Introduction
When it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, reliability is often at the top of the list for most buyers. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, part of the larger Mitsubishi Group, has been producing vehicles since 1917 and has carved out a niche in the global automotive market.
Historical Reliability and Rankings
According to RepairPal, Mitsubishi ranks 6th out of 32 car brands for reliability, with an average annual repair cost of $535—lower than the industry average. However, J.D. Power studies show mixed results, with Mitsubishi ranking 24th out of 32 brands in terms of overall reliability in 2020.
Common Issues
- Transmission problems, particularly in older models (2000-2005)
- Electrical system issues, including faulty sensors and wiring
- Climate control system failures
- Suspension wear, especially in SUV models
- Engine problems, such as oil leaks and excessive component wear
Warranty Coverage and Cost of Ownership
Mitsubishi offers a competitive warranty package:
- 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
Total cost of ownership tends to be favorable:
Average Annual Maintenance: $535
Insurance Costs: Moderate
Fuel Efficiency: Above Average
Purchase Price: Below Segment Average
Recent Improvements and Standout Models
Mitsubishi has invested heavily in research and development, with newer models receiving positive reviews. Notable models include:
-
Mitsubishi Outlander
- Above-average reliability ratings
- Strong safety features
- Comfortable ride
- Spacious interior
-
Mitsubishi Mirage
- Excellent fuel economy
- Low maintenance costs
- Budget-friendly price point
New Technologies and Features
Recent models include:
- Advanced all-wheel-drive systems
- Forward collision mitigation systems
- Blind spot warning systems
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordability compared to competitors
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Good fuel efficiency across the lineup
- Standard safety features
- Innovative features and technology
Cons
- Limited model selection
- Interior quality sometimes lags behind competitors
- Resale value tends to be lower than Toyota or Honda
- Less powerful engines
- Limited dealer networks
"While Mitsubishi may not lead the pack in luxury or performance, they offer reliable transportation at a reasonable price point, backed by an excellent warranty program." - Automotive Industry Analyst
Final Verdict
Mitsubishi vehicles represent a solid value proposition for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize warranty coverage and reliability over brand prestige. While they may not lead their segments in sophistication or performance, recent models offer dependable transportation with competitive features and safety technology.
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Remember to:
- Research specific models of interest
- Compare with competitors in the same price range
- Test drive before making a decision
- Consider local dealer support and parts availability