1997 Mitsubishi Mirage
1997 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 1997 Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact car available as a 3-door hatchback or 4-door sedan. The Mirage came with a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine that produces 82 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The Mirage was praised for its fuel efficiency and affordability but was criticized for its lack of power and features.
Engine
1.5L Inline-4
Timing Belt Tensioner Failure Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner can fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms can include an unusual noise from the engine, a loss of power, or the engine failing to start. Solution: The timing belt tensioner must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Intake Manifold Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket may develop a leak, which can cause a loss of power or fuel efficiency. Symptoms may also include a rough idle or stalling engine. Solution: The intake manifold gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Slipping Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip, causing a loss of power or acceleration. This issue can be caused by worn clutch plates or other internal transmission components. Symptoms can include difficulty shifting gears or a delayed response when shifting. Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
5-Speed Manual
Clutch Failure Description/Symptoms: The clutch may fail, causing difficulty shifting gears or a loss of power. Symptoms can include a grinding noise when shifting, a slipping clutch, or the inability to engage gears. Solution: The clutch must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Suspension
No Issues Found
Electrical
No Issues Found
Exterior
No Issues Found
Interior
Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: The dashboard may develop cracks over time, particularly in hot climates. This is a cosmetic issue only and does not affect the functionality of the vehicle. Solution: The dashboard can be replaced or repaired by an auto body shop. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Window Regulator Failure Description/Symptoms: The window regulator may fail, causing the window to become stuck or difficult to operate. Symptoms can include a rattling noise, a slow or unresponsive window, or the window falling out of its track. Solution: The window regulator must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
Summary
Overall, the 1997 Mitsubishi Mirage is a reliable and affordable vehicle that has some common issues that can be expensive to fix. The most severe issues are related to the engine and transmission, which can result in catastrophic engine damage or transmission failure. The interior and exterior issues are generally cosmetic and do not affect the functionality of the vehicle.