Mitsubishi Mirage G4 Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your Mitsubishi Mirage G4 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mitsubishi Mirage G4 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Mitsubishi Mirage G4 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Mitsubishi Mirage G4

When troubleshooting the check engine light in a Mitsubishi Mirage G4, it's crucial to follow a structured diagnostic approach to identify and resolve the issue effectively. Begin by checking for simple problems, such as ensuring that the gas cap is properly secured, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. If the light persists, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, which will pinpoint the specific issue at hand. Common causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, which is vital for monitoring exhaust air levels, or various components within the emissions system. Once you have diagnosed the trouble code, address the underlying problem promptly to avoid further complications. After completing the necessary repairs, take the vehicle for a few driving cycles to allow the system to recognize that the issue has been resolved and reset the check engine light. This methodical approach not only aids in effectively diagnosing the problem but also ensures that your Mitsubishi Mirage G4 continues to operate smoothly and efficiently.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Mitsubishi Mirage G4?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mitsubishi Mirage G4, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively. One frequent culprit is a dirty or damaged oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in regulating the air-fuel mixture for optimal engine performance. Additionally, a loose or faulty gas cap is often overlooked; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the warning light. Other potential issues may stem from the emissions system, engine control unit, or the continuously variable transmission (CVT) control system, all of which can trigger the light. Furthermore, problems within the engine management or fuel systems can also be responsible. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent further damage and maintain your vehicle's performance, making it essential for DIY enthusiasts to stay informed about these common causes.

Why is it Critical to Address the Check Engine Light in a Mitsubishi Mirage G4?

Addressing the check engine light in your Mitsubishi Mirage G4 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity and safety of your vehicle. When this warning light illuminates, it signals that there is a problem with the engine or the emission control system, which, if ignored, can lead to severe damage and costly repairs. Common issues that trigger the check engine light include malfunctioning sensors, problems with the emissions system, or a failing catalytic converter. These problems can significantly affect your vehicle's performance, leading to symptoms such as poor fuel efficiency, engine misfires, or rough idling. While it may be tempting to continue driving, doing so can exacerbate the underlying issue, potentially resulting in a breakdown or unsafe driving conditions. Therefore, it is imperative to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly. Once the necessary repairs are made, resetting the check engine light is a straightforward process that involves disconnecting the battery terminals, ensuring that the warning does not persist unnecessarily. By taking these steps, you not only protect your vehicle's health but also enhance your safety on the road.

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