2003 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander marked Mitsubishi’s entry into the compact SUV market. The North American version was only offered with a 2.4L 4G64 SOHC 16-valve inline-4 engine producing 140 hp and 147 lb-ft of torque, paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciated its affordability and cargo space, while others found the engine underpowered and reported reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L 4G64

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and wires, replace faulty ignition coils, repair vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often originating from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: If the timing belt is not replaced at the proper intervals, it can break, causing catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Check and replace transmission fluid, repair or replace faulty solenoids, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without acceleration, difficulty climbing hills, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Check and replace transmission fluid, repair or replace worn clutches, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can lead to poor handling and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings, such as control arm bushings or sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, and the car not starting.
  • Solution: Replace the failed alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, rocker panels, and other areas prone to moisture.
  • Solution: Remove rust and repaint affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander can be prone to several issues, ranging from relatively minor repairs to more significant engine and transmission problems. Engine misfires, oil leaks, and timing belt issues are common engine-related concerns. The transmission can experience rough shifting or slipping. Suspension components, electrical systems, and exterior rust can also present challenges. The severity of these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to assess its overall condition.