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2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Critical safety recalls affect the passenger frontal airbag inflator and the brake assist vacuum pump. Ensure these are addressed.
  • The i-MiEV's electric powertrain delivers excellent city fuel economy, rated at 112 MPGe combined.
  • Despite no logged consumer complaints, a high TSB count (23) indicates other potential issues may arise.
  • The vehicle's safety ratings are 'Not Rated' by NHTSA, underscoring the importance of verifying recall completion.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a compact electric city car designed for urban efficiency. It offers a unique, albeit dated, package for budget-conscious electric vehicle shoppers. Its small footprint and electric propulsion make it ideal for short commutes and navigating congested city streets. However, potential buyers must be aware of significant safety recalls and a high volume of technical service bulletins (TSBs) that suggest potential long-term reliability concerns.

Critical Failure Risk

The brake assist vacuum pump can fail due to water penetration and corrosion, leading to reduced braking performance. This is a critical safety recall item.

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

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
112
MPG
City
121
MPG
Highway
102
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

9.1/ 10

Watch-outs include limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Urban commuters seeking the lowest possible running costs for short distances.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers requiring long-range capability or frequent highway use.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Electricity
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic (A1)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
112

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See the full 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Brake Assist Vacuum Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Frontal Airbag Inflator Module Rupture

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire mounting lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake fluid (DOT 3)) - 12V Battery Health Check

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 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 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 9.1/10. Watch-outs include limited seating. EPA combined economy is 112 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 9.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation and Inspection (Parts: Tire mounting lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) - Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake fluid (DOT 3)) - 12V Battery Health Check at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $100 - $200. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Assist Vacuum Pump (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What transmission does the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, transmission is Automatic (A1). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 i-MiEV require Electricity gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Electricity.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

EPA combined estimate is 112 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, seating capacity is 4.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (A1).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

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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