITSUBISHI. VEHICLE IS A TOTAL LOSS. ADJUSTERS FOR BOTH INSURANCE COMPANIES INVOLVED COMMENTED THAT THEY WERE SURPRISED THAT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. CONTACTED MITSUBISHI BECAUSE OF MY CONCERN THAT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. ASKED IF THEY COULD HAVE REPRESENTATIVE INSPECT VEHICLE. THEIR RESPONSE WAS THAT THERE WAS PROBABLY TOO LITTLE IMPACT TO DEPLOY AIR BAGS. WHEN I EXPLAINED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS THEY SAID I COULD DO WHATEVER I WANTED AT MY OWN EXPENSE AND THEY WOULD SEND ME A BROCHURE ON AIR BAGS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-22
- VIN: JA3AY11A71U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: COMPLAINT TYPE INVOLVES A PAINT DEFECT. I PURCHASED A NEW 2001 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE FROM PATRIOT FORD - MITSUBISHI IN BECKLEY, WV. I BOUGHT IT IN DECEMBER 2000. THE FOURTH DAY I HAD THE CAR I BRUSHED SNOW OF THE HOOD AND PAINT CAME OFF WITH IT. FOR THE NEXT FIVE MONTHS PAINT CAME OFF MOSTLY WHEN IT WAS WASHED. THE DEALERSHIP OFFERED TO PAY FOR PAINTING ONLY PART OF THE CAR. THIS WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE. THE DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO PAY FOR A TOTAL PAINT JOB ALTHOUGH I DON'T KNOW WHY A BRAND NEW CAR SHOULD NEED ANY PART OF IT PAINTED BUT I COUNTINUED TO GET THE RUN AROUND FOR ANOTHER FOUR MONTHS AT WHICH A LONG AWAITED MITSUBISHI REPRESENTED INSECTED THE CAR AND OFFERED TO PAY 30% OF A TOTAL PAINT JOB. I REFUSED STILL NOT BEING ABLE TO UNDERSTAND WHY A NEW CAR WOULD NEED A PAINT JOB. I TOOK IT TO AUTO BODY SHOPS IN THE AREA AND WAS TOLD A FEW TIMES IT WAS ROAD DEBRIE CAUSING THE PAINT TO FLAKE OFF. THE SHOPS TOLD ME THEY WORKED WITH PATRIOT FORD. I HAD A LAWYER FOR A PERIOD OF TIME WHO COULD NOT MAKE ANY HEADWAY WITH THE MITUSUBISHI MANUFACTURER. AFTER MUCH FRUSTRATION I FANALLY DROPPED THE MATTER BUT HAVE RECENTLY DECIDED TO CONTINUE THE FIGHT. ANY HELP YOU CAN GIVE ME WITH THE MATTER WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JA3AY11A51U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AND NO WARNING THE TRANSMISSION WILL SLIP GEARS CAUSING A DISTRACTION TO THE CONSUMER. DEALER NOTIFIED. TS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA3AY26C31U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE BRAKING THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT. THE DEALER HAS REPLACED THE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS SEVERAL TIMES. A PIECE OF THE AXLE HAS PUNCTURED THE TIRES CAUSING BLOWOUTS AND FLAT TIRES ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. *MR *NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-01
- VIN: JA3AY11A31U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE WILL HESITATE AND SURGE FORWARD UNEXPECTEDLY.*AK
2001 Mitsubishi Mirage recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN WILL MAIL A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION LETTER CONTAINING A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION AND A GRAPHIC OF THE BI-LINGUAL DASHBOARD AIR BAG WARNING LABEL. IN ADDITION, ALL CURRENT 2000-2004 NATIVA OWNERS WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG ALERT LABELS FOR THE SUN VISORS. THIS RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH OR APRIL 2005. THE NOTIFICATION TO THE NATIVA OWNERS IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL OR MAY 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BOLT SECURING THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY CAN BECOME LOOSE AND THE PULLEY COULD FALL OFF THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: THE CONDITION CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES TO INSURE THAT THE BOLT IS TIGHTENED. FOR THOSE BOLTS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED, THE BOLT AND PULLEY WILL BE REMOVED AND INSPECTED FOR ANY INDICATION OF DAMAGE. COMPONENTS SHOWING ANY SIGNS OF DAMAGE WILL BE REPLACED AND THE BOLT TIGHTENED TO THE PROPER TORQUE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 26, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AMERICA AT 1-888-648-7820.
Negative 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
Positive 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
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This car is truly amazing! I bought it used in 2011 and, just three days later, a 5000 pound tree fell on the hood during a wind storm. After chopping up the tree, the car ran as if nothing had happened. I have a job that requires a lot of driving, but this car has been able to handle all the miles I've put on it without any issues. I recently swapped out the timing belt after 100K miles just to be safe, but the car gave no indication that it needed it. I highly recommend the 4-door model as it is small and incredibly fuel-efficient. Even with a 10-year-old automatic setup, I get an average of 30-35MPG, which is beyond impressive. While the pickup may not be the fastest, it can easily maintain 90MPH on the highway without any issues. I couldn't help but smile when I overtook a new Challenger on the interstate!
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I'm so happy to share my experience with this amazing vehicle! For the past 6 years, it has been my reliable companion, requiring only routine tune-ups and oil changes. As someone who drives up to 450 miles a month for work, I needed a car that was both safe and fuel-efficient, and this car has exceeded my expectations in both regards. It handles like a dream, but I must warn you - it's also quite fast! As a self-proclaimed speed demon, I've received a few speeding tickets along the way. Despite this, I have no plans to trade in my car anytime soon. Even if I purchase another vehicle in the future, I'll be sure to keep this one for work. Thanks for letting me share my story!
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This is such a great commuter car! I'm so glad I bought it to travel over 40 miles (one way) to work. It's been incredibly reliable with no mechanical issues at all, even with almost 90,000 miles on the odometer. I got it at a fantastic price from Hertz Car Sales and it's been such a great value for the reliability and comfort it provides. The fuel economy is also really impressive, averaging between 30-36 mpg on the highway and high 20's in stop and go driving. While the paint does chip easily, especially on the hood, and the dashboard is a bit funky with no tachometer and cupholders that can cause puddles below the storage cubby, it's still a great car. Plus, it's really easy to access the engine for do-it-yourselfers! Overall, I think this car is an excellent buy that's often overlooked due to the popularity of Honda and Toyota models.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share that I bought my Mirage back in July of 2007 and it's a 2001 model. I absolutely love this little car, especially since gas prices are so high these days. At $3.75 per gallon, I can drive 300 miles on just $37, even when I'm speeding most of the time! The only downside is that my car doesn't have any cup holders, auto locks or windows, or cruise control. But other than that, it's a great car!
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I love my car! It's so reliable and fuel efficient, not to mention how cute it is. I've had it for 3 years and it's never given me any trouble. It's already at 80,000 miles and still runs like a champ. I originally wanted a Honda and was skeptical about Mitsubishi, but my Mirage has proven to be just as good as any Honda.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage problems:
2001 Mitsubishi Mirage Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage Problems · No start to to failed distributor. 27 people have reported this. 6 · Airbags may not deploy as expected. 9 people have ...
Q&A: 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage - Common Problems, Battery ...
Jan 3, 2013 ... Verify the cable is tight at the alternator and connector securely locked in for the small harness. If everything looks good drive the car to ...
Is a 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage with 112k miles is a good first car : r ...
Aug 22, 2022 ... Use this website to research common problems on the vehicle: https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mitsubishi/Mirage/2001/. If you have the VIN use ...
Mitsubishi Mirage 2000 Coupe: Q&A on Common Problems ...
Apr 22, 2009 ... I have a mitsubishi mirage 2000 1.5L coupe. My problem is that when i accelerate my engine feels like it is bogging out - Answered by a ...
2001 Mitsubishi Mirage | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
Very reliable, very few problems. I would definitely buy another. This car has been great, very reliable. I have had the average issues, battery, tires. I keep ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Mirage
Are you having problems with your 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage?
Angelo Hill 2024-10-20
The best thing about this car is how little fuel it uses. I haven't had any major mechanical problems with my car, just some wear and tear issues. Overall, I really love the car! Although, I do wish it had a bit more horsepower (only 91hp).
Faustino Hoppe 2024-03-24
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my Mirage that I purchased seven months ago. While the interior layout is nice, it is quite small and can only comfortably fit one passenger. However, I wanted to let you know that the car may not be the fastest on the market. Just wanted to give you a heads up!