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2015 Mirage ES - Intermittent No-Start and Security Light

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:05 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2015 Mitsubishi Mirage ES

Hi everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating problem with my 2015 Mitsubishi Mirage ES, which has around 70,000 miles. Occasionally, it won't start. When I turn the key, all the dashboard lights come on, but the engine won't crank. I also notice the security light (a car icon with a key) flashes rapidly when this happens.

If I wait a few minutes, sometimes trying the key again, it will eventually start. It's completely intermittent and unpredictable. The battery is relatively new, and I've checked the terminals. It feels like an immobilizer issue, but I'm not sure what to check.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Mirage? Could it be the key itself, the ignition switch, or something more complex with the immobilizer system? Any ideas on how to troubleshoot this would be helpful.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:05 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The intermittent no-start condition coupled with a rapidly flashing security light on your 2015 Mitsubishi Mirage ES strongly suggests an issue with the vehicle's immobilizer system. This system is designed to prevent theft by ensuring only authorized keys can start the car.

Common Causes for Immobilizer Issues:

  1. Faulty Key Transponder: The microchip (transponder) inside your key might be damaged, or its signal could be weak. The car's immobilizer antenna won't be able to read its unique code.
  2. Ignition Switch/Antenna Ring: The antenna ring around the ignition cylinder reads the key's transponder. If this ring or its wiring is faulty, it won't receive the key's signal.
  3. Immobilizer Control Unit (ECU/Immobilizer Module): The main immobilizer module or the engine control unit (ECU) itself (which often integrates immobilizer functions) could be failing or experiencing a communication error.
  4. Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring between the antenna ring, immobilizer module, and ECU can interrupt communication.
  5. Low Battery Voltage (less likely if new battery): While you mentioned a new battery, extremely low voltage can sometimes cause electronic systems to glitch. However, the flashing security light points more directly to immobilizer failure.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Try a Spare Key: If you have a spare key, try using it exclusively for a few days. If the problem disappears, your primary key's transponder is likely the culprit.
  2. Inspect Key Fob: Ensure the key fob isn't damaged or has a dead battery (though the transponder chip is usually passive and doesn't rely on the fob battery for starting).
  3. Wiggle Key/Ignition: When the no-start occurs, try wiggling the key in the ignition cylinder. If it starts, it could indicate a worn ignition switch or a loose connection to the antenna ring.
  4. Check for DTCs: While no check engine light is on, a professional scan tool might be able to pull immobilizer-specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the body control module (BCM) or engine control unit (ECU). These codes can pinpoint the exact component causing the issue.

When to See a Shop: If using a spare key doesn't resolve the issue, or if you can't access immobilizer-specific DTCs, it's best to take your Mirage to a Mitsubishi dealership or a specialized auto locksmith/electronics shop. They have the necessary diagnostic equipment to read immobilizer codes, test key transponders, and diagnose/replace components like the antenna ring or immobilizer module. Immobilizer system repairs often require programming new keys or modules to the vehicle's ECU, a task that typically requires dealer-specific tools.

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