There isn’t a single battery type for all Mitsubishi vehicles. Most conventional Mitsubishis use a 12-volt lead-acid battery for starting and electronics, while hybrids and electric models use a high-voltage traction battery (typically lithium-ion) along with a 12-volt auxiliary battery.
Battery types by Mitsubishi model family
Here is how the battery setup typically breaks down across common Mitsubishi models and drivetrains to help you identify which battery your car uses.
- Conventional gasoline and diesel Mitsubishi models: a 12-volt lead-acid battery that may be flooded or maintenance-free; many newer cars use an AGM (absorbed glass mat) 12V battery for improved performance and longevity.
- Plug-in hybrids and some hybrids (e.g., Outlander PHEV): a 12-volt auxiliary battery for electronics plus a high-voltage traction battery (usually lithium-ion) that powers the electric motor and assists the gasoline engine.
- Electric Mitsubishi models (i-MiEV, other pure EV variants): a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack provides propulsion, with a smaller 12-volt battery for auxiliary systems.
Concluding note: Depending on your model, you may need to replace the 12V battery or, in hybrids/EVs, the high-voltage traction battery may require service by trained technicians. Always check the owner's manual or contact a Mitsubishi service center for exact specs.
Model-specific notes
Outlander PHEV
The Outlander PHEV uses a 12V battery for auxiliary systems and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack for propulsion. The 12V battery in newer models is often AGM-equipped to handle the hybrid power demands.
i-MiEV
The i-MiEV is a fully electric vehicle with a high-voltage lithium-ion traction battery powering the drivetrain, complemented by a smaller 12V battery for lights and electronics.
Non-hybrid Mitsubishi passenger cars (e.g., Lancer, Mirage, Eclipse Cross variants without PHEV)
These typically rely on a traditional 12V lead-acid battery (flooded or AGM) for starting and electrical systems, with no high-voltage traction battery.
Summary
In short, Mitsubishi vehicles use two broad battery categories: a 12-volt auxiliary battery for most models, and a high-voltage traction battery (lithium-ion in recent hybrids and EVs) for propulsion in hybrids and electric cars. Always verify your exact model and year in the owner’s manual or with a Mitsubishi dealer to know the precise battery type and replacement requirements.