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2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The brake vacuum pump is a critical system with a history of recalls, indicating potential for failure and requiring thorough inspection.
  • While owner complaints are absent, two recalls for the brake system highlight a persistent issue that may impact braking performance.
  • The i-MiEV delivers excellent electric efficiency in the city (126 MPGe) and good highway efficiency (99 MPGe).
  • Its compact size and rear-wheel drive make it agile for urban environments.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a compact electric city car designed for urban commuting. It offers efficient electric propulsion with respectable city MPGe, but its limited range and the presence of significant recalls, particularly for the brake vacuum system, demand careful consideration from used car shoppers. Its unique, tall, and narrow design prioritizes interior space within a small footprint.

Critical Failure Risk

The hydraulic power assist vacuum system for the service brakes has been subject to two recalls. Failures can stem from software programming, corrosion from road salt, or water penetration causing pump failure. This impacts braking performance.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
66HP
Torque
147 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
112
MPG
City
126
MPG
Highway
99
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.9/ 10

Practicality

6.4/ 10

Watch-outs include small boot, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Urban commuters seeking an economical and eco-friendly daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers needing extensive range for highway travel or long commutes.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Electricity
Seating Capacity
4
Horsepower
66 hp
Torque
147 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (A1)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Wagon
EPA Combined MPG
112

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Most Common Issues

1. Brake Vacuum Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

15,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (3 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.4/10. Watch-outs include small boot, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 112 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 190 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 6.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 15,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $150 - $300. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Vacuum Pump (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

Base MSRP is $29,125.

What engine is in the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

Output is 66 hp • 147 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, transmission is Automatic (A1). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 i-MiEV require Electricity gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Electricity.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

EPA combined estimate is 112 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, fuel economy range is 112 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (A1).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2013 Nissan Leaf.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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