Generations
HA1W — First Generation
2006–2013
3B20 MIVEC
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Mitsubishi I problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting area structural weakness
MOT data shows this model fails at 11.5x the national average for load-bearing structure problems within 30cm of subframe mounting points at 60-80k miles. The lightweight construction and small size may concentrate stress around suspension pickup points. This is classified as a dangerous defect by MOT standards as it affects the structural integrity of the vehicle's suspension mounting. Higher mileage examples should be carefully inspected around all suspension attachment areas.
What happens if ignoredStructural failure around suspension mounting points can cause loss of vehicle control and complete suspension collapse. The car must be taken off the road immediately if this defect is identified. Professional structural assessment is required before any repair attempt.
Independent garage
£500–£1,500
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,200–£3,000
Parts only
£200–£800
Minor
Steering rack gaiter deterioration
MOT data shows this model fails at up to 50.2x the national average for steering rack gaiter and ball joint dust cover damage across multiple mileage bands. The high failure rate suggests the rubber components may be particularly prone to splitting or perishing on this model. While not immediately dangerous, damaged gaiters allow dirt and water into steering components, leading to expensive rack replacement if left unrepaired.
What happens if ignoredDamaged gaiters allow road dirt and water to contaminate steering rack internals, leading to accelerated wear and eventual rack replacement. Early replacement of gaiters costs under £100 but delayed action can result in rack replacement costing £600-£1,200.
Independent garage
£60–£120
Specialist
£80–£140
Main dealer
£120–£200
Parts only
£20–£50
Minor
CV joint boot deterioration
MOT data shows this model fails at 15.9x the national average for CV joint boot deterioration at 40-60k miles with a worsening trend. The constant velocity joint boots protect the driveshaft joints from contamination. The high failure rate suggests the rubber compound or design may be inadequate for the operating conditions on this small car.
What happens if ignoredFailed CV joint boots allow dirt and water to contaminate the joint, leading to wear and eventual joint failure. Boot replacement typically costs £80-£150 per side but delayed action can require complete driveshaft replacement at £300-£500 per side.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£100–£180
Main dealer
£150–£250
Parts only
£25–£60
Minor
Suspension joint dust cover deterioration
MOT data shows this model fails at 21.3x the national average for suspension joint dust cover deterioration at 40-60k miles with a worsening trend. These protective covers prevent contamination of ball joints and suspension pivots. The high failure rate suggests the rubber compounds may not be suitable for UK climate conditions or the suspension design creates excessive stress on these components.
What happens if ignoredFailed dust covers allow contamination of suspension joints, accelerating wear and reducing component life. Dust cover replacement is relatively inexpensive but contaminated joints may require complete replacement of suspension arms or links at significantly higher cost.
Independent garage
£60–£120
Specialist
£80–£150
Main dealer
£120–£200
Parts only
£15–£40
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Mitsubishi I fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 50x the fleet average
Sample: 286 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 325 tests
Suspension joint dust cover severely deteriorated
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 379 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 199 tests
Transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot...
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 442 tests
Brake pipes corroded
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 10x the fleet average
Sample: 286 tests
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Related
Mitsubishi I reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi I?
The Mitsubishi I has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting area structural weakness.
Is the Mitsubishi I reliable?
The Mitsubishi I has 1 dangerous and 0 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Mitsubishi I problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting area structural weakness) costs £500–£1,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.