2016 Mitsubishi Mirage Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • A single critical recall impacts the airbag system's electronic control unit, potentially preventing airbag deployment. Ensure this recall has been addressed.
  • Despite no consumer complaints logged, 15 Technical Service Bulletins suggest other minor issues may have surfaced during ownership.
  • NHTSA has not provided overall safety ratings for this model, leaving buyers to assess its safety profile through other means.
  • Fuel economy figures for this model year are listed as zero, which is an anomaly and requires further investigation or clarification.
Overview

2016 Mitsubishi Mirage

The 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact car that prioritizes affordability and fuel efficiency. For the used car shopper, it offers a budget-friendly entry point, but its value is tempered by a significant safety recall and a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). While consumer complaints are absent, the recall related to the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is a serious concern that demands verification of repair. The absence of NHTSA safety ratings means buyers must rely on other indicators of its protective capabilities.

Critical Failure Risk

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can misinterpret vibrations as a sensor error, leading to airbag disabling. This is addressed by a critical recall.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

First-time car buyers seeking the lowest possible entry price.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing top-tier safety ratings and comprehensive crash test data.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Mitsubishi Mirage Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Body Style
Hatchback

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Most Common Issues

1. SRS Airbag System Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Minor Electrical Gremlins

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: SRS Airbag ECU (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What body style is the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage, body style is hatchback.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Mitsubishi Mirage?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.