2000 Mitsubishi Mirage

The 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. It came with a 1.5L inline-4 engine producing around 92 horsepower and 93 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate its nimble handling and simple design, while common complaints include the lack of power, basic interior, and susceptibility to rust.

Engine

1.5L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating. The cause can be worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs, ignition coils, and address any vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels. Common leak points include the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Check and top off or replace the transmission fluid. If that doesn’t fix the issue, have the transmission diagnosed by a professional.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2000+ depending on severity of issue
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Hard to shift into gear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty getting the vehicle into gear, especially when cold. Clutch pedal can feel soft and engage close to the floor. Master or slave cylinder failure, or clutch disc delamination, may be to blame.
  • Solution: Replace clutch components including disc, pressure plate, throw out bearing, master and slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, clunking noises, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the broken or worn springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery light on, and eventual complete loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking sound when trying to start the car, no cranking, and the engine not turning over.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the quarter panels, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty rolling windows up or down, windows falling into the door, or grinding noises when operating the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage, while fuel-efficient and affordable, presents owners with a range of potential issues. Engine problems such as misfires and oil leaks are common. Transmission issues can range from simple fluid changes to full rebuilds or replacement. Suspension components are prone to wear, affecting ride quality and handling. Electrical failures, particularly with the alternator and starter, can leave owners stranded. Exterior rust is a significant concern in certain climates, and interior components like window regulators can fail. The severity of these issues varies, but owners should be prepared for potential repair costs ranging from minor fixes to more substantial investments.