Likes
- Generous interior space for families
- Efficient diesel engine on offer
- Decent safety features
- Versatile driving modes
Used Mitsubishi Outlander review
2012 - 2021
Dislikes
- Infotainment feels a bit dated
- Some find the ride too firm
- Not the quietest cabin
- Some interior materials feel cheap
- The 2.0-litre petrol engine is underpowered
Stuff you should know
The Mitsubishi Outlander, offered in Australia between 2012 and 2021, underwent several changes over its lifecycle. Initially debuting as a third-generation model in 2012, it has been a popular choice for Australians seeking a reliable, mid-size SUV. This family-friendly vehicle came in several variants including ES, LS, Exceed, and from 2014 onwards, the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle).
The 2012 model arrived with standard features such as cruise control, climate control, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also offered safety features like seven airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Outlander’s 2015 facelift incorporated Mitsubishi’s ‘Dynamic Shield’ design language, which gave it a refreshed exterior. This update also saw improvements in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels, as well as the inclusion of a new continuously variable transmission (CVT).
A significant addition to the lineup was the Outlander PHEV in 2014. This plug-in hybrid variant combined a 2.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors, offering impressive fuel economy and the ability to run solely on electric power for short distances. This variant was unique in the Outlander lineup for providing a more eco-friendly alternative without sacrificing performance.
Over the years, Mitsubishi incorporated more advanced safety and technology features into the Outlander. By 2018, features like forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control became available in higher trims. The infotainment system also saw an update to incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering greater connectivity options for the driver.
In 2021, prior to the launch of the next generation, the Outlander was equipped with more refined interiors and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a multi-around monitor, especially in the Exceed variant. Throughout its nine-year span, the Outlander was offered with various powertrain options ranging from a 2.0-litre to a 2.4-litre petrol engine, and a 2.2-litre diesel engine, giving buyers an ample choice to suit their specific needs.
In 2012-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander was a versatile, mid-size SUV that evolved significantly in terms of design, performance, and technology. It stood as a strong competitor in its segment, offering multiple variants with an array of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid, that catered to a wide range of consumer needs. Its commitment to safety and technology made it a compelling option for those in the market for a well-rounded family vehicle.
What goes wrong
Exterior:
There are multiple reports of the paint being too thin resulting in chipping and peeling.
Sporadic reports of the door locks freaking out and not working.
Interior:
Some owners have mentioned excessive road and tire noise entering the cabin.
Mechanically:
Several owners have complained about shuddering and jerkiness from the CVT. Some owners have also needed a complete rebuild.
Some reports of the engine stalling or overheating.
Later model outlanders have been reported to have premature brake wear.
On earlier models, corrosion on the airflow sensor caused issues with the HVAC system.
Recalls:
- July 2013 – Mitsubishi Outlander models numbering 413 units are affected by multiple defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctions in Adaptive Cruise Control and other warning systems, as well as issues with the ETACS computer affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 3,633 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple defects including failure of the Electronic Power Steering computer, issues with Adaptive Cruise Control functioning incorrectly in tunnels, warning failures in various systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Mitigation, and Active Stability Control, and malfunctions in the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 809 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple potential defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctioning Adaptive Cruise Control, warning alarms for various systems, and issues with the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2014 – 1,626 Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander units from 2012-2013 are affected by improperly machined transfer case covers, which could lead to oil seal displacement and loss of transmission fluid, potentially resulting in gear shift failure and vehicle immobility.
- August 2014 – 18,247 Mitsubishi Outlander and Pajero units are affected by a defect in the lighting switch platform’s base structure, which could cause cracks in the soldering, leading to the potential failure of headlamps and/or turn signal lamps.
- August 2014 – 212 units of Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander, and ASX from the 2014 year range are affected by a defect in the 5M/T Selector Lever Bell Crank assembly, potentially causing disengagement of the Select Lever Pin and making gear shifting difficult or impossible.
- December 2014 – 105,237 Mitsubishi Lancer and Outlander units are affected by defects in the engine’s V-ribbed belt material, which can wear unevenly and potentially come off, leading to increased steering effort and a loss of electrical and drive power, posing a collision hazard.
- December 2014 – 8,788 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by a defect where poor conductivity can cause the brake lamp switch to malfunction and potentially prevent the gear shift lever from moving out of the parking position
- June 2016 – 55 Mitsubishi Outlander units
Exterior:
There are multiple reports of the paint being too thin resulting in chipping and peeling.
Sporadic reports of the door locks freaking out and not working.
Interior:
Some owners have mentioned excessive road and tire noise entering the cabin.
Mechanically:
Several owners have complained about shuddering and jerkiness from the CVT. Some owners have also needed a complete rebuild.
Some reports of the engine stalling or overheating.
Later model outlanders have been reported to have premature brake wear.
On earlier models, corrosion on the airflow sensor caused issues with the HVAC system.
Recalls:
- July 2013 – Mitsubishi Outlander models numbering 413 units are affected by multiple defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctions in Adaptive Cruise Control and other warning systems, as well as issues with the ETACS computer affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 3,633 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple defects including failure of the Electronic Power Steering computer, issues with Adaptive Cruise Control functioning incorrectly in tunnels, warning failures in various systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Mitigation, and Active Stability Control, and malfunctions in the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 809 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple potential defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctioning Adaptive Cruise Control, warning alarms for various systems, and issues with the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2014 – 1,626 Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander units from 2012-2013 are affected by improperly machined transfer case covers, which could lead to oil seal displacement and loss of transmission fluid, potentially resulting in gear shift failure and vehicle immobility.
- August 2014 – 18,247 Mitsubishi Outlander and Pajero units are affected by a defect in the lighting switch platform’s base structure, which could cause cracks in the soldering, leading to the potential failure of headlamps and/or turn signal lamps.
- August 2014 – 212 units of Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander, and ASX from the 2014 year range are affected by a defect in the 5M/T Selector Lever Bell Crank assembly, potentially causing disengagement of the Select Lever Pin and making gear shifting difficult or impossible.
- December 2014 – 105,237 Mitsubishi Lancer and Outlander units are affected by defects in the engine’s V-ribbed belt material, which can wear unevenly and potentially come off, leading to increased steering effort and a loss of electrical and drive power, posing a collision hazard.
- December 2014 – 8,788 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by a defect where poor conductivity can cause the brake lamp switch to malfunction and potentially prevent the gear shift lever from moving out of the parking position
- June 2016 – 55 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by a design change in the vehicle wiring harness that renders the electric trailer brake accessory harness unsuitable, causing electric trailer brakes and brake lights to malfunction.
- October 2016 – Mitsubishi CF Lancer, ZK Outlander, and XB ASX models from 2014-2016 have a fault in their continuously variable transmission (CVT) that may cause a delay in acceleration, affecting 31,965 units and potentially leading to accidents.
- May 2017 – Due to improper engine and EV software as well as spark plug specification, 1,654 Mitsubishi Outlander units (2013-2017) may experience unexpected petrol engine shutdown, limiting the vehicle to EV drive mode and increasing the risk of battery discharge and accidents.
- October 2017 – Mitsubishi Lancer, ASX, and Outlander models from 2014-2017 have a defect in the Power Relay that may cause excessive heat and result in engine stall or loss of power, affecting 48,209 units.
- April 2017 – 20,148 Mitsubishi ASX, Outlander and Outlander PHEV models from 2015-2016 are affected by a defect in the door latch assembly, which may not operate correctly under high temperatures, posing a risk of doors opening while driving.
- February 2018 – 70,795 Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander models from 2012-2016 are affected by defects in parking brake calipers and automatic adjusters, which may cause the vehicle to roll away when parked.
- October 2018 – 35,850 Mitsubishi Eclipse, ASX & Outlander models from 2016-2018 are affected by incorrect operation of the ASC safety system software, which may momentarily disable various safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Mitigation, increasing the risk of an accident.
- March 2019 – Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models from 2013-2015 have a fault in the airflow sensor within the petrol engine, affecting 155 units; failure leads to deterioration in vehicle performance, EV system warning, and can result in the car becoming inoperable.
- July 2020 – 1,948 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV units from 2019-2020 are affected due to an incorrectly assembled second-row, right-side seat belt shoulder anchorage, increasing the risk of serious injury or death in an accident.
- January 2021 – 8,847 units of Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander from the year 2016 are affected by a failure in the anti-rust coating, which may cause the parking brake shaft to rust and not engage, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement.
- August 2021 – 3,677 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV units from 2013-2020 are affected by a defect where the 12-volt AGM battery may have been replaced with a non-AGM battery, increasing the risk of hydrogen sulphide gas release and acid leakage in case of battery failure or collision.
Exterior:
There are multiple reports of the paint being too thin resulting in chipping and peeling.
Sporadic reports of the door locks freaking out and not working.
Interior:
Some owners have mentioned excessive road and tire noise entering the cabin.
Mechanically:
Several owners have complained about shuddering and jerkiness from the CVT. Some owners have also needed a complete rebuild.
Some reports of the engine stalling or overheating.
Later model outlanders have been reported to have premature brake wear.
On earlier models, corrosion on the airflow sensor caused issues with the HVAC system.
Recalls:
- July 2013 – Mitsubishi Outlander models numbering 413 units are affected by multiple defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctions in Adaptive Cruise Control and other warning systems, as well as issues with the ETACS computer affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 3,633 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple defects including failure of the Electronic Power Steering computer, issues with Adaptive Cruise Control functioning incorrectly in tunnels, warning failures in various systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Mitigation, and Active Stability Control, and malfunctions in the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2013 – 809 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by multiple potential defects including Electronic Power Steering failure, malfunctioning Adaptive Cruise Control, warning alarms for various systems, and issues with the Electronic Time and Alarm Control System affecting turn signals.
- July 2014 – 1,626 Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander units from 2012-2013 are affected by improperly machined transfer case covers, which could lead to oil seal displacement and loss of transmission fluid, potentially resulting in gear shift failure and vehicle immobility.
- August 2014 – 18,247 Mitsubishi Outlander and Pajero units are affected by a defect in the lighting switch platform’s base structure, which could cause cracks in the soldering, leading to the potential failure of headlamps and/or turn signal lamps.
- August 2014 – 212 units of Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander, and ASX from the 2014 year range are affected by a defect in the 5M/T Selector Lever Bell Crank assembly, potentially causing disengagement of the Select Lever Pin and making gear shifting difficult or impossible.
- December 2014 – 105,237 Mitsubishi Lancer and Outlander units are affected by defects in the engine’s V-ribbed belt material, which can wear unevenly and potentially come off, leading to increased steering effort and a loss of electrical and drive power, posing a collision hazard.
- December 2014 – 8,788 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by a defect where poor conductivity can cause the brake lamp switch to malfunction and potentially prevent the gear shift lever from moving out of the parking position
- June 2016 – 55 Mitsubishi Outlander units are affected by a design change in the vehicle wiring harness that renders the electric trailer brake accessory harness unsuitable, causing electric trailer brakes and brake lights to malfunction.
- October 2016 – Mitsubishi CF Lancer, ZK Outlander, and XB ASX models from 2014-2016 have a fault in their continuously variable transmission (CVT) that may cause a delay in acceleration, affecting 31,965 units and potentially leading to accidents.
- May 2017 – Due to improper engine and EV software as well as spark plug specification, 1,654 Mitsubishi Outlander units (2013-2017) may experience unexpected petrol engine shutdown, limiting the vehicle to EV drive mode and increasing the risk of battery discharge and accidents.
- October 2017 – Mitsubishi Lancer, ASX, and Outlander models from 2014-2017 have a defect in the Power Relay that may cause excessive heat and result in engine stall or loss of power, affecting 48,209 units.
- April 2017 – 20,148 Mitsubishi ASX, Outlander and Outlander PHEV models from 2015-2016 are affected by a defect in the door latch assembly, which may not operate correctly under high temperatures, posing a risk of doors opening while driving.
- February 2018 – 70,795 Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander models from 2012-2016 are affected by defects in parking brake calipers and automatic adjusters, which may cause the vehicle to roll away when parked.
- October 2018 – 35,850 Mitsubishi Eclipse, ASX & Outlander models from 2016-2018 are affected by incorrect operation of the ASC safety system software, which may momentarily disable various safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Mitigation, increasing the risk of an accident.
- March 2019 – Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV models from 2013-2015 have a fault in the airflow sensor within the petrol engine, affecting 155 units; failure leads to deterioration in vehicle performance, EV system warning, and can result in the car becoming inoperable.
- July 2020 – 1,948 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV units from 2019-2020 are affected due to an incorrectly assembled second-row, right-side seat belt shoulder anchorage, increasing the risk of serious injury or death in an accident.
- January 2021 – 8,847 units of Mitsubishi ASX and Outlander from the year 2016 are affected by a failure in the anti-rust coating, which may cause the parking brake shaft to rust and not engage, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement.
- August 2021 – 3,677 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV units from 2013-2020 are affected by a defect where the 12-volt AGM battery may have been replaced with a non-AGM battery, increasing the risk of hydrogen sulphide gas release and acid leakage in case of battery failure or collision.
Should you buy it?
Whether or not you should buy a Mitsubishi Outlander really comes down to the specific Outlander you’re looking at. The third-generation Outlander was on sale for close to 10 years, across a few facelifts, so there are plenty to choose from. That also means each individual Outlander will vary greatly.
Think of the ‘what goes wrong’ section as more of a guide of things to look out for if you’re in the market for one. Likewise, the long list of recalls can looked at in one of two ways; some see it as proof of a car’s unreliability and the attention to detail put into making it in the first place, and others see it as the manufacturer being proactive about remedying issues and no recalls could mean unaddressed issues could be lurking.
While there are a handful of reliability concerns, the Mitsubishi Outlander still offers a great package, with a variety of engines and drivetrains on offer, plus the option of seven seats, it would be difficult to find an Outlander that doesn’t suit your lifestyle.
Plus, even when new they were priced to suit a more modest budget, and the same is true on the used market. So, if you’re after a solid SUV, on a reasonably tight budget, the formula is pretty simple. Find the right combo of drivetrain, seats, and features for the right price, make sure every single recall has been seen to and PLEASE get a pre-purchase inspection carried out to make sure there
Whether or not you should buy a Mitsubishi Outlander really comes down to the specific Outlander you’re looking at. The third-generation Outlander was on sale for close to 10 years, across a few facelifts, so there are plenty to choose from. That also means each individual Outlander will vary greatly.
Think of the ‘what goes wrong’ section as more of a guide of things to look out for if you’re in the market for one. Likewise, the long list of recalls can looked at in one of two ways; some see it as proof of a car’s unreliability and the attention to detail put into making it in the first place, and others see it as the manufacturer being proactive about remedying issues and no recalls could mean unaddressed issues could be lurking.
While there are a handful of reliability concerns, the Mitsubishi Outlander still offers a great package, with a variety of engines and drivetrains on offer, plus the option of seven seats, it would be difficult to find an Outlander that doesn’t suit your lifestyle.
Plus, even when new they were priced to suit a more modest budget, and the same is true on the used market. So, if you’re after a solid SUV, on a reasonably tight budget, the formula is pretty simple. Find the right combo of drivetrain, seats, and features for the right price, make sure every single recall has been seen to and PLEASE get a pre-purchase inspection carried out to make sure there aren’t any mechanical issues lurking under the bonnet, it could be the best money you’ll spend on this car.
Should you buy it?
Whether or not you should buy a Mitsubishi Outlander really comes down to the specific Outlander you’re looking at. The third-generation Outlander was on sale for close to 10 years, across a few facelifts, so there are plenty to choose from. That also means each individual Outlander will vary greatly.
Think of the ‘what goes wrong’ section as more of a guide of things to look out for if you’re in the market for one. Likewise, the long list of recalls can looked at in one of two ways; some see it as proof of a car’s unreliability and the attention to detail put into making it in the first place, and others see it as the manufacturer being proactive about remedying issues and no recalls could mean unaddressed issues could be lurking.
While there are a handful of reliability concerns, the Mitsubishi Outlander still offers a great package, with a variety of engines and drivetrains on offer, plus the option of seven seats, it would be difficult to find an Outlander that doesn’t suit your lifestyle.
Plus, even when new they were priced to suit a more modest budget, and the same is true on the used market. So, if you’re after a solid SUV, on a reasonably tight budget, the formula is pretty simple. Find the right combo of drivetrain, seats, and features for the right price, make sure every single recall has been seen to and PLEASE get a pre-purchase inspection carried out to make sure there aren’t any mechanical issues lurking under the bonnet, it could be the best money you’ll spend on this car.
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Sep 29, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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