Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage has notable issues with engine components and non-compliant exterior lighting, potentially affecting safety. Buyers should closely examine these areas to avoid major costs or safety hazards.
Known issues to inspect
Crankshaft pulley may detach
How to check: Inspect the area around the crankshaft pulley for signs of looseness or wear.
Non-compliant headlamp assemblies
How to check: Verify aftermarket headlamps meet FMVSS No. 108 with amber side reflectors.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from the engine.
Red flag: Unusual knocking or rattling
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Illuminated engine warning light
- 03
City driving
What to check: Notice any irregular engine behavior or noises.
Red flag: Engine stutter or vibration
- 04
Parking
What to check: Feel for smooth steering response and braking.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or grinding brakes
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the crankshaft bolt been checked recently?
- Are the headlamps original or aftermarket?
- Have there been any unresolved recalls?
- What's the maintenance history like?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Title certificate
- Previous sale receipts
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/8/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2000 Mitsubishi Mirage.