Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage has a moderate number of owner complaints and a few significant recalls. Key issues include problems with headlights, engine components, and brake systems, although the data is relatively limited. Prospective buyers should focus on these areas during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 43 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09E025000 FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09E012000 FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E026000 FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V311001 MITSUBISHI AMERICA/CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #97V179000 MITSUBISHI/VACUUM CHECK VALVE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 9 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 8 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 5 complaints
- Power Train 5 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 3 complaints
- Structure 3 complaints
Of the 43 complaints on file, 12 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 43 complaints, owners report 11 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Headlights lacking reflectors
How to check: Verify the presence of amber side reflectors on headlights
Crankshaft pulley bolt loose
How to check: Check for unusual engine noises or visible pulley issues
Vacuum check valve sticking
How to check: Ensure brake pedal operation is smooth and consistent
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Rattling sounds indicate issues
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Monitor car's response and engine vibration
Red flag: Delay or excessive vibration
- 04
City driving
What to check: Ensure brakes engage smoothly
Red flag: Grinding or sticking brakes
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for stable power delivery
Red flag: Hesitation or loss of power
- 06
Cruising
What to check: Listen for wind noise or vibrations
Red flag: Excessive wind noise indicates leaks
- 07
Hard braking
What to check: Test emergency braking effectiveness
Red flag: Increased stopping distance
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the crankshaft pulley been inspected?
- Any issues with the brake system recently?
- Have the headlights been replaced or modified?
- Is there a service history for the engine?
- Any airbag deployment or issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.