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Model-year record

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

36

Reports to NHTSA, 2012

Safety recalls

6

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

23

EPA estimate

Known issues

Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (19% of 36 reports), followed by power train (17%).

Air Bags19% · 7 reports
Power Train17% · 6 reports
Suspension14% · 5 reports
Visibility/Wiper11% · 4 reports
Electrical System6% · 2 reports
Structure6% · 2 reports
Unknown Or Other6% · 2 reports
Visibility6% · 2 reports

+ 6 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 36 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11219713, ODI 10684164, ODI 11567379, ODI 11231431, ODI 11174579.

Individual complaint reports(36)

Showing the 36 most recent reports
Electrical SystemOct 2025 · ODI 11692172Details +

My Mitsubishi vehicle has an open recall related to a drive belt issue. Mitsubishi confirmed the recall, but the company have not completed the repair or scheduled an appointment, even after several attempts to contact them. The vehicle has stalled multiple times while driving, including on city roads. When it stalls, the check engine light comes on, and the car loses all power. I have to restart it to keep driving. This is a serious safety risk because it happens suddenly and could lead to an accident. The alternator and battery were both tested and are in good condition, so the problem appears related to the recalled belt or electrical system. The issue was confirmed by an independent mechanic, but Mitsubishi has not provided a repair or timeline. The problem continues and makes the vehicle unsafe to drive, especially in cold or highway conditions.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11692172 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2024 · ODI 11608802Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, she observed a rubbing noise emanating from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that on one of those occasions, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, while driving over bumps in the roadway the vehicle was not driving smoothly. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the drive belt was cracked on the ribs of the belt, the sway bar links, and front and rear CV boots were torn, the tie rod end replacement boots were torn, and the lower front and lower control arms, ball joints, and rear bushings were torn, the motor mount front bushings had started to tear, motor mount was torn, and the shock absorbers needed to be replaced due to rear shocks leaking and that all the listed parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,148.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11608802 at NHTSA →
SuspensionApr 2024 · ODI 11585549Details +

The vehicle has extreme rust and corrosion. Car was service under the manufacturer recall on [XXX] 2020. The subframe crossmember has rusted so bad that it is a safety hazard. On my paperwork from the dealership it stated that anti-corrosion aerosol was applied with NOX RUST 712AM. It also stated that the recall passed inspection. How is that possible and it's falling apart. The dealership it was taken to was South Suburban in Matteson, IL. Car is not safe to drive because of possibility of frame coming loose from the body of vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11585549 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJan 2024 · ODI 11567379Details +

The car's airbag system service required came on without any incidents to the car. It used to be on and off but now, it is consistently on. The seat detect very lightweight things like a book or a bag and gives the warning of seatbelt not on. The airbag system and the pressure sensor of the passenger seat is faulty. With this warning, airbags will not deploy. I saw multiple incidents with other Mitsubishi Outlander owners who have the same issue.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11567379 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingMay 2023 · ODI 11522678Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the battery warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle overheated. An independent mechanic arrived at the scene and informed the contact that the serpentine belt had detached. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred 2 more times. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V069000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11522678 at NHTSA →
SteeringApr 2023 · ODI 11516984 · crashDetails +

I was driving speed limit, on a sunny day, when my car began to veer to the left. I eased back into the right lane and suddenly the car made a quick jerk to the left; then, another to the right. I slid on the bank and missed the ditch before becoming airborne and landing in a corn field. I was able to drive to a safe location when the traction control light appeared on the dashboard.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11516984 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsDec 2022 · ODI 11497515Details +

The seat belt has started to fail. It sounds like it clicks in and the warning light turns off. Once I start to drive the seat belt will come off. This has happened approximately 5 times in the last month.

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11497515 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2022 · ODI 11464505Details +

2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT. CONSUMER WRITES SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR VEHICLE REPAIRS MADE RELATED TO SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR RECALLS 20V-279, C1614Z, AND SR-18-004REV.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11464505 at NHTSA →
SuspensionApr 2022 · ODI 11460225Details +

Lower control arm wasn't fixed it's detached its self and the belt tensioner wasn't fixed like it said it was fixed and control module needs fixed as well

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11460225 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2021 · ODI 11433279Details +

The transmission prematurely fails and begins to shine and locks up

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Sep 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11433279 at NHTSA →
StructureJul 2021 · ODI 11424791Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated upon looking under the vehicle, the contact noticed that the whole frame and upper panel were completely rusted. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 16V867000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was confirmed that the recall already had been performed prior to the contact owning the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11424791 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2021 · ODI 11386334Details +

THE VEHICLE STOPS RANDOMLY WHILE DRIVING- USUALLY WHILE GOING 60 MPH AND REDUCING THE SPEED IN THE EXPRESS WAY, IT JUST AUTOMATICALLY TURNS OFF. IT HAS ALREADY HAPPENED TO ME TWICE.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386334 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2020 · ODI 11372647Details +

THE TRANSMISSION DOES NOT CHANGE ALL THE TIME TOOK IT TO A TRANSMISSION SHOP AND SAID THEY WAS A RECALL IN 2014,15 FOR THIS PROBLEM. AND WAS SEE IF ANY OTHER 2012 HAD THE SAMD PROBLEM.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Sep 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11372647 at NHTSA →
Power TrainOct 2019 · ODI 11270402Details +

WHILE DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION CAUSES THE POWERTRAIN TO STOP WORKING MAKING THE CAR IMPOSSIBLE TO REMAIN IN MOTION. THIS WILL HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC. THE TRANSMISSION WILL HOWL AND SQUEAL RIGHT BEFORE IT NO LONGER WORKS. WAS TOLD BY MITSUBISHI THAT THE CVT TRANSMISSION WAS NOT BUILT FOR LONG DISTANCE DRIVING, TOWING(EVEN THOUGH IT IS OFFERED WITH A TOWING PACKAGE), MOUNTAINOUS DRIVING OR UPHILL ACCELERATION. THIS IS UNSAFE AS IT CAUSES A SUDDEN STOP IN HIGH SPEED TRAFFIC WITH A CAUSE FOR SERIOUS INJURY IF ANOTHER VEHICLE WERE TO HIT THE STALLED VEHICLE

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11270402 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2019 · ODI 11231431Details +

AIRBAGS NO LONGER WILL DEPLOY ACCORDING TO COLLISION REPAIR SHOP. HAD SOME HAIL DAMAGE REPAIRS AFTER THAT THE DASHBOARD LIGHT FOR AIRBAGS CAME ON THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND THEN STAYED ON PERMANENTLY. I WAS DRIVING ON A STREET AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT JUST CAME ON AND FROM THAT POINT HAS NOT WENT OFF.

Reported
Jul 2019
Incident date
Jul 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11231431 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2019 · ODI 11219713 · crash · 2 injuries · 1 deathsDetails +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 45 MPH DURING NIGHT, THE VEHICLE HIT TWO PEDESTRIANS CROSSING THE ROAD AND FATALLY INJURED ONE OF THE PEDESTRIANS. THE OTHER PASSENGER WAS BEING PUSHED IN A WHEELCHAIR AND DID SUSTAIN INJURIES BUT DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATORS. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD, WAITING FOR THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE DOCTOR INFORMED HER THAT IF SHE HAD NOT WENT TO THE HOSPITAL HER INJURIES COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 2 injuries 1 deaths
Open ODI 11219713 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2019 · ODI 11217888 · crashDetails +

MY MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT HAS A KEYLESS START. THERE IS NO MECHANISM THAT PREVENTS THE VEHICLE ACCIDENTALLY BEING TURNED OFF WHILE STILL IN DRIVE OR REVERSE. ON 5/30/19 AT APPROXIMATELY 9:20 PM, I MADE A RUN TO MY LOCAL RITE-AID. I TURNED OF THE IGNITION, BUT FORGOT TO PUT IT IN PARK. I EXITED THE STORE AFTER APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES TO FIND MY CAR MISSING FROM THE PARKING LOT. I INITIALLY THOUGHT IT HAD BEEN STOLEN. THE POLICE FOUND MY VEHICLE AFTER IT HAD ROLLED OUT OF THE PARKING LOT, INTO TRAFFIC AND ENDED UP CRASHING IN A DITCH. IT HAD TO BE HAULED OUT AND SUSTAINED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE AND MAY BE A TOTAL LOSS. I CAN ONLY BE GRATEFUL THAT IT DID NOT COLLIDE INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE,L OR HIT A PEDESTRIAN. THIS ACCIDENT COULD HAVE EASILY KILLED SOMEONE. THERE IS NO LOGICAL REASON THAT A SAFETY MECHANISM SHOULD NOT BE A STANDARD REQUIREMENT IN ALL PUSH BUTTON START VEHICLES TO PREVENT SUCH A TRAGEDY. THE CAR RENTAL I AM CURRENTLY USING IS A 2019 ESCALADE. I TESTED THE REMOTE START IN THE ESCALADE AND NO MATTER WHAT GEAR I AM IN WHEN I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, IT AUTOMATICALLY DEFAULTS TO PARK. IT CAN BE DONE AND SHOULD BE REQUIRED!

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11217888 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2019 · ODI 11174579Details +

TAKATA RECALL" WHEN I TURNED ON THE CAR THE LIGHT OF MY PANEL SHOWS "AIRBAG SERVICE NEEDED". STAY ON THE LIGHT UNTIL I TURN OFF THE CAR. I HAVE THIS PROBLEM SINCE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND OF THIS CURRENT YEARS UNTIL PRESENT TIME. I LOOKED ON ONLINE AND I FOUND A LOT OF COMPLAINTS WITH THE SAME ISSUES.

Reported
Feb 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11174579 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2018 · ODI 11124483Details +

FOLLOWING I JUST SENT TO MITSUBISHI HEADQUARTERS I SEE RECALLS FOR TRANSMISSIONS FOR MY MAKE AND MODEL AND YEAR THAT STATES TRANSMISSION FAIL PREMATURELY BETWEEN THE MILES OF 114,000! AND 179,000 AND MINE DID AT 137,000 IT IS NOW STATING FOR 4 MODEL YEARS 2 OF WHICH ARE 2011&2013. WHAT WAS THE DIFFERENCE FOR 2012 TRANSMISSION WHEN YES INDEED MY YEAR OF 2012 TRANSMISSION FAILED PREMATURELY? IT DID JUST AS YOUR RECALL STATES AND THEN WHEN I PUT IN MY VIN# I AM TOLD IT WASN'T MY SKIPPED YEAR THAT WAS PART OF THE RECALL. LATER DOWN THE ROAD MONTHS LATER I RECHECK AND MY YEAR NEWLY BECAME SKIPPED FOR THIS TRANSMISSION RECALLS. I BELIEVE THERE WAS MORE THAN ONE REASON FOR YOUR RECALL. CAN YOU DO THE RIGHT BY THE CAR I BOUGHT FROM YOU FOLKS AND REPLACE THE FAULTY TRANSMISSION THAT WAS PUT IN MY CAR? YOU: I HAVE A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. I BROKE DOWN ON THE INTERSTATE AND HAD MY CAR TOWED TO THE MITSUBISHI DEALER AND THEIR SERVICE DEPT SAID MY TRANSMISSION IS SHOT DUE TO A SECONDARY CODE THAT THE CVT HAS NON OPERATIONAL PRESSURE WITH AN INTERNAL WEAK OIL PUMP WHICH CAUSED THE FAILURE. AND IT WOULD BE 7,500$ JUST FOR A NEW TRANSMISSION AND AN ADDITIONAL 800$ TO PUT IT IN. I BELIEVE THERE WAS A RECALL SKIPPING MY YEAR CAR BEING A 2012 OUTLANDER. I BOUGHT IT NEW AND HAVE ALWAYS HAD DIFFERENT PROBLEMS WITH IT. ONE OF WHICH BACK IN 2016 THE PINION SEAL FOR THE TRANSFER CASE WAS FAULTY AND IT TOOK ME TO DEMAND CHECKING WHY I WAS GETTING A LEAK OF OIL LEFT ON MY CLEAN GARAGE FLOOR. I BRING THAT UP AS TO COULD THIS BE ONE OF THE CAUSES OF TRANSMISSION FAILURE? I DID HAVE IT REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY WHICH NEVER WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF I DIDN'T NOTICE THE LEAK MYSELF. WHILE I AM AT IT MY HEAT AND AC HAVE BEEN BARELY BEEN ACCEPTABLE FOR KEEPING US WARM IN THE COLD WINTERS HERE AND AC NOT PERFORMING VERY WELL EITHER. MY CAR IS NOW STRANDED AT THE BURLINGTON MITSUBISHI DEALER

Reported
Sep 2018
Incident date
Sep 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11124483 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2018 · ODI 11124074Details +

TRANSMISSION IS FAILING TO CHANGE GEARS. THE CAR WON'T SHIFT THROUGH 3RD GEAR. WE WERE ON THE INTERSTATE GOING65 WHEN IT HAPPENED.

Reported
Sep 2018
Incident date
Sep 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11124074 at NHTSA →
SuspensionApr 2018 · ODI 11082555Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WOULD WOBBLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DAYTONA MITSUBISHI (LOCATED AT 510 N NOVA RD, DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32114), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SAME DEALER A FEW YEARS AGO FOR THE SAME FAILURE. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT A FLAT SPOT FROM THE TIRE CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE DEALER PERFORMED AN ALIGNMENT, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.

Reported
Apr 2018
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11082555 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesFeb 2018 · ODI 11066960Details +

THE REAR BRAKES GET SO HOT THAT WHEN THEY GET SNOW OR RAIN THEY SMOKE AND SMELL REAL BAD THAT I HAVE TO BE CAREFUL NOT TO OPEN DOORS. IT IS REAL BAD ONCE YOU STOP. I CANT DO MY TRANSPORTATION JOB BECAUSE OF IT. THE DEALER TELLS IT IS NORMAL.

Reported
Feb 2018
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11066960 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJul 2017 · ODI 11006722Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V791000 (VISIBILITY) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER (LARRY JAY MITSUBISHI, 8415 SOUTH BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC 28273, (866) 237-9670) DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Jul 2017
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11006722 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2017 · ODI 10995813Details +

TRANSMISSION/ENGINE MAKES A HIGH PITCHED WHINING NOISE WHEN ACCELERATING ABOVE 2000 RPMS CURRENTLY. IT STARTED OUT ONLY DOING IT WHEN GOING UP HILL AT HIGHER RPMS BUT HAS GOTTEN WORSE. IT HAS ALSO AFFECTED THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND HAD THE LOCKS, BACKUP CAMERA, REVERSE LIGHTS ALL GOING HAYWIRE. THIS WAS WITNESSED BY MY OIL SHOP WHILE GETTING AN OIL CHANGE ON IT THE MECHANIC COULDNT GET THE VEHICLE FROM DRIVE TO PARK AMD ONCE IT DID GO IT WOULD UNLOCK FROM PARK. I WAS TOLD IT WAS SENSORS BY A MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP BUT THAT DIDNT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. IT REVS THE ENGINE IT HIGH TPMS WHILE DRIVING NOT LETTINGNIT SHIFT FROM 1ST TO 2ND AND MAKES IT SO YOU CANT GET THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD BECAUSE THE TRANSMISSION SHUTS DOWN. EVEN IN NEUTRAL THE RPMSWILL INCREASE WHEN IT DOES THIS. THIS IS A SAFTEY ISSUE WITH THIS ENGINE/TRANSMISSION IF YOU GET STUCK IN A HIGH TRAFFIC AREA AND CAN NOT GET TO A SAFE PULLOFF. IVE HAD MY KIDS IN THE CAR WHEN THIS HAS HAPPENED AND THE DEALERSHIPS (ALL 3 OF THEM) CA NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. I HAVE HAD TO MISS WORK FOR THESE APPOINTMENTS AND NOW THE WARRANTY IS EXPIRED AS I BOUGHT IT USED AND CAN NOT AFFORD TO REPLACE A TRANSMISSION OR ENGINE AND BEING THIS IS MY ONLY VEHICLE AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE WHILE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY AND SEEING OTHERS COMPLAINING OF THE SAME THINGS WITH THERE VEHICLES IT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND CORRECTED. IT ALSO SMELLS LIKE RUBBER OR ELECTRICAL BURNING WHEN THIS HAPPENS.

Reported
Jun 2017
Incident date
Jun 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10995813 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2017 · ODI 10980029Details +

I HAVE A RECALL # 16V791, AND NOTHING HAPPEN FOR FIX THE PROBLEM

Reported
Apr 2017
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10980029 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperMar 2017 · ODI 10959748Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V791000 (VISIBILITY); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Reported
Mar 2017
Incident date
Mar 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10959748 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperFeb 2017 · ODI 10956653Details +

I DONT FIND ANY CUSTOMER SERVICE FOR MY RECALL FOR THE BODY PIECE BETWEEN THE HOOD AND WINDSHIELD MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER

Reported
Feb 2017
Incident date
Dec 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10956653 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2016 · ODI 10925524Details +

TAKATA RECALL WHEN DRIVING MY VEHICLE MAKES A WINING SOUND FROM THE ENGINE IN THE VEHICLE WHEN I AM DRIVING. SECOND PROBLEM IS THE MY WINDHIELD WIPER NO LONGER HOLD WATER AND IT IS LEAKING OUT COMPLETELY. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WORKED WHEN PURCHASED AND THE ENGINE LOUD WINING NOISE JUST STARTED IN SEPTEMBER WHEN THE WINDSHIELD STOP WORKING. THE ENGINE NOISE IS WHILE BEING DRIVEN. THE WIPER JUST STARTED LEAKING IT HAS A HOLD IN THE RESERVER I BELIEVE.

Reported
Nov 2016
Incident date
Sep 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10925524 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2016 · ODI 10871234Details +

THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ON THE DASH IS ON. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND IT HAS BEEN FOUND THAT THE AIRBAG SENSOR BENEATH THE PASSENGER SEAT IS DEFECTIVE. IN ORDER TO FIX THIS PROBLEM THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SEAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND COSTS $1700. THEY ARE SAYING IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY, BUT THIS SEEMS TO A SAFETY ISSUE.

Reported
May 2016
Incident date
Apr 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10871234 at NHTSA →
SuspensionFeb 2015 · ODI 10690800Details +

SQUEAKING NOISE FROM THE FRONT SUSPENSION AND OIL LEAKAGE FROM THE FRONT LEFT STRUT, (SHOCK ABSORBER), OR DRIVER SIDE. DEALER ORDERED AND WILL REPLACE UNDER WARRANTY THE LEFT SIDE STRUT BUT REPLACING ONLY ONE SIDE IN A FRONT WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE WITH 50,638 MILES WILL CAUSE THE SUSPENSION TO RESPOND UNEVENLY OR INCORRECTLY IN WET OR HIGHWAY SPEED CONDITIONS. DEALER WILL NOT REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE ON ALLEGATIONS THAT IT HAVE NOT FAILED YET AND MY WARRANTY WILL EXPIRE AT 60,000 MILES. SHOULD THEY RESTORE THE FRONT SUSPENSION ON BOTH SIDES TO AVOID ANY POSSIBLE ACCIDENTS OR FAILURES KNOWING THAT THE STRUTS FAILED BEFORE 60,000 MILES?? THE CAR WAS FROM MY SON IN LAW AND WHEN HE MOVED TO FLORIDA I CHANGED THE OWNERSHIP AND MITSUBISHI DOWNGRADED MY WARRANTY FROM10 YEARS 100,000 MILES TO 6 YEARS 60,000.

Reported
Feb 2015
Incident date
Feb 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10690800 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2015 · ODI 10684164 · crashDetails +

I JUST HAD ACCIDENT TODAY 02/18/201. MY CAR WAS BADLY DAMAGED AND A POSSIBLE TOTAL LOSS. THE FIRST SITUATION THAT MADE ME CONCERNED ABOUT IS THE AIRBAG. THE SIDE AIRBAG ON THE PASSENGERS SIDE (FRONT AND BACK) DID NOT DEPLOY. THE IMPACT WAS ENORMOUS THAT IF MY CHILD WAS THERE I DON'T KNOW IF SHE'S STILL WITH ME. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS MIGHT HAPPEN TO THE OTHER MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT OWNER. AIRBAG OF MITSUBISHI IS SO CONCERNING. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A LAW SUIT AGAINST MITSUBISHI FOR NOT BEING SAFE FOR THE DRIVER TO DRIVE....UPDATED 03-11-15 *BF

Reported
Feb 2015
Incident date
Feb 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 10684164 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2014 · ODI 10668694Details +

MY AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. *TR

Reported
Dec 2014
Incident date
Sep 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10668694 at NHTSA →
VisibilityApr 2014 · ODI 10579398Details +

ONE DAY I NOTICED A SCREW MISSING FROM THE PIECE THAT HOLDS THE VISOR TO THE ROOF AND IT WON'T BE LONG UNTIL THE VISOR FALLS ALL TOGETHER. *JS

Reported
Apr 2014
Incident date
Jan 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10579398 at NHTSA →
VisibilityApr 2013 · ODI 10508705Details +

WHILE IN MOTION, AN ANCHORING SCREW HOLD THE PASSENGER SIDE VISOR TO THE ROOF PANEL FELL OUT INTO MY LAP. AS THE PASSENGER AT THE TIE, I CHECKED THE VISOR, NOTICING THE SCREW FELL FROM ABOVE AND NOTICED THE SECOND OF THE TWO ANCHORING SCREWS WAS NEAR FALLING OUT, ALSO. PREVIOUSLY, A SIMILAR SCREW HAD BEEN FOUND ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FLOOR AREA, BUT THE LOCATION IT CAME FROM WAS NOT APPARENT AS THE VISOR MOUNT FROM WHICH IT FELL WAS HIDDEN BY THE POSITION OF THE DRIVER SIDE VISOR. CHECKING THE DRIVER SIDE VISOR, I NOTICED THE SECOND AND LAST ANCHOR SCREW WAS ALSO VERY LOOSE AND MOSTLY OUT OF THE TIGHTENING POSITION IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN IN. I ENVISION THAT IN A CIRCUMSTANCE WHERE AN AVERAGE DRIVER DID NOT NOTICE THE ANCHOR SCREWS WERE LOOSE FROM THE VISOR MOUNT OVERHEAD, THE VISOR COULD FALL ONTO THE STEERING WHEEL OF THE VEHICLE POSSIBLY CAUSING INABILITY TO STEER THE VEHICLE OR SURPRISING THE DRIVE ENOUGH TO CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IT APPEARS THE TORQUE ON THE SCREWS WAS INCORRECT TO KEEP THEM SECURED, OR THE THREAD OF THE SCREW IS NOT CORRECT TO HOLD THEM TIGHT INTO THE VISOR MOUNTS, ALLOWING VIBRATIONS DURING NORMAL DRIVING USE TO ALLOW THE SCREWS TO BECOME LOOSE AND EVENTUALLY FALL OUT OF THE VISOR MOUNT BRACKET ALTOGETHER. I RESEATED THE SCREWS USING A SILICONE BASED GASKET SEALER TO PREVENT THE SCREWS FROM VIBRATING OUT OF THE BRACKET MOUNTS. HOWEVER, I CAN ENVISION THE SITUATION TO BE ONE THAT COULD CONTRIBUTE TO A CRASH. *TR

Reported
Apr 2013
Incident date
Apr 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10508705 at NHTSA →
WheelsFeb 2013 · ODI 10498258Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT SNOW WAS BUILDING IN THE RIMS, CAUSING THE FAILURE. THE RIMS WERE CLEANED AND THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED EACH SUBSEQUENT TIME THAT IT WOULD SNOW. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 5,400.

Reported
Feb 2013
Incident date
Nov 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10498258 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2012 · ODI 10459989Details +

I WAS DRIVING IN FREEWAY 110 WHEN THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG LOOSENED AND HANGED SEMI-OPEN. I DID NOT NOTICE IT UNTIL I GOT HOME AND A FRIEND OF MINE CAME WITH ME TO PICK UP MY SON IN SCHOOL. WHEN SHE SAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, SHE NOTICED IT AND POINTED IT OUT TO ME. I JUST GOT THIS VEHICLE A MONTH AGO BRAND NEW. I WAS LUCKY IT DID NOT DEPLOY WHILE I WAS IN THE FREEWAY BECAUSE IF IT DID IT COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE ME TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT. I FEEL THAT MITSUBISHI SHOULD INSPECT THEIR VEHICLES MORE BEFORE SELLING THEM. *TR

Reported
May 2012
Incident date
May 2012
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10459989 at NHTSA →

Recalls(6)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Steering · 14V366000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, Mitusbishi is recalling certain 2007-2012 Outlander vehicles that received replacement 6-speed automatic transmissions during servicing. The transmissions in these vehicles have insufficient clearance between the power steering pressure tube and the converter housing of the automatic transmission. As a result of the contact, the power steering pressure tube may develop a hole and leak power steering fluid.

Risk: A power steering fluid leak could result in a loss of steering assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering pressure tube and return tube, free of charge. The recall began in August 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-14-006.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Suspension · 16V458000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2002-2007 Lancer, 2004 Lancer Wagon, 2003-2006 Lancer Evolution, 2003-2006 Outlander and 2007-2013 Outlander V-6 vehicles originally sold in, or ever registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In the affected vehicles, the front lower control arms may detach due to the front cross member corroding from salt water exposure such as from road salt use.

Risk: A detached front control arm can result in the loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front cross members. Depending on the level of existing corrosion, either a sealing/anti-corrosion agent will be applied or the front cross member will be replaced with a new one that has a sealing/anti-corrosion agent applied to it. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began January 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-16-003.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Visibility · 16V791000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2007-2013 Outlander vehicles manufactured September 8, 2006, to March 29, 2013. In the affected vehicles, water may enter between the hood and windshield and cause the front wiper link ball joint to corrode, possibly resulting in the wiper link separating and the wipers becoming inoperative.

Risk: Loss of wiper function can reduce visibility and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rubber boot on the ball joint to prevent water intrusion. Additionally, they will inspect the wiper motor crank arm for excessive play, replacing it as necessary. These repairs will be done free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-16-009.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Visibility · 17V461000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2007-2013 Outlander vehicles. In the affected vehicles, water may drop between the hood and the windshield and leak into the wiper motor breathing hole. The water may cause internal corrosion of the windshield wiper motor and the possible failure of the motor.

Risk: Failure of the wiper motor can cause a loss of visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiper motor, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-003.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Engine And Engine Cooling · 18V069000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Lancer, 2008-2012 Outlander, 2010-2012 Lancer Sportback, and 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with either a 4B11 or 4B12 engine. The drive belt automatic tensioner flange may crack, allowing the accessory drive belt to detach.

Risk: If the drive belt detaches, the battery will discharge and the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the belt tensioner with one that has an improved shape, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 27, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-001.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Structure · 20V279000Details +

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Lancer, 2009-2010 Lancer Sportback, 2008-2013 Outlander, and 2011-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles originally sold in, or ever registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. The front lower control arms may detach due to the front cross member corroding from salt water exposure such as from road salt use.

Risk: A detached front control arm can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front cross members. Depending on the level of existing corrosion, either a sealing/anti-corrosion agent will be applied or the front cross member will be replaced with a new one. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-003.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Outlander 2WD2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive222825
Outlander 4WD2.4L 4-cyl4-Wheel Drive222724
Outlander 2WD3.0L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive192622
Outlander 4WD3.0L 6-cyl4-Wheel Drive192421

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

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Compare the year-by-year record

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2012 Mitsubishi Outlander: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Owners filed 36 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander?

The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (19% of complaints) and power train (17%).

How many recalls does the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander have?

6 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander, covering components such as steering. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander get?

The EPA rates the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander between 21 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.