Appealing to city commuters and budget-conscious drivers, the Mitsubishi Mirage tastefully blends comfort and performance in a small, compact car. Although Mitsubishi ceased production of this vehicle model in the U.S. market in 2024, sufficient dealer stock is expected to be available into the summer of 2025, according to a Car and Driver report. Our Boardman Mitsubishi team created this Mitsubishi Mirage reliability and repair costs guide so you can make an informed purchasing decision.
A Comprehensive Analysis of the Mitsubishi Mirage's Reliability
The Mitsubishi Mirage has earned the following vehicle reliability scores:
- In its analysis of the 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage's reliability, U.S. News and World Report ranked it 6.7 out of 10. In contrast, the 2020 model year put the Mitsubishi Mirage eighth in the subcompact car category with a score of 4.6 out of 10.
- RepairPal ranked the Mitsubishi Mirage 4.5 out of 5 for reliability, placing the vehicle seventh out of 21 for subcompact cars.
According to CoPilot.com, the 2000, 2014, and 2015 model years are considered the least reliable Mirage models. Issues such as brake problems and electrical system malfunctions are among the chief concerns reported by Mirage owners.
Other model years of the Mitsubishi Mirage fare exceptionally well for reliability. For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2019 Mitsubishi Mirage a four-star overall safety rating.
Commonly Reported Issues
Drivers have reported the following Mitsubishi Mirage feedback about their vehicles.
Malfunctioning Airbags
In 2019, Consumer Reports noted that Mitsubishi had recalled more than 26,000 of its 2017 to 2018 Mirage G4 vehicles because of a software issue that could disable all the vehicle's airbags. According to the report, an internal acceleration sensor in the supplemental restraint system's electronic control unit could misinterpret vibrations from rough conditions or a flat tire, preventing the airbags from deploying during a crash.
Screeching Brakes
Drivers who own the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage have reported screeching brakes when they step on the brake pedal. A vehicle inspection can indicate whether the brake pads have cracks or need replacing.
No Cold Air From the Air-Conditioning Unit
RepairPal.com notes that issues with the Mitsubishi Mirage's air-conditioning system are often the result of a refrigerant leak, an electrical climate control issue, or a problem with the air-conditioning compressor.
Other common problems associated with the Mitsubishi Mirage have included the following:
- Premature tire and brake wear
- A no-start condition due to a faulty distributor
- A stuck ignition key
- Defective door hinges
- Gear-shifting problems
Recalls and Service Bulletins: What You Should Know
Technical service bulletins contain essential information about features in their vehicle model, plus service and option packages. These bulletins will highlight product changes for the model year, available features in trims within the vehicle model, and essential warranty details.
Visit Mitsubishi's website to check for current open safety recalls or service campaigns for your Mitsubishi vehicle. To confirm the recall information for your vehicle, you'll need to have the 17-character vehicle identification number available.
A Detailed Look at the Mitsubishi Mirage's Repair Costs and Maintenance
If you're looking for cars with low maintenance costs, consider the Mitsubishi Mirage.
RepairPal.com estimates annual repair costs and maintenance for the Mirage at approximately $457, which is lower than the average of $456 for subcompact cars and $652 for all vehicle models. This figure places the Mitsubishi Mirage among cars with a low maintenance cost. CarEdge.com estimates approximately $5,135 for maintenance and repairs during the vehicle's first 10 years of service.
Mitsubishi Mirage Maintenance Schedule Recommendations
You can refer to the following maintenance schedule for servicing a Mitsubishi Mirage with less than 100,000 miles on the odometer:
- 7,500 miles: Replace the cabin air filter, change the oil filter and oil, and rotate the tires (repeat approximately every 7,500 miles).
- 30,000 miles: Flush the cooling system and replace the spark plugs.
- 60,000 miles: Replace the timing belt, water pump, and ignition cable (spark plug wires).
Understanding the True Cost to Own of a Mitsubishi Mirage
CarEdge.com estimates the average cost of owning a 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage for five years at $31,796. This cost varies based on trim level, driving habits, and region. This website also suggests that the Mitsubishi Mirage will hold 43% of its value after five years.
How Warranties Impact Overall Expenses
Mitsubishi offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty to original owners of new, retailed Mitsubishi models purchased from an authorized Mitsubishi dealer. Subsequent vehicle owners receive the balance of Mitsubishi's new vehicle limited warranty of five years/60,000 miles. If your vehicle is covered under this warranty, you could expect to reduce expenses if your Mitsubishi Mirage requires repairs.
Finding Fair Prices for Repairs: Tips and Strategies
Learn some tips and strategies to help you find the best fair prices for auto repairs:
- Read online reviews of auto repair facilities.
- Get recommendations from family, friends, and coworkers.
- Compare estimates from two or more auto repair shops.
- Verify the price for replacement parts. While it's normal for auto repair shops to charge a small markup on parts, you'll want to confirm you're not overpaying for them.
- Ask questions about the services performed and parts replaced so you can verify you're paying for the service work you requested.
Making Your Mitsubishi Mirage Last: Tips on Longevity and Routine Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is essential to maximizing your Mitsubishi Mirage's longevity. Maintenance tasks such as changing the oil, replacing the oil filter, rotating the tires, and checking the vehicle's battery can all help keep your Mirage in peak operating condition and reduce repair costs.
You can also take some additional steps to extend your vehicle's life span:
- Avoid bad driving habits, such as accelerating too fast or breaking too hard.
- Check the tires regularly to maintain the correct amount of air pressure.
- Schedule preventive vehicle maintenance appointments.
- Wash your vehicle frequently to avoid debris buildup from ruining the paint.
Contact Boardman Mitsubishi for More Information
We hope this guide has helped you answer the question, "Is the Mitsubishi Mirage reliable?" If you're looking for a preowned Mitsubishi Mirage, visit our Boardman Mitsubishi dealership today at 883 Boardman Canfield Road in Boardman, Ohio. Call us at 888-891-9049 or send us a message online. Find out why our team is fully committed to serving all your automotive needs and helping you get behind the wheel of your next Mitsubishi vehicle.