2000 Mitsubishi Mirage
2000 Mitsubishi Mirage
Overview
The 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage, a subcompact car, was generally considered a budget-friendly and relatively reliable option for its era. It offered a straightforward design with a focus on fuel efficiency. While not a performance powerhouse, it served its purpose well for daily commuting and basic transportation. Owners often appreciated its maneuverability in urban environments and its low running costs. However, like many vehicles from this period, certain components could experience wear and tear over time, and specific model years or engine/transmission combinations might have had unique, though not always widespread, reliability concerns.
Engine
1.5L 4G15 SOHC
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
1.8L 4G93 SOHC
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
4-Speed Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Independent Front/Rear
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Standard System
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, difficulty starting, dead battery.
- Solution: Replace alternator.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Power Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Window not moving up or down when switch is activated.
- Solution: Replace power window motor.
- Cost: $150 - $300 per motor
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
Rust/Corrosion
- Symptoms: Visible rust spots, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows, especially in areas with harsh winters.
- Solution: Rust treatment and repair, or panel replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $1500+ depending on severity
Interior
Upholstery and Dash
Dashboard Cracking
- Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure and age.
- Solution: Dashboard cover or replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $500
HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent airflow, regardless of fan speed setting.
- Solution: Replace HVAC blower motor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage is a generally reliable subcompact car, particularly for its powertrain components. The 1.5L and 1.8L engines, along with both manual and automatic transmissions, are known for their durability with proper maintenance. The primary areas where owners might encounter issues are related to the electrical system, such as alternator failures or power window motor problems, and common age-related exterior concerns like rust in certain climates. Interior components like the dashboard can also show signs of wear. Overall, it’s a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation, provided it has been reasonably maintained.