Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid and The Best Years

Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid – Discovering the perfect SUV that meets all your needs can be quite a challenge, especially with the competitive automotive market offering a vast array of options. One such contender in the seven-seater SUV category is the Mitsubishi Outlander.

While it certainly has its strengths, Outlander has faced its fair share of hurdles when trying to keep up with its rivals.

Nevertheless, it remains a commendable choice, offering an impressive blend of features, practicality, and value.

The Mitsubishi Outlander has been a dependable companion for many drivers, providing a solid performance and a satisfying driving experience.

However, it’s essential to be aware that not all Outlander models are created equal.

Some years may have fallen short in terms of mechanical reliability and attention to detail, prompting potential buyers to exercise caution.

If you’re considering a used Mitsubishi Outlander, it’s wise to be well-informed about the specific years that are best avoided due to potential mechanical issues and reliability concerns.

We will delve into those details, along with valuable insights into Outlander’s overall performance, so you can make an informed decision when hunting for your ideal SUV.

So, let’s take a closer look at the Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid and find out how the 2022 fully remodeled version shows promise, elevating Outlander’s reputation in the SUV market.

Stay tuned to learn more about the worst years and the best options for a reliable Mitsubishi Outlander.

Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid

When it comes to purchasing a used SUV, thorough research is essential to ensure you make a sound investment.

The Mitsubishi Outlander, a popular seven-seater SUV, has been a reliable choice for many drivers.

However, not all model years are created equal, and there are certain years that you should avoid due to various reliability issues.

Let’s explore the specific years of the Mitsubishi Outlander that have experienced the most problems, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

2014 Mitsubishi Outlander – Notable Safety Concerns

The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander had a fair share of complaints, making it one of the years to avoid. According to data from CarComplaints.com, it had 79 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls, which may indicate potential issues not present in other model years.

One of the major concerns with the 2014 Outlander involved its safety equipment, particularly the airbag system.

In some instances, the airbags failed to deploy following an accident, and though there was no known recall for this issue, it’s a matter of serious concern.

Additionally, there were reports of the airbag light randomly coming on, signaling a need for service.

Seatbelt problems were also reported with the 2014 Outlander. Some owners experienced seatbelts that failed to tighten during accidents, compromising passenger safety.

Moreover, the seatbelts, particularly on the passenger’s side, had issues with retracting properly.

2015 Mitsubishi Outlander – Paint and Transmission Woes

While the 2015 Outlander isn’t the most problematic SUV in its lineup, it still has issues worth considering. CarComplaints logged 78 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls for this model year.

One of the significant problems with the 2015 Outlander involved its body integrity, specifically the chipping paint.

Owners reported frustrating instances of paint ripples and chips on their vehicles, with the chipped surfaces becoming susceptible to rusting over time.

Regrettably, this paint issue appeared to fall outside the scope of warranty coverage.

Another noteworthy concern with the 2015 Outlander was its automatic transmission.

Reports indicated that some owners heard whining noises that intensified during acceleration, while others encountered deceleration problems while driving.

Such transmission issues can lead to costly repairs and affect the overall driving experience.

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander – Numerous Complaints

For the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander, complaints were notably more extensive, making it one of the worst years to avoid. CarComplaints recorded a substantial 169 NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls, which is considerably higher than previous model years.

Automatic transmission failure was the most prominent issue plaguing the 2016 Outlander.

Owners reported hearing whining or rattling noises from the engine bay, with some encountering a ‘transmission overheating’ warning on the dashboard.

The recommended solution for this problem was often to replace the entire transmission, resulting in considerable expenses for affected owners.

Another recurrent issue was related to body paint. Dissatisfied owners reported that the paint was prone to chipping and scratching, indicating a potential lack of durability in the paint job.

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander – Engine Recall and Bluetooth Connectivity

While the 2017 Outlander showed some improvement in comparison to its predecessors, it still had its share of issues. CarComplaints data revealed 76 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls for this model year.

A significant cause for concern was the engine recall, which impacted specific 2015-2017 Outlander models.

The recall was due to defective relays, leading to various engine issues such as stalling, reduced engine power, and overheating. Engine stalling can increase the risk of accidents significantly, making this recall a top priority for potential buyers.

Additionally, several owners reported erratic Bluetooth connectivity with the 2017 Outlander.

The Bluetooth system experienced spotty connection quality and, in some cases, refused to connect altogether, affecting the overall driving experience.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander – Premature Brake Wear and Electrical Issues

The 2018 Outlander, while having fewer NHTSA complaints and recalls than the 2016 model, still had significant problems that make it one of the years to avoid.

One of the top complaints with the 2018 Outlander was the premature wear of the brakes.

Numerous owners reported that their brakes started to wear out much sooner than expected, often within months of purchasing the vehicle.

The quality of the brake pads appeared to be the main culprit, leading to an annoying and potentially costly issue for owners.

Another troubling concern was related to electrical issues that affected the starting and power supply of the vehicle.

Experts identified a defective alternator as the likely cause, leading to the car’s inability to produce electricity and charge the battery properly.

Mitsubishi Outlander Best Years

Once a prominent player in the Japanese automotive industry, Mitsubishi has maintained its legacy as a solid and dependable car brand over the years.

Among its lineup, the Mitsubishi Outlander, a three-row SUV, has stood out as one of the best-selling models in North America, solidifying Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability.

If you’re in the market for a used SUV, the Mitsubishi Outlander deserves a place on your shortlist.

However, it’s crucial to be aware that not all Outlander model years are equally reliable.

We’ll walk you through various Outlander generations to help you determine the most trustworthy options when considering a used Mitsubishi Outlander.

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander – Reliable and Affordable

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander, although an older model, remains an excellent choice for buyers seeking a used SUV with a blend of reliability and affordability.

While some complaints mention squeaking seats, this issue isn’t prevalent and can often be addressed with simple maintenance.

Additionally, there was a report of the rear hatch refusing to open, but this appears to be an isolated incident rather than a widespread problem.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander – Value-Packed and Dependable

Moving up slightly in the model year, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander continues to offer excellent value for used car shoppers.

With a price range of $7,700 to $15,000, this Outlander model presents a great opportunity to own a reliable SUV without breaking the bank.

Its track record indicates minimal reliability issues, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

2003 Mitsubishi Outlander – A Reliable Older Option

For those seeking an even more budget-friendly choice, the 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander can be an appealing deal when found in well-maintained condition.

It’s important to note that CarComplaints.com listed over 100 complaints and six recalls for this model year.

The recalls were mainly related to a detached front control arm due to corrosion and non-standard airbags.

Despite these issues, many owners have reported putting 100,000 to 200,000+ miles on their Outlanders, attesting to their long-lasting reliability.

However, be cautious of potential faults in the A/C system’s compressors, which could be a notable area of concern.

2005-2006 Mitsubishi Outlander – First-Gen Gems

The last two first-generation Outlander models, the 2005 and 2006 versions, are also worth considering for their reliability.

The 2005 Outlander recorded only 27 NHTSA complaints and a single recall regarding the aforementioned corroded front control arm.

While there were some engine-related complaints, they were relatively minor in nature.

Similarly, the 2006 Outlander received only a few complaints and the same control arm recall. If you come across reasonably priced units of these models, they should definitely be on your radar for a reliable used SUV option.

Mitsubishi Outlander Problems

The Mitsubishi Outlander, a popular crossover SUV, has gained recognition for its practicality and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its share of problems.

In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the common Mitsubishi Outlander problems reported across various model years.

1. Paint Chipping in Multiple Model Years

The problem of paint chipping is not exclusive to the 2014 Outlander; it has also been observed in the 2015 and 2016 models.

In these years, the paint chipping may occur even earlier, sometimes as early as 10,000 miles.

Prospective buyers and current owners should pay close attention to the paint coat when inspecting Outlanders from these specific years.

2. Premature Brake Wear in the 2018 Model

One of the more concerning Mitsubishi Outlander problems is the issue of premature brake wear, predominantly found in the 2018 model year.

Owners have reported brakes wearing out as early as 23,000 miles on average.

Considering the direct impact on the vehicle’s braking capacity, this problem can pose safety risks.

Rectifying the issue can cost around $600, making it a considerable expense for a problem that occurs quite frequently.

If you plan to drive long distances in your crossover, closely inspect the brakes to ensure they are in good condition.

3. Coil Springs Cracking in the 2007 Model

The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander has garnered attention for its coil springs cracking.

Complaints related to coil springs, front suspension, and front wheel bearings have been recorded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The coil springs in these vehicles may develop cracks after several years of usage.

Addressing this issue involves replacing the springs, typically at around 64,000 miles.

4. Outlander PHEV Battery Overheating

A unique problem that affected certain Outlanders equipped with batteries, specifically the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) models, was battery overheating.

In some cases, the batteries in Outlander PHEVs charged and parked in Yokohama, Japan, were found to overheat and melt.

While a recall was not announced, Mitsubishi advised approximately 4,000 Outlander PHEV customers to use the gasoline-only model. Production was halted until the issue was resolved.

It is important to note that this issue surfaced before the Outlander PHEV models became available in the US, making it unlikely for US-based customers to encounter this problem.

5. Tech Features Malfunctioning in the 2017 Model

The 2017 Outlander experienced some tech-related problems that included malfunctioning Bluetooth, glitchy Android Auto interface, faulty driver assistance camera, noisy park assist system, and a vibrating dashboard while driving.

Additionally, the same seat belt issue previously mentioned also appeared in the 2017 model.

While these problems may not be considered severe, they can accumulate and lead to a frustrating ownership experience.

It is advisable to thoroughly test and ensure the proper functioning of these systems before purchasing a 2017 Outlander.

6. Car Not Turning Over in the 2018 Model

Some 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander models have faced issues preventing the car from turning over.

Electrical malfunctions may result in a complete loss of power, leaving the vehicle inoperable. This problem can manifest quite early in the vehicle’s life, even as early as 12,000 miles.

7. Automatic Cruise Control Disengagement

Certain Outlander owners have reported an automatic cruise control disengagement issue while driving on the highway.

The cruise control may unexpectedly disengage, leading to a sudden deceleration of the vehicle. Drivers must regain control immediately to avoid potential accidents.

Are Mitsubishi Outlanders reliable cars?

Yes, overall, the Mitsubishi Outlander is considered very reliable, with a reliability rating of 83 out of 100. Compared to other cars, this rating is above average, as the average overall rating for comparison is 57.

Are Outlanders expensive to fix?

No, the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mitsubishi Outlander is relatively affordable at $519. This cost is lower than the average for compact SUVs, which is $521, and significantly lower than the average for all vehicle models, which is $652.

Do Outlanders hold their value?

Yes, the Mitsubishi Outlander demonstrates a good depreciation rate compared to other popular vehicles on the market. After five years, the Outlander depreciates by about 30%. For example, a new model priced at $35,368 would be expected to retain approximately $24,379 in value after five years.

Where are Outlanders made?

The Mitsubishi Outlander is manufactured in Japan. It is worth noting that the popularity of plug-in hybrids is growing, and Outlander offers a flexible and fuel-saving option for environmentally-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

the Mitsubishi Outlander is undoubtedly a reliable and dependable crossover SUV, scoring high marks in overall reliability.

With a commendable reliability rating of 68.9 out of 100, it outperforms the average overall rating for comparison, which is 57.

Moreover, the Outlander proves to be cost-effective in terms of repairs and maintenance, with an average total annual cost of $519, making it an affordable choice for SUV owners.

For those concerned about long-term value retention, Outlander showcases respectable depreciation rates. After five years, it typically depreciates by around 30%, ensuring that its value remains relatively strong over time.

While Outlander boasts many positive attributes, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that have surfaced in certain model years.

By understanding common problems, such as paint chipping, premature brake wear, and tech feature malfunctions, buyers can make informed decisions and opt for more reliable model years, like 2011, 2013, and early first-gen Outlanders.

The Mitsubishi Outlander proves to be a reliable and practical choice for those seeking a well-rounded and affordable SUV option.

By staying informed about the best and worst model years, buyers can confidently find a Mitsubishi Outlander that meets their needs and expectations.

Remember, when considering a used Mitsubishi Outlander, always research specific model years to avoid potential problems and ensure a smooth and satisfying ownership experience. Happy car hunting!

Related Articles: