2012 MITSUBISHI I-MIEV

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi or 8-10 years

Symptoms: Range drops below 40 miles on full charge (original ~62 mi EPA), Battery capacity bars disappear on dash display, Increased charging times, Cell imbalance codes (P1A15, P1A1A)

Fix: Battery pack replacement is the only real fix. Used packs from salvage run $3,000-5,000, new OEM discontinued but aftermarket cells available. Requires lift, high-voltage safety procedures, 6-8 hours labor including BMS relearn

Estimated cost: $5,000-8,000

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: Hard brake pedal, increased stopping distance, Vacuum pump runs continuously or not at all, Brake warning light with code C1552, Whining or buzzing noise from under hood

Fix: Electric vacuum pump (since there's no engine) fails commonly. Pump replacement is 2-3 hours, booster itself another 3-4 if the diaphragm tears. Subject to recall but many units still fail post-fix. Pump alone is easier, booster requires brake line work

Estimated cost: $800-1,800

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Loud whining or grinding from front axle during acceleration, Metallic debris in gear oil, Vibration through steering wheel, Eventually: complete loss of drive

Fix: Single-speed reduction gear uses small bearings that wear prematurely, especially if fluid was never changed. Requires complete transaxle removal and rebuild. No reman units available—must source used or rebuild with aftermarket bearings. 8-10 hours labor, specialized EV knowledge required

Estimated cost: $2,500-4,500

Symptoms: Car won't enter READY mode even with full traction battery, Dash won't illuminate, door locks inoperative, P1A13 code (DC-DC converter communication fault), Clicking from under rear seat

Fix: Tiny 12V battery under rear seat powers computers and contactors. Fails every 3-5 years, often without warning. Unlike gas cars, you can't jump-start to limp home. Replacement is 0.5 hours, but must be specific absorbed glass mat (AGM) type. DC-DC converter can also fail (rare), which is $1,200 part plus 4 hours

Estimated cost: $250-400 (battery), $1,800-2,200 (DC-DC converter)

Typical onset: 70,000+ mi or heavy fast-charge use

Symptoms: CHAdeMO fast charging won't initiate or stops mid-charge, Pins in charge port corroded or burned, Error code on fast-charge station, Level 2 charging still works fine

Fix: CHAdeMO inlet wears from repeated plugging or moisture intrusion. Pins can arc and burn. Inlet replacement requires removing inner fender liner, 2-3 hours. Part availability is hit-or-miss, sometimes requires used unit from salvage

Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Typical onset: 90,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Reduced power / limp mode during highway driving, P0AA6 (hybrid battery coolant pump performance), Inverter overheating warnings, Coolant pump doesn't run, audible when key is on

Fix: Electric motor and inverter share a coolant loop with electric pump. Pump impeller or motor fails, causes inverter overtemp and power limiting. Pump is under vehicle, 2-3 hours with coolant drain/refill. Must use specific ethylene glycol coolant, not standard antifreeze

Estimated cost: $700-1,200

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Door won't latch securely, dash shows door ajar, Window drops into door or won't rise, Plastic window regulator clips break, Door handle feels loose or doesn't engage

Fix: Kei-car platform uses lightweight plastic latches and regulators that wear. Window regulator replacement is 2-3 hours per door with panel removal, latch is 1.5 hours. Parts availability is poor for some trim pieces, may need salvage yard sourcing

Estimated cost: $400-800 per door