2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Safety Report

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage presents a mixed safety picture, with notable concerns regarding its airbag system despite generally acceptable crash test ratings. NHTSA data shows 28 total complaints, including 9 crashes, 11 injuries, and 1 death. A significant pattern emerges with 'AIR BAGS' being the top complaint component, accounting for 12 of the 28 complaints. Several complaints explicitly state airbag non-deployment in crashes, including incidents at speeds up to 55 mph and severe front-end damage, directly correlating with the recall for the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) sensor. This recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V330000) addresses the risk of airbags not deploying as designed, increasing injury risk. Beyond airbags, other common complaint patterns include electrical system issues, power train problems, and service brake concerns. Specific complaints detail instances of complete power loss while driving, brake pedal going to the floor, and difficulty shifting gears. The vehicle also had a second recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V010000) for 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS', specifically for High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights that could be misadjusted, potentially reducing driver visibility or blinding oncoming traffic. While the overall NHTSA safety ratings are 4 stars across the board (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), the high number of airbag-related complaints and documented non-deployments in actual crashes raise serious questions about real-world occupant protection, especially if the recall repair was not performed or was ineffective. In summary, while the Mirage achieved decent crash test scores, the high volume of airbag non-deployment complaints and the associated recall are critical safety concerns. Other issues like sudden power loss and brake problems, though less frequent than airbag complaints, also contribute to a less-than-ideal safety profile. Potential buyers should verify that all recalls, especially the airbag recall, have been addressed.

Our recommendation: Exercise extreme caution due to critical airbag non-deployment issues and ensure all recalls, especially the airbag recall (19V330000), have been completed and verified before purchase.