According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander has 11 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Tailgate Gas Spring Cylinder Corrodes Internally and Can Rupture or Drop the Liftgate (Recalls 25V507 / 26V252) ($0-$400 repair), Hydraulic Unit ECU Software Defect Can Disable ABS, Stability Control and Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 18V621), Forward Collision Mitigation Software Holds Brakes Too Long (Recall 18V620000), CVT Transmission Premature Failure ($3,000-$7,000 repair), PHEV Regenerative Brake System (RBS) Fault Drops the Car into Limp Mode Mid-Descent ($150-$3,000 repair) and 6B31 3.0L V6 Uses a Timing BELT, Not a Chain — Missed Interval Destroys Later Interference Engines ($700-$5,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $7,000. DIY maintenance guides at .
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Outlander and 2023-2025 Outlander PHEV vehicles. Due to a software error in the in-vehicle infotainment system (A-IVI), the rearview camera image may freeze, or not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Campaign #25V36900002/06/2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Outlander and 2023 Outlander PHEV vehicles. Due to a software error in the in-vehicle infotainment system (A-IVI), the backup camera rearview image may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Campaign #23V34500006/06/2023
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Outlander and 2026 Outlander PHEV vehicles. Due to improper software programming, the Alliance In-Vehicle Infotainment (A-IVI) system may fail to display the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Mitsubishi Outlander problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Mitsubishi Outlander. Free, no account needed.
What are the most common Mitsubishi Outlander problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander has 11 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Tailgate Gas Spring Cylinder Corrodes Internally and Can Rupture or Drop the Liftgate (Recalls 25V507 / 26V252), Hydraulic Unit ECU Software Defect Can Disable ABS, Stability Control and Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 18V621), Forward Collision Mitigation Software Holds Brakes Too Long (Recall 18V620000). Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander reliable?
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander has 11 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Tailgate Gas Spring Cylinder Corrodes Internally and Can Rupture or Drop the Liftgate (Recalls 25V507 / 26V252) and Hydraulic Unit ECU Software Defect Can Disable ABS, Stability Control and Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 18V621) and Forward Collision Mitigation Software Holds Brakes Too Long (Recall 18V620000) and CVT Transmission Premature Failure and PHEV Regenerative Brake System (RBS) Fault Drops the Car into Limp Mode Mid-Descent and 6B31 3.0L V6 Uses a Timing BELT, Not a Chain — Missed Interval Destroys Later Interference Engines. 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 problems?
Repair costs for known Mitsubishi Outlander issues range from $0 to $7,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Tailgate Gas Spring Cylinder Corrodes Internally and Can Rupture or Drop the Liftgate (Recalls 25V507 / 26V252), typically costs $0-$400 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2014-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Tailgate Gas Spring Cylinder Corrodes Internally and Can Rupture or Drop the Liftgate (Recalls 25V507 / 26V252)?
The steel cylinder of each tailgate gas spring is protected only by a heat-shrink resin sleeve. Salt water works its way under the spring's dust cap, sits against the bare cylinder wall and corrodes it. Because the cylinder holds high-pressure gas, a corroded wall can either lose… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: high.
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.
Filter:
On the 2017-2018 Mitsubishi Outlander, mitsubishi recalled 2017-2018 Outlander models built with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and/or the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system because the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been loaded with incorrect software. On an affected Outlander, that faulty ECU software can stop a safety system from intervening when it should — automatic emergency braking, Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), or the Brake Auto Hold (BAH) function. NHTSA lists 58,916 vehicles for the campaign as a whole, which also covers other 2018 Mitsubishi models; that number is campaign-wide and is not a count of Outlanders. Because the brake and stability systems are the ones affected, NHTSA states the defect increases the risk of a crash.
Common Symptoms
Automatic emergency braking does not intervene when it should
ABS does not activate during hard or slippery-surface braking
Electronic Stability Control fails to intervene
Brake Auto Hold does not hold the vehicle as expected
How to Fix
The fix is free at any Mitsubishi dealer: the dealer reprograms the Hydraulic Unit ECU with the corrected software. Mitsubishi's number for this campaign is SR-18-008 and owner notification began October 16, 2018. If you bought the Outlander used, or aren't sure the update was ever done, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether it is still open, or call MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820.
On the 2017-2018 Mitsubishi Outlander, mitsubishi recalled 2017-2018 Outlander models built with the pedestrian-detecting Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system because of incorrect software in the FCM electronic control unit (ECU). On affected Outlanders, the FCM-ECU can keep applying the brakes for longer than the situation calls for, continuing to brake even after the pedestrian it detected is no longer there. NHTSA lists 9,166 units for the campaign as a whole, which also covers other Mitsubishi models; that figure is campaign-wide and is not a count of Outlanders. Mitsubishi's internal number for the recall is SR-18-007, and the remedy became available October 16, 2018.
Common Symptoms
Forward Collision Mitigation braking continues after the pedestrian or obstacle is gone
Unexpectedly prolonged automatic braking event
Sudden rapid deceleration, worsened if the driver adds brake pedal pressure in response
How to Fix
The fix is a free FCM-ECU software reprogram at any Mitsubishi dealer under recall 18V620000 (Mitsubishi campaign SR-18-007). No parts are replaced -- the dealer flashes updated software to the forward collision mitigation control unit. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether your Outlander is included and whether the reprogram has already been performed; if you need help, Mitsubishi customer service is at 1-888-648-7820.
On the 2014-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, the steel cylinder of each tailgate gas spring is protected only by a heat-shrink resin sleeve. Salt water works its way under the spring's dust cap, sits against the bare cylinder wall and corrodes it. Because the cylinder holds high-pressure gas, a corroded wall can either lose pressure — so the liftgate no longer holds itself up and falls on whoever is loading the cargo area — or rupture outright. Mitsubishi first recalled 91,697 vehicles in 28 salt-belt states plus DC in 2025 (25V507 / SR-25-002), then expanded the campaign nationwide in April 2026 to 108,046 vehicles after finding corrosion outside the salt belt.
Common Symptoms
Liftgate slowly drifts down or will not stay open
Liftgate falls quickly when released
Hissing from the strut when opening the tailgate
Visible rust streaks or a swollen resin sleeve on the strut cylinder
Loud bang from the rear hatch area
How to Fix
Free recall repair: the dealer replaces both left and right tailgate gas springs with revised units whose steel cylinders carry an anti-corrosion coating. Do not substitute cheap aftermarket struts on a recall-eligible car — the recall part is the corrected design. Until it is done, prop the liftgate manually rather than trusting it, and re-check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls since the covered population was expanded.
On the 2014-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander, the panoramic/power sunroof tray is not sealed — it is designed to catch water and route it out through four drain hoses, two down the A-pillars and two down the rear quarter panels. The front hoses exit behind the front inner fender liners, where road spray packs them with grit, and the tray corners collect pollen and tree debris. Once a hose blocks, the tray overflows at the corner and the water goes where it wants: down the A-pillar trim onto the front carpet, out through the headliner leaving brown stains, or into the B-pillar. Owners frequently discover it after a touch-free car wash or the first heavy rain. Because the water lands on floor-mounted electrical connectors and modules, a neglected drain turns into a much larger electrical bill.
Common Symptoms
Water dripping from the headliner or overhead console
Soaked front or rear carpet after rain or a car wash
Brown water stains spreading on the headliner
Musty smell and fogged interior glass
Water in the footwell near electrical modules
How to Fix
Do not chase it with sealant around the glass — the glass is supposed to leak. Open the roof, pour a cup of water into each tray corner and see which corner backs up. Clear the blocked hose with low-pressure compressed air or a soft weed-trimmer line fed gently from the top (never a stiff wire — the hose nipples on the tray crack). Front hoses are reached by dropping the front inner fender liner; rear hoses by pulling the cargo-area side trim. Then dry the carpet and jute padding completely, or you get mould and corroded connectors. Cleaning the drains annually is the actual prevention.
On the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander, the Jatco CVT in the Outlander is prone to premature failure, particularly under heavy loads and in hot climates. The CVT belt and pulleys wear prematurely, leading to slipping, shuddering, and eventual complete transmission failure, often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
Transmission shuddering during acceleration
Loss of power at highway speeds
Whining noise increasing with speed
CVT overheating warning
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid every 30,000 miles using Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVTF-J4. Avoid aggressive driving and towing near maximum capacity. If the CVT fails, replacement with a remanufactured unit is more cost-effective than rebuild.
On the 2014-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, the PHEV blends friction braking with motor regeneration through the RBS control unit, which cross-checks wheel speed sensors, the brake stroke sensor and the motor controllers. If any of those inputs disagrees — most commonly a failing rear wheel speed sensor, but also a dragging caliper that makes actual deceleration exceed what the system commanded — the RBS unit faults out. Owners on the PHEV forum describe the RBS warning appearing on a long descent, followed immediately by 'safe mode' with no acceleration available, sometimes accompanied by an 'EV system service required' message after running on the engine. The car still stops (friction brakes remain), but the sudden loss of drive on a grade or in traffic is the safety concern.
Common Symptoms
RBS warning light and brake system message
Vehicle drops into safe/limp mode with no acceleration
Warning appears on long downhill descents
ABS and stability control lights on simultaneously
Grabby or inconsistent brake pedal feel
How to Fix
Scan for stored chassis codes before replacing anything: an RBS complaint very often traces to one wheel speed sensor or a corroded tone ring rather than the RBS unit itself. Check for a sticking caliper on the same corner, and inspect the rear sensor harness where it flexes at the trailing arm. Replacing the offending wheel speed sensor clears the RBS fault in most reported cases. If codes point at the brake actuator or RBS ECU itself, that assembly is a dealer-level replacement and is expensive. Do not simply clear the code and drive — the fault repeats under the same conditions.
On the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander 6B31 3.0L V6, a recurring and expensive owner mistake on V6 Outlanders: buyers and even some independent shops assume a modern V6 has a timing chain, so the belt never gets changed. The 6B31 3.0L V6 fitted to the Outlander runs a rubber timing belt with a service interval around 105,000 miles. Worse, the design changed: early 2007-2009 engines used pistons with valve reliefs and are non-interference, so a snapped belt merely stranded the car, while later 6B31s are interference — a broken belt lets the pistons hit open valves and typically bends valves and damages guides. Mitsubishi enthusiast forum threads are full of owners discovering the belt only after it fails, and of 'belt or chain?' confusion threads. The 2.4L four-cylinder in the same body is chain-driven, which is exactly why the confusion persists.
Common Symptoms
Engine cranks but will not start after a bang or rattle
Sudden loss of power while driving
Rattling or squealing from the front timing cover
Rough running with multiple misfires after a timing event
Crank/cam correlation fault stored
How to Fix
Verify what your engine has before assuming: if it is the 3.0L V6, it is a belt. Replace the timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys and water pump as a kit at the specified interval (roughly 105k miles, or on age if the car is old and low-mileage — the belt degrades with time and heat cycles, not just miles). Get the previous owner's records; if there is no documented belt service and the car is near or past the interval, treat it as due. If a belt has already broken on a 2010-or-later V6, do a compression or leak-down test before spending money — bent valves usually mean cylinder head removal, and on a high-mileage car a used engine is often cheaper than the head repair.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Gates PowerGrip 6B31 timing component kit with water pump TCKWP339
OEMGates TCKWP339
page explicitly fits 2007-2020 Outlander 3.0L V6 and lists belt, tensioner, hydraulic tensioner, idler, water pump, bracket, bushing, bolt, washer and metal gasket. Confirm VIN/en
On the 2014-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander, the PHEV isolates its CHAdeMO fast-charge port from the traction pack with quick-charge contactors. An abnormal-current event during a DC fast charge session — a station that drops or spikes current, or a handshake that aborts mid-session — can weld the negative quick-charge contactor closed. Once welded, the EV-ECU can no longer prove the fast-charge circuit is isolated, so it sets P101C and throws 'EV system service required'; owners on the PHEV forum report the fault appearing immediately after a fast charge, sometimes with the charging station itself reporting 'failure to communicate with vehicle'. AC (Type 1/Type 2) charging often still works, which is what makes people mis-blame the charge point rather than the car.
Common Symptoms
'EV system service required' warning immediately after DC fast charging
CHAdeMO session aborts or never starts
Charging station shows 'failure to communicate with vehicle'
AC charging still works normally
Reduced EV range or turtle/limp mode
How to Fix
Read the code with a PHEV-capable tool — a generic OBD reader will not return P101C. Mitsubishi issued a service bulletin covering fast-charge abnormal-current detection, and in a number of cases a software update to the EV/charging control resolves the fault, so ask the dealer for the current calibration first. If the contactor is physically welded, the quick-charge contactor assembly has to be replaced by a high-voltage-qualified technician. Interim workaround owners use: charge on AC only and avoid the fast charger that triggered it.
On the 2018-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4L PHEV, the Outlander PHEV can experience accelerated battery capacity degradation and intermittent charging failures. The battery management system occasionally refuses to initiate charging or terminates sessions prematurely, particularly in extreme temperatures.
Common Symptoms
Electric range decreasing over time
Charging session failing to start
Battery temperature warning
Reduced EV mode availability in cold weather
How to Fix
Avoid frequent DC fast charging to preserve battery health. Keep the battery between 20-80% state of charge for daily use. Update the BMS software at the dealer. Have the 12V auxiliary battery tested, as a weak 12V battery can cause charging failures.
On the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander, the AC compressor in the Outlander is prone to premature failure, with the internal clutch bearing seizing or the compressor developing internal leaks. Failure typically occurs between 60,000 and 90,000 miles, leaving the vehicle without air conditioning.
Common Symptoms
AC blowing warm air
Clicking or grinding from compressor
Intermittent cooling
Refrigerant leak detected
How to Fix
Replace the AC compressor, receiver/drier, and expansion valve as a complete system. Flush the AC lines to remove debris from the failed compressor. Use the correct PAG oil specification for the replacement unit.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
UAC short A/C compressor replacement kit CK5562
OEMUAC CK 5562 (CO 29091C / EX 529498C / RD 11189C)
Confirmed-compressor replacement branch for listed 2014-2020 Outlander 2.4L 4J12 applications Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page identifies the QS90 six-groove compressor, drier and expansion-device kit for listed 2014-2020 …
On the 2014-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, the Outlander develops front suspension clunking and knocking noises over bumps and rough roads. Worn front stabilizer bar end links and strut mount bearings are the primary culprits, with noise appearing as early as 30,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
Clunking over bumps
Knocking noise during turns
Rattling from front suspension
Noise worse on rough roads
How to Fix
Replace the front stabilizer bar end links and strut mounts. Inspect the lower control arm bushings while the suspension is apart. OEM replacement parts are recommended as some aftermarket components have fitment issues.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Moog front stabilizer-bar end link K750385
OEMMoog K750385
Confirmed loose/noisy front end-link branch for 2014-2020 Outlander Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page explicitly fits 2007-2020 Outlander and identifies front Moog K750385. Apply to the card's 2014-2020 years only after iso…
Confirmed front upper-strut mount/bearing noise branch for 2014-2020 Outlander Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page explicitly fits 2014-2020 Outlander and includes the front mount and bearing. Confirm the noisy side, strut/sp…
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2022 Outlander vehicles. The commutator and wires inside the fuel pump may be fused incorrectly, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Campaign #22V02700024/01/2022
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2022 Outlander vehicles. The front and second-row passenger seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
What is the 2017-2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Hydraulic Unit ECU Software Defect Can Disable ABS, Stability Control and Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 18V621)?
Mitsubishi recalled 2017-2018 Outlander models built with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and/or the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system because the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have been loaded with incorrect software. On an affected Outlander, that faulty ECU… Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Forward Collision Mitigation Software Holds Brakes Too Long (Recall 18V620000)?
Mitsubishi recalled 2017-2018 Outlander models built with the pedestrian-detecting Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system because of incorrect software in the FCM electronic control unit (ECU). On affected Outlanders, the FCM-ECU can keep applying the brakes for longer than th… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander CVT Transmission Premature Failure?
The Jatco CVT in the Outlander is prone to premature failure, particularly under heavy loads and in hot climates. The CVT belt and pulleys wear prematurely, leading to slipping, shuddering, and eventual complete transmission failure, often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Repairs typically run $3,000-$7,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Regenerative Brake System (RBS) Fault Drops the Car into Limp Mode Mid-Descent?
The PHEV blends friction braking with motor regeneration through the RBS control unit, which cross-checks wheel speed sensors, the brake stroke sensor and the motor controllers. If any of those inputs disagrees — most commonly a failing rear wheel speed sensor, but also a draggin… Repairs typically run $150-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander 6B31 3.0L V6 Uses a Timing BELT, Not a Chain — Missed Interval Destroys Later Interference Engines?
A recurring and expensive owner mistake on V6 Outlanders: buyers and even some independent shops assume a modern V6 has a timing chain, so the belt never gets changed. The 6B31 3.0L V6 fitted to the Outlander runs a rubber timing belt with a service interval around 105,000 miles. Repairs typically run $700-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Quick-Charge (CHAdeMO) Contactor Welds Shut — DC Fast Charging Fails with P101C?
The PHEV isolates its CHAdeMO fast-charge port from the traction pack with quick-charge contactors. An abnormal-current event during a DC fast charge session — a station that drops or spikes current, or a handshake that aborts mid-session — can weld the negative quick-charge cont… Repairs typically run $150-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2018-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Battery Degradation and Charging Issues?
The Outlander PHEV can experience accelerated battery capacity degradation and intermittent charging failures. The battery management system occasionally refuses to initiate charging or terminates sessions prematurely, particularly in extreme temperatures. Repairs typically run $0-$5,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Blocked Sunroof Drain Tubes Flood the Headliner, A-Pillar and Front Footwells?
The panoramic/power sunroof tray is not sealed — it is designed to catch water and route it out through four drain hoses, two down the A-pillars and two down the rear quarter panels. The front hoses exit behind the front inner fender liners, where road spray packs them with grit,… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander AC Compressor Failure?
The AC compressor in the Outlander is prone to premature failure, with the internal clutch bearing seizing or the compressor developing internal leaks. Failure typically occurs between 60,000 and 90,000 miles, leaving the vehicle without air conditioning. Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Front Suspension Clunking and Noise?
The Outlander develops front suspension clunking and knocking noises over bumps and rough roads. Worn front stabilizer bar end links and strut mount bearings are the primary culprits, with noise appearing as early as 30,000 miles. Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: low.
