2018 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 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage problems
The Mitsubishi Mirage, a subcompact car, is known for its impressive fuel economy and safety features, making it one of the most reliable vehicles in its class. However, like any car, it is not without its common problems.
One of the most frequently reported issues with the Mitsubishi Mirage is malfunctioning airbags. This can be a serious safety concern, as properly functioning airbags are crucial in the event of a collision. It is essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the safety of the vehicle's occupants.
Another common problem with the Mirage is screeching brakes. This can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out brake pads or a malfunctioning brake system. It is crucial to diagnose and fix this issue to prevent further damage to the brake system and ensure the vehicle's safety.
Failing A/C units are also a common problem with the Mitsubishi Mirage. This can be an inconvenience, especially during hot weather, and can affect the overall comfort of the vehicle. It is essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the vehicle's occupants' comfort and prevent further damage to the A/C system.
Premature brake and tire wear are also common problems with the Mirage. This can be caused by various factors, such as aggressive driving or improper maintenance. It is essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the vehicle's safety and prevent further damage to the brake and tire system.
Some manual transmission 1996-1998 Mitsubishi Mirages have experienced shifting problems, with owners reporting a lack of clutch power when shifting in first and second gear. This problem is typically caused by binding between the synchronizer and gear surface and can be corrected by adding a special friction modifier to the manual transmission fluid.
In summary, the Mitsubishi Mirage is a reliable subcompact car with common problems such as malfunctioning airbags, screeching brakes, failing A/C units, and premature brake and tire wear. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's safety and prevent further damage to the affected systems.
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.
What is the weakness of Mitsubishi Mirage?
However, the weak, vibrating, and incredibly noisy three-cylinder engine provides sluggish acceleration, handling is clumsy, and the cabin is depressingly low-rent. Further lowering its standing is its poor score in the IIHS small-overlap crash test. The Mirage began as a small car with a jumpy, uncomfortable ride.
Is the Mitsubishi Mirage reliable?
The Mitsubishi Mirage Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 21 for subcompact cars.
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.
2018 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:
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Mitsubishi Mirage complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- 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.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-01
- VIN: ML32F3FJ9JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REDUCING SPEED AND ABRUPTLY ADJUSTING THE STEERING WHEEL THE VEHICLE REGAINED NORMAL OPERATION. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-12
- VIN: ML32A5HJ4JH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE SRS SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON AND I HAVE NOTICED A LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SIMILAR ISSUE. I MAKE SURE THE VEHICLE IS MAINTAINED PROPERLY AND TAKEN TO THE SHOP WHEN NEED BE. WHEN THE SRS SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON, I HAD JUST STARTED MY CAR AND THE LIGHT REFUSED TO TURN OFF.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-04
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32A3HJ7JH
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN HAVING TO BRAKE WITH ANY SUDDENNESS AT ALL, I MET TWO EXTREMES. THEY EITHER ENGAGED SO ABRUPTLY EVERYTHING WAS THROWN FORWARD, OR THEY FAILED TO ENGAGE ENOUGH. SUDDEN- I DESCRIBE THIS TYPE OF BRAKING AS WHEN BEING CUT IN FRONT OF. THE NECESSITY TO BRAKE IN THIS MANNER WOULD THROW MY DOGS AND BELONGINGS INTO THE FLOOR. IT HAPPENED FREQUENTLY ENOUGH TO MAKE AN IMPRESSION. IT SEEMED IRREGULAR TO ME. EXTREME- #1: I ENCOUNTERED A PILE-UP OF TRAFFIC UNEXPECTEDLY AND OUTSIDE OF THE USUAL SLOWING AREAS FOR THE HIGHWAY. I HAD TO SLAM ON MY BRAKES. THE CAR DID NOT SLOW SUFFICIENTLY. THE DOGS WERE NOT THROWN TO THE FLOOR. I AVOIDED COLLISION BY MOVING TO ANOTHER LANE. A TERRIFYING MOMENT, BUT THE BRAKES RESUMED NORMAL FUNCTIONS UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. #2- AS I DROVE AROUND A MOUNTAINOUS BEND AND NEGOTIATED SOME TRAFFIC, I WAS FACED WITH A CAR AT A FULL STOP AT A PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALK A SHORT DISTANCE AHEAD OF ME. I SLAMMED MY BRAKES. THE CAR DIDN'T SLOW ENOUGH. NOTHING WAS THROWN FORWARD UNTIL THE COLLISION. AS MY FOOT WAS FULLY PRESSING DOWN ON THEM, I QUESTION IF THE BRAKES MALFUNCTIONED UNDER EXTREME BRAKING AGAIN. NORMAL- (2000 MILES ON THE CAR)I APPROACHED A STOPLIGHT AT THE END OF A STEEP ROAD. THE BRAKES MADE A GRINDING SOUND AND A MECHANICAL POP-LIKE SOUND. I LET OFF OF THEM THEN REAPPLIED SLOWLY SEVERAL TIMES UNTIL THE CAR STOPPED. THE SOUND REPEATED EVERY TIME I BRAKED. IT SOUNDED AS IF I CONTINUED TO BRAKE, THEY WOULD BREAK. THE NOISES DISSIPATED AFTER I CONTINUED. I REPORTED IT AT MY FIRST OIL CHANGE. HE SAID THEY WERE FINE. ON REVIEW AT THE SALVAGE LOT, THE BRAKES APPEAR NORMAL YET REMARKABLY SHINY AND UNUSED FOR 14,500 MILES. OTHER: THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY THOUGH THE CAR TOTALED. THE DISPLAY WAS OFTEN IN FRENCH THOUGH ENGLISH WAS SELECTED. I DO NOT KNOW IF THE BRAKES ARE IN ANY WAY RUN BY THE COMPUTERIZED PART OF THE CAR SO I ADD THIS DETAIL.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-23
- VIN: ML32A3HJ4JH
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE BRIGHTLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WAY TO ADJUST THE DISTANCE OF THE LIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO EDD KIRBY'S ADVENTURE MITSUBISHI(400 W M. L. K. BLVD, CHATTANOOGA, TN 374402, (706) 278-1122) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL; THEREFORE, THEY COULD NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 17,000. *JB
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-25
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G1145SL5E9
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A STOP, AND ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A TURN, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO A RAILROAD TRACK WITHOUT WARNING. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED AND WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT LATER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V686000 (19V330000) (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED AT 888-648-7820 AND NO ONE ANSWERED THE PHONE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,502. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-29
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: THIS CAR AT 20,000 MILES HAS HAD 2 SETS OF NEW TIRES SINCE NEW REPEATETED TRIPS TO SELLING DEALER FINALLY DEALER SAID THEY ALIGNED CAR 250FOR NEW FRONT TIRES AT WALMART 5000 MILES TIRE WORN TO HAVING A SOLITARY STRIP OF TREAD IN MIDDLE OF FRONT TIRES DESPITE BEING RTATED AND BALANCED 2 TIMES DEALER SAYS THIS MODEL KNOWN FOR EATING TIRES AND BRAKES REALLY EVERY 5-6000 MILES
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-31
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: ML32A3HJ5HH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND IT FLIPPED OVER THREE TIMES. THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS PRESENT AND A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER AND A PASSENGER WERE INJURED, TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE, TREATED, AND RELEASED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MOUNTAINEER AUTOMOTIVE (615 N EISENHOWER DRIVE, BUCKLEY, WV, 25801) TO BE REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V686000 (AIR BAGS) THREE WEEKS PRIOR TO THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER AFTERWARDS FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-05
- VIN: ML32A3HJ7JH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND THE ENGINE REVVED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SCHUMACHER MITSUBISHI (4047 OKEECHOBEE BLVD, #200, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33409, 561-935-4302) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PERFORMING AS DESIGNED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8.
2018 Mitsubishi Mirage recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage.
- 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.
Negative 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
Positive 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage car reviews
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I have been working on cars since 1968, starting with bodywork and later owning and running a repair shop. Over the course of my career, I built nearly 200 salvage vehicles before retiring in 1999. At age 67, I am proud to say that I have been debt-free for 21 years now. My wife and I can afford to buy more expensive cars, but I chose the Mirage after researching its MPG capabilities and finding that many drivers were able to reach 60 mpg in this car. The rear seat legroom is ample for my elderly parents (96 and 92) to ride comfortably up to 50 miles each way without any issues, even with my 6-foot frame in the driver's seat moved all the way back. I have driven almost every car imaginable, including DeTomaso Panteras, Ferraris, and Jag XKEs, but the Mirage is a capable car in its own right. After fixing the rear axle alignment issue, the car handles well and can handle cloverleafs with ease, even with stock suspension components. I have no intention of selling my Mirage, and I even bought another car to keep the miles down so that it will be under warranty for the full 10 years. I still feel the same way about the Mirage as I did when I first posted this review.
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The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is an excellent car for its class and offers great value for your money. With 78 horsepower, it may seem underpowered, but it's more than enough for everyday driving needs such as commuting, running errands, and cruising around town. Additionally, the Mirage is one of the lightest cars in its class, which makes it a joy to drive at higher speeds. The interior is perfectly acceptable, and if you want to add more comfort, there are plenty of independent vendors that offer wonderful seat covers. The only minor drawback is that the hatchback window is a bit small, which can make it a bit Mirror-Reliant. However, the car has one of the tightest turning radiuses in its class, which makes it easy to maneuver through tight spaces. Overall, I absolutely love this car! It's cute and has a unique personality that sets it apart from other cars in its class.
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Congratulations on your new 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage GT! It's great to hear that you are enjoying your purchase and that it meets all your requirements. The car sounds amazing with its stylish rims, push button start, review camera, heated seats and Apple/Bluetooth sound system. The Cooper Orange color is also a great choice! It's impressive that you were able to get all these features for less than $18k and the excellent warranty is definitely a plus. Thank you for recommending the Mitsubishi Mirage GT to anyone looking for a small, reliable, and affordable car with great features.
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This is great for fuel economy! You can get up to 50mpg doing 70-75 on a highway, and 35-38mpg driving around town.
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I just read a review of the 2017 Mirage on MSN and I am perplexed! The reviewer basically ended his scathing review of this car by saying owners would not take care of it because they won't love it. What?! Are you kidding? Did he bother reading CONSUMER reviews of this car? Probably not. I don't know what it is about the Mirage that reviewers hate so much, but I couldn't disagree with them more. Over a year ago, I wrote my first ever review shortly after purchasing a 2015 Mirage. My review was titled Yes, there is still cabin and engine noise, but it doesn't bother me because I'm usually playing the radio or a CD. It's still lightweight, but I swear this baby rides smoother and feels bigger! Yesterday, after scraping off the dealer decals, I couldn't wait to take that Pearl White beauty to the car wash to clean her up and show her off. I absolutely love this car! And if you decide to buy this reliable piece of transportation that gets great gas mileage and also has some pretty great options for an awesome price, I'm sure you'll love it too! Keep ignoring the haters!
Other years of Mitsubishi Mirage
Are you having problems with your 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?
Jarrod Haley 2024-10-15
Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. While it may not have the most horsepower, I've actually found it to be a great investment. In fact, it's saved me a lot of money on fuel costs over the past year!
Rudolph Beatty 2024-10-08
The Mitsubishi Mirage is the perfect car for me. It has all the necessary features such as a radio, CD player, heat and a/c. Winter driving used to scare me, but with the Mirage, I am confident that I can handle any weather condition. Although some may find it amusing that a riding lawnmower has more horsepower, I am not concerned as the Mirage is the best car for the money I have to spend. I will update after a snow drive to showcase its capabilities. Thank you for your time.
Jasen Nolan 2024-09-29
I rented this car for two weeks and unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations. The car felt unstable and required extra attention when going around curves. Additionally, it struggled on uphill drives and was not ideal for long distance trips. Overall, I believe there is room for improvement in the driving experience of this car.
Gonzalo Bogisich 2024-08-12
This cute little car would be perfect for the circus! Although it may look small on the outside, it's surprisingly spacious inside. However, it may not be the best option for highway driving, especially if you're considering it for your daughter. The acceleration is quite slow due to its 3-cylinder engine, which sacrifices power for better gas mileage. Overall, it's a charming car with some limitations to keep in mind.
Austin Schiller 2024-08-11
I want to start by saying that I purchased this car used, and unfortunately, I have experienced a number of issues with it. The radiator cap wouldn't stay tight, which led to thermostat issues. Additionally, the suspension is now damaged, the motor has a tic, and it started blowing smoke yesterday. It throws VVT codes, and there are also electrical issues, such as the windows rolling down on their own. I didn't have high expectations for the car, but I hoped it wouldn't be this problematic. I have taken good care of it, including a full fluid change when I bought it, and always changing the oil and filter early. I even ran injector cleaner through it. However, the cost of repairs in the last 11k miles has been significant, and I could have just bought a different car for the same amount. Unfortunately, the gas mileage is not worth the trouble.