2012 Mitsubishi Outlander

Introduction of the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander:

The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, all-wheel-drive capability, and comfortable ride quality. It is offered with two engine options and two transmission choices. The SE and SEL trim levels feature a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The GT and SE V6 trim levels come with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 230 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Owners generally praise the Outlander’s value for money, practicality, and reliability. However, some have reported concerns with specific components.

Engine

2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Cylinder Head Cracking: A defect in the cylinder head can cause cracks that lead to coolant leaks and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can malfunction, leading to chain slack and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
  • Solution: Intake manifold cleaning and valve cleaning
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

3.0-liter V6 Engine

• Piston Ring Failure: Failure of the piston rings can cause excessive oil consumption and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
• Valve Seat Recession: The valve seats can recede over time, leading to decreased compression and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Resurfacing or replacement of the cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Hesitation and Jerking: The CVT may experience hesitation or jerking during acceleration or shifting.
  • Solution: Software update or CVT replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Overheating: The CVT can overheat, leading to transmission damage.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and cooler installation
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Delayed Shifting: The transmission may hesitate or delay when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change or solenoid replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Clunking Noises: Clunking noises when shifting may indicate a worn or damaged gear.**
  • Solution: Transmission repair or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearings can fail, leading to clunking or grinding noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear Suspension Sagging: The rear suspension may sag over time, affecting handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear springs or shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Electrical Short Circuits: Electrical short circuits can occur in various components, leading to electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the short circuit and repair or replacement of affected components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component affected

Exterior

• Fog Light Switch Failure: The fog light switch may fail, preventing the fog lights from turning on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fog light switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Antenna Mast Corrosion: The antenna mast can corrode over time, affecting radio signal reception.
  • Solution: Replacement of the antenna mast
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle: The dashboard may develop rattles or squeaks due to loose components.
  • Solution: Tightening or replacement of loose components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Climate Control Malfunctions: The climate control system may experience malfunctions, such as inconsistent temperature control or air flow issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component affected

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number 17V590000: Airbag module software defect that may cause airbag non-deployment in a crash
• NHTSA Campaign Number 17V664000: Fuel pump relay failure that may cause engine stalling
• NHTSA Campaign Number 20V342000: Steering knuckle corrosion that may cause loss of steering control

Summary:

The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander exhibits several common issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. While some engine issues can be severe and expensive to fix, the majority of reported problems are relatively minor and affordable to resolve. The electrical, exterior, and interior issues are less prevalent and typically less costly to address. Overall, the Outlander offers good value for money and reliability but may require occasional maintenance or repairs to address specific component failures.