Summary
The Mitsubishi Outlander has 55 recalls spanning the 2002 through 2025 model years, with the most serious recent issue being a front lower control arm that can detach on 2002–2013 models, causing sudden and complete loss of vehicle control.
The current generation covers the broadest recent recall activity. On 2022–2025 Outlanders and 2023–2025 Outlander PHEVs, a software error in the infotainment system can cause the rearview camera to freeze or go blank when backing up. The 2022 model year alone carries a heavy cluster of issues: the front and second-row seat belt automatic locking retractors can release early and fail to hold a child seat securely in a crash; the fuel pump can fail and stall the engine while driving; and on one specific 2022 vehicle, an incorrectly welded center pillar reduces the body's structural strength in a crash. The liftgate gas spring cylinders on 2014–2022 models, including PHEV variants through 2022, can corrode, lose pressure, and either rupture or let the liftgate drop without warning.
Going back to the mid-generation years, 2017–2019 Outlanders equipped with the forward collision mitigation system have a software defect that can cause the system to apply the brakes unnecessarily, and when the driver brakes at the same moment, the vehicle can decelerate sharply. The 2016 model has two separate concerns: door latch mechanisms that can release in high heat and let a door swing open while driving, and rear brake caliper parking brake shafts that can rust and seize, potentially causing the vehicle to roll away when parked. On 2014–2019 models, the second-row center seat belt buckle can interfere with the adjacent right-side buckle when the seat backs are folded, leaving an occupant without a working restraint in a crash. Power steering fluid can leak from a corroded pressure tube on 2007–2013 models equipped with 6-speed automatic transmissions, reducing steering assist. The 2007–2013 model years also share two wiper-related recalls: water intrusion can corrode the wiper motor and cause it to fail, and separately, can corrode the wiper linkage ball joint until the wipers detach and stop working entirely.
The 2008–2012 generation has a drive belt automatic tensioner flange that can crack and let the accessory belt fly off, discharging the battery, stalling the engine, and removing power steering assist simultaneously. The 2008 model also has a brake booster check valve that can stick when the engine is shut off, temporarily reducing brake assist when the vehicle first pulls away. Brake lights that fail to illuminate when the pedal is pressed are a recurring concern across 2007–2009 models due to a malfunctioning brake light switch.
Earlier 2003 models have two issues affecting the same area: water entering the front floorboard can corrode wiring connectors for the seatbelt pretensioner, side airbag sensor, and brake lights, disabling any or all of those systems. A separate 2003 concern involves dealer-installed trailer hitch wiring control modules that can overheat and start a fire. The 2003 model also has a throttle valve that can ice over in extreme cold and stick the accelerator open, preventing the pedal from returning to idle.
