Generation:
Fifth Generation (CJ/CK/CM/CL)
Chassis Codes:
CJ1A, CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CL1A, CL2A, CL4A
Engine Codes Primary:
4G13, 4G14, 4G15, 4G18
Engine Codes Optional:
4G93 (GDI variants), 6A11 (V6 variants in some markets)
Segment:
Budget-friendly subcompact car
Target Audience:
First-time car buyers, young drivers, economy-focused consumers
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier
Distinguishing Factors:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, surprisingly spacious interior for its class, reliable powertrain (especially the 1.5L and 1.8L engines).
Exterior Styling:
Aerodynamic and rounded styling, available in hatchback and sedan body styles.
Interior Design:
Simple and functional dashboard layout, comfortable seating, good visibility.
Powertrain Options:
Range of fuel-efficient inline-four engines, with manual and automatic transmissions.
Powertrain:
Engine (4G13, 4G14, 4G15, 4G18, 4G93 GDI, 6A11 V6), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Engine Control System (ECU/ECM diagnostics), Turbocharging (if applicable in specific markets/trims)
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (F5M12/F5M22 variants), Automatic Transmission (F4A2x/F4A3x variants), Clutch System, Drive Axles, Differentials (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam/Multi-link), Steering System (Power Steering, Manual Steering), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), ABS System (if equipped), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Body Control Modules, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Audio System, SRS Airbag System, Immobilizer System (if equipped)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Locks, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Hood, Trunk/Hatch, HVAC System, Wiper System, Washer System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment, Belt Inspections and Replacement, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Tire Rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for Engine, Transmission, and ABS, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Fault Finding Procedures
Repair:
Engine Overhaul Procedures, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Steering System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Scan Tool Procedures, Sensor Testing and Calibration, Actuator Testing, Fuel Pressure Testing, Compression Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine 1.5L 4G15:
1.5L SOHC 12-valve Inline-4
Engine 1.5L 4G15 Horsepower:
92 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1.5L 4G15 Torque:
94 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 1.8L 4G93:
1.8L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (GDI in some markets)
Engine 1.8L 4G93 Horsepower:
111 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1.8L 4G93 Torque:
117 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Economy Estimated Mpg City:
28-32 MPG
Fuel Economy Estimated Mpg Highway:
35-40 MPG
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine 1.3L 4G13:
1.3L SOHC 12-valve Inline-4 (approx. 76 hp)
Engine 1.6L 4G18:
1.6L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (approx. 94 hp, common in some Asian markets)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed Manual (F5M12/F5M22)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (F4A2x/F4A3x)
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SPIII or equivalent ATF
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 US quarts (initial fill)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approx. 1.8 - 2.0 US quarts
Length Hatchback:
3810 mm (149.9 inches)
Length Sedan:
4225 mm (166.3 inches)
Width:
1665 mm (65.6 inches)
Height:
1390 mm (54.7 inches) - Hatchback, 1380 mm (54.3 inches) - Sedan
Wheelbase:
2450 mm (96.5 inches)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 9.5 cu ft (rear seats up)
Curb Weight Estimated Min:
990 kg (2180 lbs)
Curb Weight Estimated Max:
1100 kg (2425 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model and market (consult vehicle placard)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated or 3-star (Varies by model year and testing procedures)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not rated or 3-star (Varies by model year and testing procedures)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good (Varies by model year and specific test)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims
Electronic Brake Force Distribution Ebdf:
Often paired with ABS systems
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard)
Airbags Side:
Optional Side Impact Airbags (on select trims/markets)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Rear Outboard Seats) on later models
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape, typically 4 speakers. Upgradable to aftermarket units.
Dashboard Instruments:
Analogue speedometer, tachometer (optional on some trims), fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Air Conditioning HVAC:
Manual climate controls, standard on most trims.
OBD Ii Port:
Located under the dashboard for diagnostic scanning.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Standard:
Every 30,000 miles (for standard plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Iridium:
Up to 60,000 miles (if equipped with iridium plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (Crucial for interference engines like 4G93)
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 in warmer climates)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.8 US quarts with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant (DIA-COOL) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and engine movement.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can become fouled or fail, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks can crack with age, leading to coolant loss.
Automatic Transmission Shifts:
Slightly hesitant shifts can be common, though significant issues might indicate internal wear.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop a humming or grinding noise with mileage.
Power Window Motors:
Can fail, leading to windows not operating.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Founded in 1870, Mitsubishi Corporation has a long history in various industries, with its automotive division beginning in the early 20th century. Known for innovative technologies and robust vehicles.
Mirage Lineage:
The Mirage nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi for various compact cars since the 1970s. The 1998-2003 generation represents the fifth iteration of the globally recognized Mirage.
Production Years:
1998-2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, and assembly plants in other countries depending on market (e.g., Thailand, Colombia).
Market Reception:
Praised for affordability and fuel efficiency, though often criticized for its basic interior and less refined driving dynamics compared to some rivals.