2020 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact crossover SUV offering seating for up to seven passengers in some configurations. It’s available with a 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT transmission, or a 3.0L V6 engine producing 224 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Outlander’s affordable price point and available third-row seating, but common complaints include lackluster fuel economy, unimpressive performance from the base engine, and a somewhat dated interior design.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report the 2.4L engine consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning light illumination and visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings can resolve the issue. A more comprehensive solution might involve replacing the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Engine

No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT Transmission (2.4L Engine)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported complete CVT failure, usually at higher mileage. Symptoms include hesitation, slipping, shuddering, and complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT transmission is generally required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (3.0L V6 Engine)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts/shocks. Symptoms include clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dead Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature battery drain and failure, even with relatively new batteries. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, especially in cold weather, and needing frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery is the first step. Investigation for parasitic drain, potentially caused by faulty modules or accessories, is necessary if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment systems freezing up, randomly rebooting, or becoming unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the infotainment unit might need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera not displaying image or displaying a distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and replace the camera, if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-existent air conditioning output.
  • Solution: Check for refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or faulty blend door actuators. Repair or replace the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has several potential issues, with the most significant concerning the CVT transmission coupled with the 2.4L engine, which is prone to failure and costly to replace. Oil consumption in the 2.4L engine is also a concern. Other issues, such as suspension wear and electrical problems, are less severe but still warrant attention. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering a used 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander.