1997-2002 Mitsubishi Mirage Trunk Lid: Solving Leaks, Latch Failures, and Spoiler Swaps

Known Issues for 1997-2002 Mitsubishi Mirage Trunk Lids

While the steel trunk lid panel itself is durable, the components associated with it are common sources of trouble on the 1997-2002 Mirage. Most owner complaints are related to water leaks and latch mechanism failures rather than the lid itself rusting or breaking.

Water Leaks into the Trunk

The most frequently reported issue is water collecting in the spare tire well. This is almost always caused by the failure of a seal, not a defect in the trunk lid. Before replacing the entire lid for a leak, inspect these common culprits:

• Taillight Gaskets: The foam or rubber gaskets that seal the taillight assemblies to the car's body are the number one cause of trunk leaks on this generation of Mirage. Over time, they compress and degrade, allowing water that runs down the channels on either side of the trunk lid to seep into the trunk.
• Trunk Weatherstrip: The main rubber seal that lines the trunk opening on the body of the car can also tear or become compressed, creating a path for water.
• Antenna Grommet: If your vehicle has a power or mast antenna on the rear quarter panel, the rubber grommet at its base can crack and allow water in.

Latch and Lock Failures

Problems with opening or securing the trunk are also common. These issues usually point to one of three components:

• Trunk Latch Mechanism: The latch itself can wear out or become misaligned, especially after a minor rear-end collision. This can prevent the trunk from closing securely or from opening at all. Sometimes the latch is simply bent and can be carefully adjusted back into position.
• Lock Actuator: This small electric motor powers the automatic lock. If you can open the trunk with the key but not with the remote or interior release button, the actuator has likely failed.
• Release Cable: The cable connecting the interior release lever (near the driver's seat) to the latch can stretch or break, making the interior release inoperable.

Variant Differences: Spoiler vs. No Spoiler

When purchasing a replacement trunk lid, there is one critical compatibility check you must make. The 1997-2002 Mirage was available both with and without a factory-installed rear spoiler.

• Trunk Lids for Models WITH a Spoiler: These lids have mounting holes drilled at the factory for the spoiler's bolts and often for the wiring of a third brake light if it is located in the spoiler. The OEM part number MR476217 corresponds to this version.
• Trunk Lids for Models WITHOUT a Spoiler: These lids have a clean, smooth surface with no mounting holes. The OEM part numbers MR273820 and MR748084 are for non-spoiler models.

While you can drill holes in a non-spoiler lid to add a spoiler, it is difficult to do correctly without causing paint damage and future rust issues. Filling the holes on a spoiler-equipped lid to use on a non-spoiler car requires professional bodywork and repainting.

Buying a Used 1997-2002 Mirage Trunk Lid

A used OEM trunk lid is often the best value, as new OEM parts are likely discontinued and aftermarket options are scarce. A recycled original part guarantees correct fitment, which is often a problem with cheap aftermarket body panels. Follow this checklist when inspecting a used trunk lid:

1. Confirm Spoiler Configuration: First and foremost, ensure the lid has the correct spoiler mounting holes (or lack thereof) for your specific vehicle.
2. Check for Rust: Pay close attention to the inner bottom seam where the outer skin is folded over the inner frame. Water can sit here and cause rust from the inside out. Also check around any mounting holes for the license plate bracket or spoiler.
3. Inspect for Previous Repairs: Look for signs of body filler (often called 'Bondo'). Check for wavy or distorted reflections in the paint, and run your hand along the surface to feel for inconsistencies. A small magnet can also help detect areas with thick filler, as it won't stick as strongly.
4. Look for Dents and Damage: Minor dings may be acceptable if you plan to have the panel repainted, but deep dents or creases can be costly to repair.
5. Assess Included Parts: Many used trunk lids come with the latch, lock cylinder, and wiring harness still attached. Check their condition. If you plan to reuse your existing lock cylinder to match your key, ensure the one on the donor lid can be easily removed.

Cost Comparison for a 1997-2002 Mirage Trunk Lid

The cost to replace a trunk lid can vary widely based on the source of the part and the cost of labor and painting.

Replacement Overview

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5
• Time: 1-2 hours (not including painting)
• Tools: Basic socket set, trim removal tools.

Replacing the trunk lid is a straightforward task, but it is a two-person job to avoid scratching the car or dropping the lid. The process involves propping the old lid open, disconnecting the wiring harness for the license plate lights, unbolting the lid from the two hinges, and then reversing the process. The most time-consuming part is aligning the new lid to ensure even panel gaps all around before fully tightening the bolts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)