2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality and affordability. Available engines include a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 engine producing 230 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. The 4-cylinder is paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) while the V6 is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Outlander for its available third-row seating and fuel economy (especially with the 4-cylinder), but some criticize its lackluster interior and driving dynamics.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and potentially engine knocking or damage if the issue is not addressed.
- Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and addressing any leaks or underlying issues. Some cases may require piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6
No Issues Found
Transmission
CVT (Paired with 2.4L 4-Cylinder)
- CVT Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported CVT failure, which can manifest as slipping, hesitation, jerking, or complete loss of power. Warning lights may illuminate on the dashboard.
- Solution: CVT replacement or rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.0L V6)
No Issues Found
Suspension
- Premature Wear of Rear Suspension Components
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature wear of rear suspension bushings, particularly in the lower control arms. This can lead to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings or entire control arms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
- Solution: Identifying and resolving parasitic drains, such as faulty relays, lights, or aftermarket accessories.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Windshield Wiper Motor
- Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers may stop working intermittently or completely.
- Solution: Replacement of the wiper motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$350
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rusting of the Liftgate
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop around the license plate lights and the seams of the liftgate
- Solution: Repair and repaint the liftgate, or replace the entire liftgate
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Airbag Warning Light
- Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard. Could be caused by a faulty sensor, clock spring, or wiring issue.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the airbag system, including replacement of faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls:
- 17V082000: On certain Model Year 2012-2017 Outlander, Model Year 2013-2017 Outlander Sport and Model Year 2011-2016 Lancer and Lancer Sportback vehicles, the subject vehicles may experience corrosion within the Airbag Control Unit (ACU) which, in the worst case, could result in the airbags not deploying in the event of a crash.
Summary
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander has some notable issues, with the most concerning being potential CVT failures on models equipped with the 2.4L engine. Excessive oil consumption can also be a significant issue for the 2.4L engine. Suspension wear and electrical problems are also prevalent. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase and budget for potential repairs. The severity and cost of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major repairs, so careful consideration is advised.