2002 Mitsubishi Mirage

Introduction

The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact sedan or hatchback powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 92 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission and an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. The Mirage is praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability. However, it is criticized for its lack of power, cramped interior, and poor handling.

Engine

• 1.5-Liter 4-Cylinder
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning smell and reduced oil levels.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Crack
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust fumes entering the cabin, reduced engine power, and a loud ticking noise.
    • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and clutch pedal vibrating.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or shifting erratically, check engine light illuminated.
    • Solution: Replace the solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts Worn
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise while driving over bumps, reduced handling capability.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, electrical components failing.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start, clicking noise during starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the tail light assembly, causing condensation or burnt-out bulbs.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, doors randomly locking or unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not rolling up or down properly, grinding or clicking noise.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mitsubishi Mirage is plagued by several issues that can range from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. The most severe issues include clutch slave cylinder failure, exhaust manifold cracks, and transmission solenoid failures. While the Mirage is a reliable vehicle overall, these issues can be frustrating and expensive to address.