2002 Mitsubishi Mirage
2002 Mitsubishi Mirage
Overview
The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage, a subcompact car, was known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its class and era, like any car, it had certain areas that could experience issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance. The Mirage offered a few engine and transmission choices, and their reliability varied slightly. Understanding these potential weak points can help owners anticipate and address maintenance needs, ensuring the longevity of their vehicle.
Engine
1.6L 4G92 SOHC
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
1.8L 4G93 DOHC
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
Slipping or Delayed Shifting
- Symptoms: Transmission may hesitate to engage gears, slip between gears, or exhibit rough shifting. Low transmission fluid level or internal wear can be causes.
- Solution: Check and top up transmission fluid. If fluid is low, check for leaks. Internal transmission repair or replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $300 - $1500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends. Alignment is recommended after replacement.
- Cost: $250 - $600
Worn Struts/Shocks
- Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, visible leaks from the strut/shock housing.
- Solution: Replacement of worn struts or shocks. Alignment may be recommended.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Electrical
General Electrical System
Faulty Alternator
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting the engine, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Power Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window operation, grinding noises when operating windows.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor or regulator assembly.
- Cost: $150 - $350 per window
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin Components
HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from the vents, or air only coming from certain vents, regardless of fan speed setting.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage is generally considered a reliable subcompact car, particularly with its manual transmission and smaller engine options. Common issues tend to be related to wear and tear on suspension components like ball joints and tie rods, and occasional electrical problems such as alternator failure or power window malfunctions. The automatic transmission can sometimes develop issues with slipping or rough shifting. Interior components like the HVAC blower motor are also known to fail. Overall, for its age and class, the Mirage offers decent reliability, but owners should be aware of these potential repair areas.