2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Safety Report

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage presents a mixed safety picture, with a notable recall concerning its airbag system and several complaints related to critical components, despite generally good crash test ratings. NHTSA recorded 9 total complaints for this model year, including 3 crashes and 4 injuries, but no fatalities or fires. The most frequently cited complaint component is 'AIR BAGS' with 2 specific complaints, followed by 'VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL', 'ENGINE', 'STEERING', 'SERVICE BRAKES', 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING', 'POWER TRAIN', and 'STEERING, SUSPENSION, WHEELS' each with one complaint. This suggests potential issues across multiple vehicle systems. One significant safety concern is the single recall issued for the 2018 Mirage, specifically for the 'AIR BAGS' system. This recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 18V-024) addresses a defect in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) internal acceleration sensor, which could prevent airbags from deploying as designed in a crash, thereby increasing the risk of injury. This directly correlates with two complaints where airbags failed to deploy in crashes, resulting in injuries, highlighting the severity of this recall. Crash test performance for the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is generally positive, with NHTSA awarding an Overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal crash, 4 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance. While these ratings indicate a reasonable level of occupant protection in various crash scenarios, the documented airbag non-deployment incidents, despite the recall, underscore that real-world performance can sometimes deviate from controlled test environments, especially if recall repairs are not completed. Common complaint patterns include instances of the vehicle stalling while driving at various speeds, issues with steering pulling to one side, and inconsistent braking performance ranging from abrupt engagement to insufficient stopping power. There are also reports of premature tire wear and issues with headlight illumination. The 'POWER TRAIN' complaint, coupled with an 'ENGINE' complaint describing shaking and revving, suggests potential powertrain reliability concerns. The airbag recall and related complaints are the most critical safety issues, directly impacting occupant protection in a collision.

Our recommendation: Given the critical airbag recall and multiple complaints across various systems, ensure all recall repairs have been completed and thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history for recurring issues, especially related to the engine, steering, and brakes, before purchasing.