2010 Mitsubishi Outlander

Introduction:

The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV available with two engine and transmission options:

• 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission (168 horsepower, 167 lb-ft torque)
• 3.0L V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission (230 horsepower, 209 lb-ft torque)

Pros:

• Spacious interior
• Affordable pricing
• Good fuel economy for its class

Cons:

• Uninspired interior design
• Underpowered 2.4L engine
• Limited cargo space

Engine

2.4L 4-cylinder Engine with 6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Piston Slap:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or slapping noise at engine start-up, especially in cold weather
  • Solution: Replacement of defective pistons
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noise from the engine, especially at higher RPMs
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain and tensioners
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V-743

3.0L V6 Engine with 6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Valve Seat Recession:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, loss of power
  • Solution: Replacement of cylinder heads or engine rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V-248

Transmission

6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Transmission:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle does not accelerate properly, jerking or hesitation during gear shifts
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven tire wear, pulling to one side while driving
  • Solution: Replacement of lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminates, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Replacement of alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, clicking noise when turning the key
  • Solution: Replacement of starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion around the tailgate, especially on early models
  • Solution: Replacement of tailgate
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters do not function properly or overheat
  • Solution: Replacement of seat heater elements
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or make grinding noises
  • Solution: Replacement of window motors or switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander has a range of issues affecting the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some, such as engine problems, can be expensive to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.