When considering a new vehicle, especially from brands like Mitsubishi, potential buyers often turn to owner reviews for genuine insights. These reviews offer a ground-level perspective on the ownership experience, highlighting both the positives and negatives that official marketing materials might overlook. This article delves into a firsthand account from a Mitsubishi owner, shedding light on some recurring issues that prospective buyers should be aware of.
One significant concern raised in owner reviews revolves around the durability of certain components, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions. A notable example is the active grill shutter, a feature designed to improve fuel efficiency. However, its placement, often low and behind the front bumper, makes it vulnerable to road debris, snow, and ice. One owner reported experiencing a check engine light issue in March 2024, only to discover that the active grill shutter needed replacement. The quoted repair cost from the dealership was around $500, a significant expense for what might be considered premature failure.
Warranty coverage is another critical aspect highlighted in Mitsubishi Reviews. In the aforementioned case, despite the vehicle being relatively new, the owner was informed that the warranty was voided due to exceeding mileage limits, even though it hadn’t been a full year since the repair. This experience underscores the importance of understanding the fine print of warranty terms, particularly concerning mileage versus time limitations. The owner’s inquiry revealed that purchasing the part separately would cost $371.15, but self-installation would further void the warranty, necessitating dealer repair at a total cost of $495.00.
Adding to the list of concerns, the owner’s son pointed out a potential design flaw: the active grill shutter’s location makes it susceptible to damage from snow and ice buildup during winter. This could lead to repeated replacements in snowy climates, posing an ongoing expense for owners in such regions. Furthermore, the check engine light issue prevented the car from passing inspection, rendering a two-year-old vehicle non-compliant with state regulations.
Beyond the active grill shutter, other components have also surfaced in Mitsubishi reviews as potential weak points. The steering wheel roller/mouse, a control interface for infotainment systems, reportedly malfunctioned for the same owner. Upon taking the vehicle to the dealership, they were met with the response that the car was no longer under warranty, leaving the owner to bear the replacement cost.
For those residing in areas with substantial snowfall, Mitsubishi reviews sometimes mention issues related to snow accumulation in the wheel wells and rims. This can lead to significant vibrations and shaking in the steering wheel, creating an uncomfortable and potentially alarming driving experience. In this specific instance, the dealership attributed the shaking to packed snow and offered to hose it out for a labor fee of $25 to $40, highlighting a recurring maintenance need in snowy conditions.
In conclusion, while Mitsubishi vehicles offer various appealing features, owner reviews, like the one detailed above, suggest potential areas of concern regarding durability, warranty limitations, and suitability for harsh climates. Prospective buyers should carefully consider these real-world experiences, especially if they live in regions with snow or extreme weather, and thoroughly review warranty terms to make informed decisions. These Mitsubishi reviews serve as a valuable resource for understanding the ownership experience beyond the showroom floor.
