2002 Mitsubishi Mirage

The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage is a compact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. Engine options include a 1.5L 4G15 inline-four engine, producing around 92 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Mirage for its simplicity and ease of maintenance. However, common complaints revolve around its limited power and basic features, as well as issues stemming from age and wear.

Engine

1.5L 4G15 Inline-Four

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal due to the age of the rubber components. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle/Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle and misfires can occur due to worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing spark plugs, ignition coils, or vacuum hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failing catalytic converter may cause a check engine light, reduced engine performance, and failed emissions tests.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or delayed engagement, particularly when shifting between gears, can be caused by worn clutch packs, low transmission fluid, or a failing valve body.
  • Solution: Replacing transmission fluid, valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $2000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distance.
  • Solution: Replacing struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Coil springs can break, especially in regions with harsh winters. Symptoms include a clunking noise and uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Control arm and sway bar bushings wear out over time, causing clunking noises, loose steering, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working due to a faulty window regulator.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, resulting in a dead battery, dimming headlights, and eventual stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter motor can fail, preventing the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with road salt. Rust often appears on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles can break, especially with frequent use.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage, while reliable in some aspects, is prone to issues related to age and wear. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems like slipping are common and can lead to moderate repair costs. Suspension components like struts and bushings also need attention. Electrical issues can arise. Rust is a concern, especially in regions with harsh weather. Dashboard cracking and broken interior handles are also typical interior issues. Overall, while the Mirage is an affordable car, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in maintenance and repair costs.