Affordable, fuel-efficient subcompact car aimed at budget-conscious buyers and urban commuters.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protege.
Key Features
Key Features Model:
Fuel efficiency, reliability, compact size for maneuverability, affordable price point.
Manual Purpose
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge for all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic tasks, reducing reliance on expensive dealer services.
Hydraulically Actuated Dry Single Plate Clutch (Manual)
Drivetrain
Drivetrain Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length Approx:
160.0 - 165.0 inches (4064 - 4191 mm)
Width Approx:
65.0 - 66.5 inches (1651 - 1664 mm)
Height Approx:
53.0 - 54.0 inches (1346 - 1372 mm)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase Approx:
96.9 inches (2461 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
2050 - 2200 lbs (930 - 1000 kg)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Side:
Not widely available or varied by year/testing protocol.
NHTSA Front Passenger Side:
Not widely available or varied by year/testing protocol.
Active Features
ABS Availability:
Optional on some trims/years.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts, rear 3-point seatbelts.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or optional CD player. Aftermarket head unit installation common.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited; primarily ABS (optional) on some models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No factory integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket solutions are available.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil
Oil Change Interval Recommendation:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (5,000 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Service Intervals Air
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), inspect more frequently.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type (standard copper vs. platinum).
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Fluid Specifications Oil
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ category. Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate variations).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-SF #2) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi ATF-SP II M or equivalent ATF.
Fluid Specifications Brakes
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, ignition components (spark plugs, wires), minor oil leaks from seals.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, minor issues with power window regulators, occasional sensor failures.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi History Context:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, known for its diverse range of vehicles, from small cars to SUVs and performance cars.
Model Evolution
Mirage Heritage:
The Mirage nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi for various models globally since the 1970s. The 1995-2003 generation (CE) represents a significant redesign from its predecessors.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly in other regions.
Production Years Model
Production Years Ce Mirage:
1995-2003 (for the CE platform covered by this manual).
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Fuel Economy Ratings:
Consistently ranked well for fuel efficiency in its class during its production years, often cited in consumer reports for economy.