How to Fix a Mitsubishi Mirage Speedometer Not Working: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've ever experienced the frustration of a malfunctioning speedometer in your Mitsubishi Mirage, you know just how inconvenient it can be. Whether you're driving down the highway or cruising through the city, constantly seeing 0 MPH on the dashboard instead of your actual speed is not only annoying but can also be dangerous. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to diagnose and fix the problem, covering everything from common causes to potential solutions.

Understanding How a Speedometer Works

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to understand how the speedometer in your Mitsubishi Mirage operates. Modern vehicles like the Mirage use an electronic speedometer, which is a far cry from the old cable-driven versions that once dominated the automotive world.

Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)

The primary component of an electronic speedometer is the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). This sensor measures the rotation of the wheels or the output shaft in the transmission. It sends this data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which processes the information and relays the speed reading to the speedometer.

For a Mitsubishi Mirage, the VSS is crucial not only for speedometer operation but also for other systems like cruise control, traction control, and even the operation of the ABS system.

Common Causes of a Speedometer Not Working in the Mitsubishi Mirage

There are several potential culprits behind a malfunctioning speedometer in your Mirage. The most common causes are:

1. Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)

A bad VSS is the most likely reason why your Mitsubishi Mirage's speedometer isn’t working. When the VSS malfunctions, it fails to send the proper speed data to the ECU, resulting in the speedometer reading zero.

In some cases, a malfunctioning VSS may also trigger a check engine light, and you may notice trouble codes like P0500, which specifically refers to a VSS circuit malfunction.

2. Damaged Wiring to or from the VSS

Another possible cause of a faulty speedometer is damaged wiring. Exposed or corroded wires leading to the VSS can interrupt the signal transmission, causing the speedometer to display 0 MPH. Often, this occurs after driving through heavy water or when the wiring is subjected to harsh conditions.

3. Malfunctioning Instrument Cluster

The speedometer is part of the larger instrument cluster in your Mirage. If the speedometer stops working but the other gauges continue to function, the issue may lie in the speedometer or the signal going to it. However, if other gauges are also malfunctioning, there could be a deeper issue with the entire instrument cluster.

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4. ECU Issues

Though less likely, a malfunctioning Engine Control Unit (ECU) could also be responsible for the speedometer failure. The ECU processes data from all the sensors in the vehicle, including the VSS, and relays it to the instrument panel. If there’s an issue with the ECU, it might fail to communicate the speed data, causing the speedometer to malfunction.

Diagnosing a Faulty Speedometer in the Mitsubishi Mirage

Diagnosing a speedometer issue in your Mitsubishi Mirage is essential to pinpointing the exact problem. Here’s how you can determine whether the issue lies with the VSS, the speedometer itself, or other components:

Step 1: Check for a Check Engine Light

The first step is to check if the check engine light (CEL) is on. If it is, use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the trouble codes. If you see a P0500 code, this confirms a problem with the VSS and indicates that it likely needs replacement.

Step 2: Is the Odometer Working?

If your odometer is still functioning properly, this suggests that the VSS is working. Since the VSS controls both the odometer and the speedometer, a working odometer typically means the speedometer itself is faulty.

Step 3: Test the Cruise Control

Next, test your cruise control. If your Mirage’s cruise control works as expected, it’s a good sign that the VSS is functional. If cruise control is not working, it suggests that the VSS may be the culprit.

Step 4: Use a Scanner to Check VSS Reporting

If you have access to an OBD-II scanner, plug it in and monitor the VSS data. If the scanner reports a constant 0 MPH while driving, it confirms that the VSS is not functioning properly, leading to the speedometer malfunction.

How to Fix a Broken Speedometer in Your Mitsubishi Mirage

Once you’ve diagnosed the issue with your Mirage's speedometer, the next step is fixing it. Here are some common repair methods based on the findings of your diagnosis.

1. Replace the VSS

If your VSS is faulty, replacing it should restore your speedometer’s functionality. The VSS is usually an affordable part, typically costing under $100. It's relatively easy to replace, but if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, a mechanic can handle the job.

2. Repair Damaged Wiring

If the problem is due to damaged wiring, you’ll need to locate and repair the affected wires. Exposed or corroded wires should be cleaned or replaced to restore proper signal transmission. It’s essential to check for any short circuits or exposed wires, especially if you’ve recently driven through water.

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3. Replace the Instrument Cluster

If your speedometer is malfunctioning due to issues with the instrument cluster itself, you may need to have the cluster repaired or replaced. This can be a more expensive fix, ranging from $150 to $400 depending on your location and the extent of the repairs.

4. ECU Repair or Replacement

If the ECU is at fault, repairing or replacing it can be a more complicated and costly process. However, this is relatively rare, and most issues can be resolved by addressing the VSS or instrument cluster.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Speedometer?

The cost of fixing a broken speedometer in a Mitsubishi Mirage can vary depending on the root cause. Here’s a breakdown of common repair costs:

• VSS Replacement: Typically under $100 for the part.
• Instrument Cluster Repair: Usually between $150 and $400.
• Wiring Repairs: Costs depend on the complexity of the wiring issue but can range from $50 to $200.
• ECU Replacement: Typically $500 to $1,000, depending on the model.

Can You Drive Without a Working Speedometer?

While it’s not recommended, driving without a speedometer is not a major safety risk unless the underlying issue is related to the VSS, causing the engine to stall. You can use smartphone apps that rely on GPS, such as Speedbox, to monitor your speed until you can get the speedometer repaired.

Conclusion

Driving your Mitsubishi Mirage without a working speedometer isn’t ideal, but it doesn’t necessarily pose an immediate danger. We recommend using a GPS-based speedometer app to keep track of your speed until you can fix the issue. Whether you choose to replace the VSS, repair the wiring, or replace the instrument cluster, following the steps outlined above will help you restore your speedometer’s functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I tell if my VSS is faulty?

Check for a check engine light and trouble codes like P0500. Also, test the cruise control and monitor the odometer for signs of malfunction.

2. How long does it take to replace a VSS?

Replacing the VSS typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the model and skill level.

3. Can I drive without a working speedometer?

Yes, but it’s not recommended for long periods. You can use a GPS-based app to monitor your speed.

4. How much does it cost to repair a speedometer in a Mitsubishi Mirage?

Repair costs can range from $150 to $400 for instrument cluster repairs, with VSS replacements generally under $100.

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5. Is a faulty speedometer dangerous?

A faulty speedometer itself isn’t dangerous, but it’s essential to address any underlying issues, especially if the VSS is affecting engine performance or cruise control.

If you want to know other articles similar to How to Fix a Mitsubishi Mirage Speedometer Not Working: A Comprehensive Guide you can visit the category Common Problems.