🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Mirage

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

A00 series (for North America)

Platform:

Mitsubishi E platform (shared with Mitsubishi Space Star/Space Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage was positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient subcompact car, competing in a segment dominated by models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Echo/Corolla, and Ford Focus. It offered a practical and economical transportation solution for a wide range of buyers.

Competitive Analysis:

The Mirage of this era was generally praised for its nimble handling and straightforward mechanicals, making it relatively easy to maintain. Its competitive edge lay in its price point and Mitsubishi's often aggressive marketing. This service manual provides the in-depth technical knowledge necessary to maintain and repair these vehicles to factory standards, ensuring longevity and optimal performance against its competitors.

Key Features:

The 2001 Mirage was available as a sedan or coupe, offering a choice of efficient 1.5L and 1.8L engines. Key features for the time included available ABS, dual airbags, power windows and locks on higher trims, and a focus on fuel economy.

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians, dealership service departments, independent repair shops, and experienced DIY mechanics who require accurate and comprehensive information for maintenance and repair of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level software).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (Software)

Manual Scope:

Full Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format based on description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), body electrical systems (lighting, wipers, horn), HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks), airbags, chassis components, and bodywork.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension alignment, steering system adjustment, electrical component testing and replacement, body panel repair, and airbag system servicing.

Technical Depth:

Detailed technical specifications, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component locations, repair procedures with step-by-step instructions and illustrations, and factory recommended specifications for all major systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for engine performance, emissions, transmission operation, ABS, and electrical systems. Includes procedures for using diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II).

Body And Trim Coverage:

Repair procedures for body panels, doors, fenders, bumpers, hood, trunk lid, glass, and interior trim components. Includes information on alignment and fitment.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine control, chassis, body, lighting, HVAC, and safety systems, with component identification and wire color coding.

Troubleshooting Guides:

In-depth troubleshooting sections for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues, presented in a logical, step-by-step diagnostic format.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format (often with PDF or HTML based content), searchable text capabilities.

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and professional layout optimized for printing of individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

Manual Completeness:

This is a complete factory service and repair manual, offering in-depth coverage for all systems and components of the 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4G93 SOHC Inline-4

Horsepower:

Approx. 111 hp @ 5500 rpm (for 1.8L 4G93)

Torque:

Approx. 113 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for 1.8L 4G93)

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 9.5:1 (for 1.8L 4G93)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Variants:

1.5L (4G15) SOHC Inline-4; 1.8L (4G93) SOHC Inline-4.

Engine Management System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) controlled by ECU (Engine Control Unit).

OBD Ii Compliance:

Compliant with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) standards.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven water pump and thermostat.

Lubrication System Type:

Pressurized wet-sump system with gear-driven oil pump.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Transmission Features:

Both manual and automatic transmissions offered front-wheel drive (FWD). Manual transmissions feature a single-plate dry clutch. Automatic transmissions often included torque converters and electronically controlled gear shifts.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF SP-III (Mitsubishi Genuine or equivalent).

Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:

API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (consult manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.1 inches (2466 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.7 inches (4259 mm) for sedan

Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm) for coupe, 54.5 inches (1384 mm) for sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) depending on configuration.

Cargo Volume:

Varies by body style; sedan typically offers more trunk space than coupe.

Standard Tire Size:

185/70R14 or 195/60R15 (depending on trim and wheel size).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

Likely 4-star for driver and front passenger (based on similar vehicles of the era).

IIHS Ratings:

Varies; may have received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' in front crash tests depending on trim and specific test protocols of the time. Consult IIHS archives for specifics.

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes (or rear discs on some trims).

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, side-impact door beams.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc

Rear Brakes:

Drum or Disc (depending on trim)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM stereo with CD or cassette player, optional premium audio system. Typically analog climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features for this model year. Key safety systems include ABS and airbags. Cruise control may be optional on higher trims.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated smartphone connectivity or advanced Bluetooth features. Auxiliary input for audio devices may be present on some aftermarket head units or optional factory units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, using a high-quality synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs (consult manual for exact type and gap).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item for the 4G93 engine to prevent catastrophic damage if it breaks).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change for 1.8L engine. Consult manual for exact capacity.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG, SH, or SJ certified; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Synthetic oil is recommended for enhanced protection.

Coolant Specification:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or an equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Capacity approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Dexron II/III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approx. 2.0-2.2 US quarts (1.9-2.1 L). Consult manual for exact capacity.

Common Issues:

Symptoms of worn timing belt (ticking noise, misfires), potential for catalytic converter failure due to rich fuel mixture, occasional HVAC blower motor issues, wear on suspension bushings, and minor electrical gremlins in older vehicles. This manual will detail diagnosis and repair for these common problems.

Maintenance Schedule Summary:

The manual provides a detailed, mileage-based and time-based maintenance schedule covering inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt replacements, and component checks for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automotive manufacturer, has a history dating back to the early 20th century. Known for a wide range of vehicles, Mitsubishi has often focused on value, reliability, and distinctive styling, particularly in smaller car segments.

Model Evolution:

The Mitsubishi Mirage nameplate has been used for various subcompact and compact cars globally. The 2001 model represents the third generation of the Mirage in North America (often known as the C50/C60 series), succeeding the older Eterna-based models and preceding the later Lancer-based compacts. This generation was also sold as the Mitsubishi Space Star in some markets.

Production Years:

1995-2002 (for the generation covered by this manual in North America).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan and North America (Illinois, USA).

Model Variants Covered:

Sedan and Coupe body styles; all engine and transmission configurations available for the 2001 model year.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mitsubishi Mirage generally received positive reviews for its value and fuel efficiency in its segment. Specific awards are less common for this model compared to more performance-oriented vehicles, but it was recognized as a competent and affordable compact car.