Mitsubishi Spyder Problems by Year

Source: NHTSA · Updated May 28, 2008 · 28 owner complaints analyzed

Years with far more complaints than usual:

NHTSA has 28 owner complaints and 3 safety recalls on file for the Mitsubishi Spyder, across 5 model years (1996–2003). The 2001 model year has the most complaints (13). The most reported problem area overall is wheels.

Peak: 2001, with 13 complaints
1996: 2199621998: 3199832001: 132001132002: 3200232003: 720037

n = 28 complaints · Source: NHTSA

Mitsubishi Spyder years to avoid? What the complaint data shows

These model years drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical Spyder year: 2001. Look at what owners reported before buying one, and check the VIN for open recalls.

Model years with the most complaints

  1. 2001 Spyder: 13 complaints, 0 recalls
  2. 2003 Spyder: 7 complaints, 0 recalls
  3. 2002 Spyder: 3 complaints, 0 recalls

Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold or how long each year has been on the road, so newer and less popular years naturally have fewer complaints. Use them to spot problem patterns, not as a safety ranking.

Most common Mitsubishi Spyder problems (all years)

Problem areaComplaintsModel yearsCrashes
Wheels920
Structure740
Visibility431
Engine and Engine Cooling330
Power Train330
Electrical System210
Tires220
Air Bags110
Equipment110
Exterior Lighting110
Seat Belts110

All Mitsubishi Spyder model years

Model yearComplaintsRecallsCrash ratingTop problemCompared with other years
2003 Spyder70—Visibility
2002 Spyder30—Air Bags
2001 Spyder130—WheelsFar more complaints than other years
1998 Spyder31—Electrical System
1996 Spyder22—Structure

More from Mitsubishi: all Mitsubishi models · Mitsubishi VIN decoder

Frequently asked questions

Which Mitsubishi Spyder years should you stay away from?

By NHTSA complaints, 2001 (13) drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical Spyder year. Counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, and newer years have had less time to collect complaints.

What is the biggest problem with the Mitsubishi Spyder?

Wheels, with 9 complaints across 2 model years.

How many recalls does the Mitsubishi Spyder have?

3 safety recalls across all model years. Each model year page lists its recalls and fixes.