What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Excellent fuel economy (36 MPG combined) keeps running costs low.

How many recalls does the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage have?

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage a good buy used?

Verdict: Recommended. Excellent fuel economy (36 MPG combined) keeps running costs low. A critical recall for the airbag control unit requires verification of repair. The vehicle has a high TSB count, indicating potential for various minor issues. Safety ratings are strong across the board, with 4 stars overall. Its 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine is designed for economy, not spirited driving. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage.

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Report

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

Updated Jun 12, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Recommended

Key Takeaways

Excellent fuel economy (36 MPG combined) keeps running costs low.
A critical recall for the airbag control unit requires verification of repair.
The vehicle has a high TSB count, indicating potential for various minor issues.
Safety ratings are strong across the board, with 4 stars overall.

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Overview

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage prioritizes fuel efficiency and affordability, making it a budget-conscious choice for urban commuting. Its compact size and straightforward design appeal to drivers seeking no-frills mobility. However, a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a critical recall concerning the airbag system suggest potential underlying reliability concerns that used car buyers must investigate thoroughly. While it boasts solid safety ratings, the recall demands attention.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall addresses the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Vibrations can cause internal acceleration sensor misinterpretation, potentially disabling airbags. The fix involves reprogramming the SRS-ECU software.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns1

Service Bulletins27

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers demanding strong acceleration or engaging performance.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Manual 5-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG: 36

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbag System Malfunction (Recall)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Engine Performance Issues

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

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 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

Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage for daily use?

Practicality score is 7.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. EPA combined economy is 36 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 487 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 7.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Control Module (SRS-ECU) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Base MSRP is $13,395.

What engine is in the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

Engine specs list 3 • 1.2.

What transmission does the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

EPA combined estimate is 36 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

6 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.