According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 13 documented known issues, with 8 rated critical. The most serious are Accessory drive belt auto-tensioner flange cracks (belt detaches, engine stalls), Front lower control arm / crossmember corrosion (Salt Belt states), Rear parking brake caliper corrosion (parking brake binds/won't engage), CVT software defect causes engine over-rev and stall at highway speed, CVT shudder, slipping, and premature failure ($3,000-$5,000 repair), FCM-ECU Software Defect Causes Extended Automatic Braking (Recall 18V620000), Forward Collision Mitigation Recall: Incorrect Brake Hydraulic Unit ECU Software (Recall 18V621) and .
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with continuously variable transmissions and mechanical key ignition systems. A software error in the transmission control unit (CVT-ECU) may incorrectly reduce the transmission gear ratio at high speeds, which can result in an engine stall.
Campaign #22V56300002/08/2022
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What are the most common Mitsubishi Outlander Sport problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 13 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Accessory drive belt auto-tensioner flange cracks (belt detaches, engine stalls), Front lower control arm / crossmember corrosion (Salt Belt states), Rear parking brake caliper corrosion (parking brake binds/won't engage). Of these, 8 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport reliable?
The 2011-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 13 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 8 issues are rated critical: Accessory drive belt auto-tensioner flange cracks (belt detaches, engine stalls) and Front lower control arm / crossmember corrosion (Salt Belt states) and Rear parking brake caliper corrosion (parking brake binds/won't engage) and CVT software defect causes engine over-rev and stall at highway speed and CVT shudder, slipping, and premature failure and FCM-ECU Software Defect Causes Extended Automatic Braking (Recall 18V620000) and Forward Collision Mitigation Recall: Incorrect Brake Hydraulic Unit ECU Software (Recall 18V621) and Underbody and Subframe Rust/Corrosion. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mitsubishi Outlander Sport problems?
Repair costs for known Mitsubishi Outlander Sport issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2011-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport with 13 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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Mitsubishi recall bulletin SR-22-004 and NHTSA recall 22V563000 cover certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles with a CVT and mechanical-key ignition. A temporary ignition-power-supply signal loss of at least 0.1 second can create an erroneous gear-ratio setting; above 62 mph, the CVT can drop to its lowest ratio, produce engine over-rev and engine damage, and the engine can stall. The bulletin limits the affected build window to July 31, 2018 through May 11, 2022 and requires VIN confirmation.
Common Symptoms
2019-2022 VIN, build date, CVT and mechanical-key configuration verified
recall completion and CVT-ECU software level documented
DTC and any existing engine-damage findings preserved
How to Fix
Check the VIN, build date, CVT and mechanical-key configuration for 22V563000 / SR-22-004. An authorized Mitsubishi dealer reprograms the CVT-ECU with the updated software free of charge and verifies the current software and DTC state. Do not buy a CVT-ECU, transmission or engine from this page; recall eligibility, software level and any existing damage require dealer documentation.
The Jatco-built CVT used across most Outlander Sport years is prone to shuddering, jerking, hesitation when shifting from park to drive/reverse, whining or whirring noise during acceleration, and slipping (engine revs without proportional acceleration). Degraded CVT fluid and belt/chain wear are the primary drivers, and neglected fluid accelerates failure. Powertrain is consistently the most-complained-about area in NHTSA data for this model.
Common Symptoms
shuddering or jerking during acceleration
hesitation shifting into drive or reverse
whining or whirring noise
RPM rises but car does not accelerate (slipping)
How to Fix
Replace CVT fluid on a shortened interval (roughly every 30,000-60,000 miles rather than 'lifetime'). Persistent shudder may require a valve body or full CVT replacement. Earlier model years had a separate recall (16V-563) for a CVT control module causing delayed gear engagement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Do not use this link to override a 2011 CVTF-J1 label/specification, and do not substitute ATF; verify required quantity and service procedure before ordering.
The Outlander Sport CVT develops a judder during low-speed acceleration and deceleration. The transmission hesitates when pulling away from stops, and the simulated shift points feel rough and inconsistent.
Common Symptoms
Judder during light acceleration
Hesitation from stop
Rough simulated shift points
CVT whining noise
How to Fix
Replace the CVT fluid with Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVTF-J4 every 30,000 miles. A TCM reprogram may smooth out the shift calibration. Avoid towing with the CVT-equipped models.
If your 2018 Outlander Sport is equipped with the Forward Collision Mitigation system that detects pedestrians, it may be covered by NHTSA recall 18V620000. The FCM electronic control unit was programmed with incorrect software that can command braking for longer than needed -- the system may keep the brakes applied even once a detected pedestrian has left the vehicle's path. NHTSA's concern is the driver's reaction: startled by braking that will not release, the driver may press the pedal further, and the resulting rapid deceleration raises the risk of being struck from behind. The 9,166-unit figure NHTSA lists applies to the entire campaign across several Mitsubishi models, not to the Outlander Sport alone.
Common Symptoms
Automatic emergency braking stays engaged longer than expected
Braking continues after the pedestrian is no longer in front of the vehicle
Harsh, sustained deceleration during an FCM activation
How to Fix
Mitsubishi dealers will reprogram the FCM-ECU with corrected software at no charge under recall campaign SR-18-007 (NHTSA 18V620000); owner notification began October 16, 2018. This is a software flash, so it is typically a short shop visit with nothing to replace. Look up your Outlander Sport's VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the recall is open on your specific vehicle, or call Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820.
This recall applies specifically to 2018 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with the Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system. On those cars, the software in the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit — the module that commands the brake hydraulics — may be the wrong version. With incorrect software installed, a safety system may fail to intervene when it is called on, including automatic emergency braking, Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and the Brake Auto Hold function. Nothing about the hardware is defective; it is purely a programming error, so an Outlander Sport can drive normally for years and only reveal the problem at the moment a safety system was supposed to act. Mitsubishi reported 58,916 vehicles across the entire campaign, which also includes other 2017-2018 Mitsubishi models. NHTSA's stated consequence is an increased risk of a crash.
Common Symptoms
Forward collision mitigation / automatic emergency braking does not engage when a collision is imminent
ABS does not engage during emergency braking
Stability control does not intervene in a slide
Brake Auto Hold does not function
How to Fix
Dealers reprogram the Hydraulic Unit ECU with the correct software at no cost to the owner. The campaign is Mitsubishi SR-18-008; notifications went out starting October 16, 2018. Since this is a software update rather than a repair you can see, verify it: run your VIN through nhtsa.gov/recalls, and if it still shows open, book the reflash with a Mitsubishi dealer or call MMNA at 1-888-648-7820.
NHTSA recall 18V069000 covers certain 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with 4B11 or 4B12 engines. The drive-belt automatic-tensioner flange may crack and let the accessory belt detach; the battery can discharge and the engine can stall. Recall 14V562000 separately covers unusual drive-pulley wear and belt detachment on certain 2011 vehicles. The exact primary sources do not establish the frozen lead-free-bearing production explanation.
Common Symptoms
2011-2012 VIN and 4B11 or 4B12 engine verified
both belt-related recall histories checked
belt, pulley and tensioner condition documented
How to Fix
Check the VIN for 18V069000 / SR-18-001 and 14V562000 / SR-14-009. An authorized Mitsubishi dealer performs the applicable free recall remedy: the improved-shape tensioner under 18V069000, or belt and excessively worn pulley replacement under 14V562000. Do not buy a tensioner, belt or pulley from this page; recall eligibility, engine and the dealer inspection control the remedy.
Mitsubishi SR-21-001 and NHTSA recall 21V144000 cover certain 2013-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles currently or previously registered in specified road-salt jurisdictions. Insufficient front-crossmember rust protection can allow corrosion after long exposure to snowmelt water and anti-freezing agents; a front lower control arm may detach and cause loss of vehicle control. The campaign expands 20V279000 and remains VIN- and registration-history controlled.
Common Symptoms
2013-2015 VIN and salt-jurisdiction history verified
both crossmember recall histories checked
dealer corrosion and perforation inspection documented
How to Fix
Check the VIN against 21V144000 / SR-21-001 and 20V279000 / SR-20-003. An authorized Mitsubishi dealer inspects the front crossmember and either applies the specified internal and external anti-corrosion agents or replaces the crossmember when perforation is found, free of charge. Do not buy a crossmember, control arm or generic undercoating from this page; recall eligibility and the dealer corrosion grading control the remedy.
NHTSA recall 18V070000 covers certain 2013-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles whose rear-caliper lever boots can admit water, corroding and binding the parking-brake actuator shafts so the brake may not engage or disengage fully. Recall 20V741000 adds a bounded 2016 population whose shaft coating may have peeled during assembly, enabling the same corrosion and binding risk. An improperly engaged parking brake can permit rollaway on a slope.
Common Symptoms
2013-2016 VIN and both campaign histories verified
engagement, release and rear-caliper drag checked separately
dealer corrosion and component findings documented
How to Fix
Check the VIN against 18V070000 / SR-18-002 and 20V741000 / SR-20-005. Under the applicable campaign, an authorized Mitsubishi dealer inspects and replaces the specified boot, lever, piston or caliper assembly free of charge. Do not buy a caliper, boot, lever, piston or parking-brake cable from this page; recall eligibility and the dealer inspection control the exact remedy.
The Outlander Sport is susceptible to accelerated underbody rust and corrosion, particularly in salt-belt states. The rear subframe, fuel tank straps, and brake lines are the most affected areas, with rust perforation occurring in as little as 5-7 years.
Common Symptoms
Visible rust on underbody components
Brake line corrosion
Rear subframe structural weakness
Fuel tank strap deterioration
How to Fix
Apply rust-proofing undercoating annually in salt-belt areas. Inspect the rear subframe for structural integrity during routine maintenance. Replace corroded brake lines with stainless steel or coated replacements.
NHTSA recall 16V792000 covers certain 2011-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles whose wiper-motor breathing hole can admit water from the hood-to-windshield area and cause internal motor corrosion and failure. Recall 18V103000 separately covers certain 2011-2016 vehicles whose front wiper-link ball joint can corrode, separate and make the wipers inoperative. Both conditions reduce visibility, but their populations and remedies must remain distinct.
Common Symptoms
2011-2016 VIN and both wiper recall histories verified
motor operation and link separation checked independently
recall completion and post-remedy function documented
How to Fix
Check the VIN against 16V792000 / SR-16-010 and 18V103000 / SR-18-004. An authorized Mitsubishi dealer performs the applicable free remedy: wiper-motor replacement under 16V792000, or wiper-link rod and motor-crank-arm replacement under 18V103000. Do not buy a wiper motor, linkage, crank arm or cowl part from this page; recall eligibility and the dealer inspection control the remedy.
Owners of 2015-era Outlander Sport models report repeated dead batteries, including the vehicle failing to start after sitting for a weekend and batteries needing replacement multiple times within low mileage. A parasitic electrical drain (rather than a simply weak battery) is frequently the culprit, alongside the usual battery/alternator/starter failures.
Common Symptoms
dead battery after sitting
repeated battery replacements
clicking or no crank when starting
intermittent electrical malfunctions
How to Fix
Test for a parasitic draw (disconnect the negative cable when parked; if it restarts after reconnecting, hunt the drain). Replace a weak battery or failing alternator/starter as confirmed. Some dead-battery cases on 2015 models may be addressed under warranty - ask the dealer.
AWD Outlander Sport models use a two-lobe fuel tank shaped around the rear driveline, with a main sending unit and a separate sub sending unit measuring the second lobe. Mitsubishi's ECM does not simply watch the sub sender's voltage - it runs a consumption rationality test. Mitsubishi's published service data for this generation sets DTC P2066 when fuel consumption calculated from injector operation reaches 10 litres (2.6 gallons) while the level derived from the sub fuel level sensor has changed by less than 2 litres (0.5 gallon), or when the sub sender's resistance is 13 ohms or below or 70 ohms or above (earlier calibrations used a 30-litre consumption threshold). NHTSA recall 13V112000 documents the manufacturing defect behind this on 2013 AWD cars: certain Outlander Sport AWD vehicles manufactured June 11 through December 11, 2012 were built without the fuel sending unit harness for the sub sending unit, producing a false fuel tank level reading. With the sub sender never reporting a changing level, the gauge shows far more fuel than the tank holds, and the ECM's rationality monitor flags the implausible sub-sender data. The real-world consequence is the serious one for this code family: the driver may believe fuel remains when the tank is empty, and the engine stalls while driving. Outside the recall population the same monitor is set by an aged or contaminated sub level sensor, a corroded sub-sender connector, or a failed fuel pump module assembly.
Fuel gauge reads far higher than actual fuel in tank
Engine stalls from running out of fuel while the gauge shows fuel remaining
Fuel gauge does not move as fuel is used
Low fuel warning light behaves erratically
Range-to-empty display is inaccurate
How to Fix
For any 2013 AWD Outlander Sport, check the VIN against NHTSA recall 13V112000 (Mitsubishi campaign SR-13-005) first. If the vehicle is in the population, the dealer installs the proper fuel sending unit harness free of charge, which restores the sub sender's signal and cures both the false gauge reading and the stored code; buy nothing before that check is made. If the car is outside the recall, follow Mitsubishi's published diagnostic sequence for P2066: read stored codes with the scan tool, then verify the combination meter's fuel gauge operation - Mitsubishi's flow has you condemn the ECM only after the gauge and the sub sensor check out. With the gauge exonerated, test the sub fuel level sensor through its float travel and confirm its resistance stays inside the specified band rather than sitting at or below 13 ohms or at or above 70 ohms, and inspect the sub-sender connector and the harness run along the tank for corrosion, water intrusion, spread terminals and chafe, since a poor connection produces exactly the same non-tracking signal as a dead sender. Mitsubishi lists a failed fuel pump module or sub level sensor as the most likely cause. When the sub sender or the pump module assembly is replaced, seal the tank flange with a new gasket, then clear the code and drive several gallons' worth of fuel before assuming the repair holds - the monitor cannot re-run until enough fuel has been consumed to satisfy its threshold.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
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Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
The AC compressor in the Outlander Sport frequently fails between 50,000 and 80,000 miles. The compressor clutch bearing seizes or the internal reed valves break, contaminating the AC system with metal debris.
Replace the AC compressor, receiver/drier, and expansion valve. Flush the entire system to remove metal particles. Install an inline filter on the liquid line to protect the new compressor from residual debris.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Confirmed compressor-replacement/contamination branch for 2011-2013 Outlander Sport Fitment/availability: The inspected direct U.S. page explicitly fits 2011-2013 Outlander Sport and supplies new compressor with clutch, condenser with dr…
What is the 2011-2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Accessory drive belt auto-tensioner flange cracks (belt detaches, engine stalls)?
NHTSA recall 18V069000 covers certain 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with 4B11 or 4B12 engines. The drive-belt automatic-tensioner flange may crack and let the accessory belt detach; the battery can discharge and the engine can stall. Recall 14V562000 separately cove… Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Front lower control arm / crossmember corrosion (Salt Belt states)?
Mitsubishi SR-21-001 and NHTSA recall 21V144000 cover certain 2013-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles currently or previously registered in specified road-salt jurisdictions. Insufficient front-crossmember rust protection can allow corrosion after long exposure to snowmelt water and a… Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Rear parking brake caliper corrosion (parking brake binds/won't engage)?
NHTSA recall 18V070000 covers certain 2013-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles whose rear-caliper lever boots can admit water, corroding and binding the parking-brake actuator shafts so the brake may not engage or disengage fully. Recall 20V741000 adds a bounded 2016 population whose s… Severity: high.
What is the 2019-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport CVT software defect causes engine over-rev and stall at highway speed?
Mitsubishi recall bulletin SR-22-004 and NHTSA recall 22V563000 cover certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles with a CVT and mechanical-key ignition. A temporary ignition-power-supply signal loss of at least 0.1 second can create an erroneous gear-ratio setting; above 62 mph,… Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport CVT shudder, slipping, and premature failure?
The Jatco-built CVT used across most Outlander Sport years is prone to shuddering, jerking, hesitation when shifting from park to drive/reverse, whining or whirring noise during acceleration, and slipping (engine revs without proportional acceleration). Degraded CVT fluid and bel… Repairs typically run $3,000-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport FCM-ECU Software Defect Causes Extended Automatic Braking (Recall 18V620000)?
If your 2018 Outlander Sport is equipped with the Forward Collision Mitigation system that detects pedestrians, it may be covered by NHTSA recall 18V620000. The FCM electronic control unit was programmed with incorrect software that can command braking for longer than needed -- t… Severity: high.
What is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Forward Collision Mitigation Recall: Incorrect Brake Hydraulic Unit ECU Software (Recall 18V621)?
This recall applies specifically to 2018 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with the Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system. On those cars, the software in the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit — the module that commands the brake hydraulics — may be the wrong version. Wit… Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Underbody and Subframe Rust/Corrosion?
The Outlander Sport is susceptible to accelerated underbody rust and corrosion, particularly in salt-belt states. The rear subframe, fuel tank straps, and brake lines are the most affected areas, with rust perforation occurring in as little as 5-7 years. Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport CVT Judder and Hesitation?
The Outlander Sport CVT develops a judder during low-speed acceleration and deceleration. The transmission hesitates when pulling away from stops, and the simulated shift points feel rough and inconsistent. Repairs typically run $200-$4,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Sub Fuel Sending Unit Harness Omitted at the Factory on 2013 AWD Models?
AWD Outlander Sport models use a two-lobe fuel tank shaped around the rear driveline, with a main sending unit and a separate sub sending unit measuring the second lobe. Mitsubishi's ECM does not simply watch the sub sender's voltage - it runs a consumption rationality test. Mits… Repairs typically run $0-$650. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Windshield wiper motor/linkage water intrusion and corrosion?
NHTSA recall 16V792000 covers certain 2011-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles whose wiper-motor breathing hole can admit water from the hood-to-windshield area and cause internal motor corrosion and failure. Recall 18V103000 separately covers certain 2011-2016 vehicles whose front wip… Severity: medium.
What is the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Battery drain / dead battery and no-start?
Owners of 2015-era Outlander Sport models report repeated dead batteries, including the vehicle failing to start after sitting for a weekend and batteries needing replacement multiple times within low mileage. A parasitic electrical drain (rather than a simply weak battery) is fr… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport AC Compressor Premature Failure?
The AC compressor in the Outlander Sport frequently fails between 50,000 and 80,000 miles. The compressor clutch bearing seizes or the internal reed valves break, contaminating the AC system with metal debris. Repairs typically run $600-$1,400. Severity: medium.
