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Exterior Lighting Failure
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
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26 recalls, CVT shudder TSBs, and subframe corrosion: Outlander Sport owners may have California lemon law rights. Free case review — Margarian Law.
You bought a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport because it promised real-world utility — compact dimensions, available all-wheel drive, and a price point that made sense. For many owners, that promise holds. But a significant number of Outlander Sport drivers — particularly those who purchased 2011-2022 models — have found themselves in a frustrating cycle of dealer visits for the same problems: a CVT that shudders, hesitates, or fails outright; a subframe eaten through by rust while the car still looks new; and brake system recalls that stacked up year after year without a lasting fix. The Outlander Sport's fifteen-year production run in the U.S. generated 26 NHTSA recalls — an unusually dense recall record for a compact crossover — spanning brake systems, suspension, engine, electrical, and structural components. The 2015 model year alone attracted 229 NHTSA owner complaints, with CVT transmission failure as the dominant theme. Mitsubishi acknowledged the CVT defect in TSB-20-23-001 (April 2020) and issued four revisions of that bulletin through 2024, reflecting the difficulty of achieving a permanent fix. California owners facing repeat CVT repairs, unresolved brake recalls, or structural corrosion have legal options under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act — California's lemon law — that go beyond warranty coverage alone. This page documents the sourced, NHTSA-verified defect record so you can compare your own repair history against the known issues.
The issues owners report most, ranked by severity — each one verified against a cited NHTSA source.
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
fuel smell; fuel leak; reduced fuel range; fuel filler or fuel tank recall
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
A settled Margarian Law case on this exact model, published with the actual settlement math.
Open any defect for the symptoms and why it matters for a California lemon-law claim. Each is tied to a cited NHTSA source.
tail light out; exterior light warning; reduced rear visibility
Recall 12V001000 covers exterior lighting failure on 2012 Outlander Sport; non-functioning taillamps or brake lights are a safety hazard under California law. If your dealer repeatedly replaced bulbs or assemblies without permanent resolution, Song-Beverly's 'reasonable number of attempts' standard may apply even for this lower-severity defect.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TURN SIGNAL LEVER AND REPLACE IT WITH A NEW ONE FREE OF CHARGE. NO VEHICLES HAVE BEEN RETAILED TO CUSTOMERS WITH THIS POTENTIAL CONDITION, NO RECALL BULLETIN OR OWNER LETTERS WILL BE PREPARED. YOU MAY CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
fuel smell; fuel leak; reduced fuel range; fuel filler or fuel tank recall
Recall 13V112000 addresses a fuel tank or filler defect on 2013 models that could cause a fuel leak — a fire-risk defect under California law. A fuel-system recall that requires multiple repair visits, or where parts were unavailable for an extended period, supports both the repeat-repair and out-of-service prongs of Song-Beverly.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will install the proper fuel sending harness, free of charge. The recall began on April 18, 2013. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's campaign recall number is SR-13-005.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 13V116000 covers brake assist failure or unexpected braking on 2013 models — a direct safety defect. Loss of brake effectiveness at any speed is a Song-Beverly safety defect per se; a single unremedied repair attempt or extended parts wait suffices for a lemon-law evaluation.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will correct the installation of the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The recall BEGAN ON April 18, 2013. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's campaign recall number is SR-13-004.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 13V255000 covers sunroof assembly failure on 2011 models. While sunroof defects are generally Functional in severity, if the sunroof fails to seal and causes water intrusion leading to electrical damage or mold, the aggregate defect can support a Song-Beverly claim. Document every related repair order.
MMNA will notify owners and dealers will inspect the panoramic glass to see if primer was installed. If primer is not present, the glass will be reinstalled. The recall began on July 8, 2013. MMNA's recall number is SR-13-007. Customers may contact MMNA at 1-888-648-7820.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 13V300000 addresses brake system defects on 2013 Outlander Sport. Brake defects are presumptively safety-critical under Song-Beverly; if the recall repair failed to resolve the brake concern and required additional visits, those repair orders are the foundation of a lemon-law claim.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the front left strut assembly free of charge. The recall began on July 30, 2013. Owners may contact MMNA at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's recall number is SR-13-008.
airbag warning light; passenger airbag may not deploy; SRS warning; occupant detection fault
Recall 14V031000 covers airbag non-deployment or incorrect deployment on 2013 models — one of the most serious safety defects under California law. An unrepaired or partially remedied airbag recall makes every mile driven a potential Song-Beverly defect event; if parts were unavailable and the vehicle was driven unrepaired for more than 30 days, the out-of-service clock was likely running.
Mitsubishi will notify owners and dealers will inspect the wiring of the driver side seat mounted air bag and re-route the wire if necessary, free of charge. If the wire is damaged, the seat mounted airbag will be replaced, free of chagre. The recall began on February 28, 2014. Owners may contact Mi
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 14V560000 covers brake system defects on 2011 Outlander Sport. 2011 models carried multiple brake system recalls across several years; if your 2011 has been to the dealer more than twice for brake-related issues — whether under this recall or others — the aggregate repair history should be reviewed for Song-Beverly eligibility.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-14-008.
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
Recall 14V562000 addresses engine stall or power loss risk on 2011 models — a safety defect if the stall occurs at highway speed. If your 2011 Outlander Sport stalled or lost power before the recall repair was completed, or if the repair did not eliminate the stalling condition, those repair orders support a Song-Beverly claim.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the drive belt with a rubber belt. Drive pulleys that are excessively worn will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 15, 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820.
driver seat cushion loose; seat fastener recall; seat may not stay secured
Recall 14V744000 covers a seat or seat fastener defect on 2013-2015 models that could allow the seat to move unexpectedly — a crash injury risk. Seat safety recalls are taken seriously under Song-Beverly; any dealer delay beyond 30 days in completing this repair contributes to the out-of-service calculation.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt lap end attachment fastener, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-714-372-6000. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-14-011.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 15V233000 covers defroster or HVAC fan failure on 2011 models; inadequate defrosting impairs visibility in cold weather, elevating this from a pure comfort defect to a visibility concern. If the HVAC/defrost issue required multiple repair attempts, the repeat-repair standard under Song-Beverly may be met.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace a suspect blower motor, free of charge. The recall began on June 15, 2015. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-15-003.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 15V579000 covers label defects on 2011 models — typically a regulatory compliance issue rather than a safety defect. This issue alone is unlikely to support a lemon-law claim; however, when combined with other open or unresolved recalls on the same vehicle, it contributes to the overall recall non-completion history.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will install corrected certification labels, free of charge. The recall began on October 8, 2015. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-15-010.
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 16V548000 addresses CVT or powertrain control defects on 2015 models causing vehicle hesitation — a safety risk when entering traffic. This recall acknowledges Mitsubishi's awareness of the CVT defect pattern. If your 2015 Outlander Sport continued to hesitate after the recall repair, those post-repair symptoms are documented under a new repair attempt and strengthen a lemon-law claim.
Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the hose clamps, correcting their installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 15, 2016. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-16-005.
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 16V563000 covers the same CVT hesitation defect pattern as 16V548000 but for 2015-2016 model years. Multiple NHTSA complaint owners report their VINs were excluded from this recall despite identical symptoms. If your 2015-2016 Outlander Sport experienced CVT hesitation that the dealer attributed to recall conditions but the VIN was excluded, that denial itself is relevant to a Song-Beverly claim.
MMNA has notified owners, and dealers will reprogram the CVT control unit with modified software, free of charge. The recall began on August 15, 2016. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-16-006.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 16V792000 covers windshield wiper motor failure on 2011-2015 models; wiper failure in rain or snow is a visibility safety issue. If parts were unavailable and the vehicle was driven without functioning wipers for an extended period, that downtime counts toward the out-of-service calculation under Song-Beverly.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiper motor, free of charge. The manufacturer has begun the recall, but parts are not yet available; a second notice will be sent when parts are available. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 16V867000 covers hatchback/liftgate hinge failure on 2011-2012 and 2016 models; a liftgate that falls unexpectedly poses injury risk. Song-Beverly applies to safety defects even if they affect only one vehicle system; if the liftgate repair was delayed due to parts unavailability, document those dates carefully.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the lift gate supports, free of charge. The recall began on January 20, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-16-011.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 17V233000 covers door latch failure on 2016 models; a door that opens unexpectedly while driving is a direct crash-ejection risk under California and federal safety standards. This is a strong Song-Beverly defect; if the latch was not repaired promptly or required a second visit, that repair history is material.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches, free of charge. The recall began August 25, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-002.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 17V609000 covers an electrical starter relay defect on 2015-2016 models that could cause an unexpected engine start — a fire or injury risk. Electrical defects that create ignition hazards are among the most serious under Song-Beverly; an unrepaired or partially repaired starter relay recall is strong evidence for a lemon-law claim.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected relays, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2017. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-005.
engine knocking; engine stalls; sudden loss of power; check engine light; engine failure recall
Recall 18V069000 covers engine stall, power loss, or fire risk on 2011-2012 Outlander Sport — a Catastrophic-risk defect if an engine fire occurs. 2011-2012 models experienced multiple engine-related recalls over several years (14V562000, 18V069000), suggesting persistent powertrain concerns. If your vehicle stalled, lost power, or showed smoke before or after recall repairs, consult an attorney immediately.
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.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 18V070000 covers brake assist or unexpected braking defects on 2013-2016 models. The 2013-2016 Outlander Sport received multiple brake system recalls over five years — a pattern that, taken together with owner complaint volume, demonstrates persistent unresolved brake safety concerns. If your vehicle was in the shop for brakes under this or related recalls more than twice, Song-Beverly's repeat-repair standard is likely met.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear brake calipers and replace the parking brake boot and lever or the brake caliper body, as necessary. Dealers will also replace the piston assembly of the rear brake caliper. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is expec
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 18V103000 covers wiper linkage failure on 2011-2016 models; failed wipers during rain impair visibility. If the wiper linkage repair required multiple dealer visits or the part was unavailable for more than 30 days, document those dates — out-of-service time aggregates across all defects under Song-Beverly.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rod of the wiper link and the wiper motor crank arm, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 10, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-004.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 18V620000 covers an electrical system software defect on 2018 Outlander Sport that can cause drivability problems; ECU software recalls that require multiple dealer flash attempts or leave residual symptoms are a common repeat-repair scenario. If your 2018 model experienced drivability issues after this software recall was applied, retain those post-repair repair orders.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FCM-ECU software with updated software, free of charge. The recall is began October 16, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-007.
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 18V621000 covers brake system defects on 2018 Outlander Sport. 2018 was a high-complaint year for brake-related issues; if your vehicle required brake system repairs under this recall and continued to exhibit brake warning lights or reduced braking performance afterward, those post-repair symptoms support a new repair-attempt count under Song-Beverly.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will update the Hydraulic Unit-ECU software, free of charge. The recall began October 16, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-008.
warning light; recall notice; repeated dealer repair
Recall 20V279000 covers front crossmember corrosion on 2011-2016 models — structural failure is a safety defect regardless of mileage. If your vehicle's crossmember replacement has not been completed, or if corrosion was found to exceed bulletin criteria and the dealer declined to replace, that unremedied safety defect is actionable under Song-Beverly. Out-of-service time waiting for crossmember parts also counts toward the 30-day threshold.
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 A
brake pedal problem; reduced braking; unexpected braking; brake warning light
Recall 20V741000 covers brake system defects on 2016 Outlander Sport. 2016 models received three separate brake-related recalls — a pattern that demonstrates ongoing, unresolved brake system deficiencies. Owners of 2016 models with multiple brake repair visits should have their complete repair-order history reviewed for Song-Beverly eligibility.
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear brake caliper assemblies, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 4, 2021. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-005.
front suspension noise; stabilizer bar loose; vehicle pulls or clunks
Recall 21V144000 covers suspension fastener failure on 2013-2015 models — a fastener that fails can cause loss of vehicle control at speed. If the recall repair was delayed due to part availability or required a return visit, document all repair orders. Combined with brake and other suspension-adjacent recalls on these model years, a multi-defect Song-Beverly claim may be appropriate.
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, free of charge. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888
transmission shifts unexpectedly; hesitation; harsh shift; transmission warning
Recall 22V563000 covers CVT TCM calibration defects on 2019-2022 models that can cause unexpected deceleration — a crash risk at highway speed. This recall targets the same CVT-8 transmission family addressed in TSB-20-23-001 (iss-27); if your 2019-2022 model continues to shudder, hesitate, or overheat after the recall repair, those post-repair symptoms open a new repair-attempt count under Song-Beverly and may also be addressed under the TSB pathway.
Dealers will update the CVT-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-22-004.
Transmission shudder or vibration at 10-40 mph; engine RPM surge or flare at highway speed; hesitation or no acceleration from a stop; 'Transmission Service Required' warning; 'Slow – Transmission Overheat' message; jerking, slipping, or lurching under light throttle; CVT replacement required before 60,000 miles
Multiple dealer visits for CVT shudder/hesitation with temporary relief followed by return of symptoms is a classic Song-Beverly repeat-repair pattern. Mitsubishi's four TSB revisions over four years (2020-2024) show manufacturer awareness without a permanent fix — a factor courts weigh in willfulness. If the vehicle spent more than 30 cumulative days out of service for CVT repairs during the warranty period, a buyback or replacement claim may be viable.
Replace CVT secondary control valve assembly per TSB-20-23-001RV4 (2024); if shudder/surge persists, complete CVT replacement ($6,000-$9,000 out of warranty). Recall 22V563000 addresses a narrower TCM calibration issue for 2019-2022 models but does not replace the valve assembly.
Oil residue on top of engine or in engine bay; burning oil smell from engine compartment; oil level dropping between scheduled changes; visible oil seepage at valve cover seam; check engine light in some cases
An oil leak requiring multiple repair attempts — particularly if the first gasket replacement fails to seal — can satisfy Song-Beverly's 'reasonable number of attempts' threshold for the same defect. Owners should retain every repair order showing the oil leak diagnosis to establish the repair history needed for a lemon-law evaluation.
Replace valve cover gasket per TSB-21-13-001 (April 2021) using revised installation procedure from TSB-23-11-001 (January 2023). Dealer may need to perform second visit if first replacement does not seal correctly.
Rust or perforation visible on front crossmember (subframe) below AC condenser drain; vehicle fails state safety inspection for frame integrity; clunking or suspension noise from corroded front subframe; corrosion present without proportionate rust elsewhere on vehicle
Structural corrosion that causes a vehicle to fail a state safety inspection is a safety defect under Song-Beverly. For vehicles within recall 20V279000 scope, if the repair has not been completed, the unremedied recall supports a lemon-law claim. For vehicles outside recall scope where Mitsubishi declined repair, the pattern of manufacturer awareness (TSB SR-20-003REV_2) without broader recall action may be relevant to willfulness.
Inspect crossmember per TSB SR-20-003REV_2 criteria; replace crossmember if corrosion exceeds threshold (covered under recall 20V279000 for eligible VINs). Apply anti-corrosive treatment per ATIN-20-SR-003D. Owners outside recall scope should request dealer inspection and document any denial.
Touchscreen goes blank or becomes unresponsive while driving; radio, navigation, and climate control interface lock up; screen requires hard reboot (disconnect battery) to restore; repeated freeze-ups after dealer resets; $2,000-$3,000 module replacement quoted out of warranty
Infotainment failure that requires repeated dealer visits without permanent fix — and that results in extended out-of-service time waiting for parts — contributes to both the 'reasonable number of attempts' and 'substantial impairment of use' prongs of Song-Beverly. A 6+ month repair wait (as reported in ODI 11699963) is particularly strong evidence of inability to repair in a reasonable time.
Software update per TSB-22-54-002 if applicable (2020-2022 models); full MMCS head unit replacement ($2,000-$3,000) if software update does not resolve. Dealer may not stock parts, causing extended out-of-service time.
Check engine light on; rough idle or engine shaking; DTC P030X (random or specific cylinder misfire); engine hesitation under acceleration; stalling at idle; symptoms may be confused with CVT transmission problems
If a dealer replaces only the failing coil rather than all cylinders per the TSB, the misfire will recur — creating a textbook repeat-repair scenario under Song-Beverly. Owners should confirm the repair order specifies replacement of all coils with 'countermeasure parts' per TSB-22-16-001; a single-coil replacement that leads to a second visit satisfies the repeat-repair standard.
Replace all ignition coils (all cylinders) with updated countermeasure parts per TSB-22-16-001REV. Check VIN cutoff per November 2023 revision. Replacing only the misfiring coil is insufficient per the bulletin.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with continuously variable transmissions and mechanical key ignition systems. A software error in the transmission control unit (CVT-ECU) may incorrectly reduce the transmission gear ratio at high speeds, which can result in an engine stall.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles originally sold, 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.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2016 Outlander and Outlander Sport vehicles. The rust prevention coating on the rear brake operating shafts could have been peeled off during the assembly process. As a result, water entering the rear brake caliper boot may cause the parking brake operating shafts to corrode and possibly bind.
remedy available
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.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Outlander Sport, 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross, and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system that detects pedestrians. Due to incorrect software, the FCM-ECU (Electronic Control Unit) may apply braking for longer than needed, even after a pedestrian is no longer detected.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system and 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross vehicles and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system and/or an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system. The software for the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may be incorrect, possibly preventing the intervention of a safety system such as automatic emergency braking, Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), or the Brake Auto Hold (BAH) function when any of these systems are in use.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2011-2016 Outlander Sport 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.
remedy available
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.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Outlander and 2013-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles. Water may enter the rear brake calipers causing the parking brake actuator shafts to corrode and possibly bind.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Outlander, 2015-2016 Lancer and Outlander Sport, and 2015 Lancer Evolution vehicles. These vehicles may have defective relays that can result in an engine stall, reduced engine power or the engine overheating.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2016 Outlander and Outlander Sport vehicles. The inside door latch mechanisms may not latch securely in high temperatures, allowing the doors to open while vehicle is in motion.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured August 26, 2010, to June 1, 2012, and 2016 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured January 11, 2016, to July 8, 2016. The lift gate support outer tube on the affected vehicles may have insufficient anti-corrosion treatment that can allow the outer tube to corrode due to salt and water penetration.
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Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured August 26, 2010, to January 5, 2015. 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.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Outlander Sport vehicles and 2016 Outlander and Lancer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a constant velocity transmission (CVT) that, in certain driving conditions, may cause a delay in the vehicle accelerating.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured June 25, 2014, through November 25, 2015 and equipped with a 2.0L engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). During assembly, a clamp for a CVT hose may not have been properly secured, allowing the hose to detach and leak transmission fluid.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured on December 3, 2010. The affected vehicles are equipped with incorrect certification labels that were installed during manufacturing. The incorrect labels do not have the correct vehicle identification numbers (VIN) printed on the label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Lancer vehicles manufactured March 16, 2009, to March 30, 2011, 2010-2011 Lancer Sportback vehicles manufactured June 17, 2009, to December 1, 2010, 2010-2011 Lancer Evolution vehicles manufactured July 14, 2009, to January 7, 2011, 2009-2011 Outlander vehicles manufactured February 10, 2009, to June 22, 2011, and 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured August 26, 2010, to November 19, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the blower motor may fail.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured July 20, 2012, to July 23, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the front passenger seat belt lap end attachment fastener may not be torqued to specification, and the fastener may loosen with time.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured on September 3, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the switch sleeve in the brake booster may crack and prevent the brake pedal from returning properly.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Lancer, Lancer Evolution, and Outlander; 2009-2011 Lancer Sportback, Lancer Rilliart, and Lancer Sportback Ralliart; and 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles. The affected vehicles, manufactured with 4B1 engines, have an engine pulley and belt arrangement for turning the alternator, the cooling fan and the power steering pump (if equipped). These pulleys may experience unusual wear and allow for belt detachment.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured July 20, 2012, through May 29, 2013 and equipped with leather seats. In the affected vehicles, the driver side seat mounted air bag wiring may have been improperly routed during the leather seat cover installation process.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured January 17, 2013, through January 25, 2013. The stabilizer link bracket on the left front strut was improperly welded. As a result, the link may detach and cause damage to the tire and/or brake hose.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2011 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured August 26, 2010, through March 29, 2011. The panoramic glass roof may have been installed without primer being applied before the adhesive.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport AWD vehicles manufactured June 11, 2012, through December 11, 2012. These vehicles may have been built without a fuel sending unit harness for the sub-sending unit. This may result in a false fuel tank level reading.
remedy available
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured June 11, 2012, through September 11, 2012. These vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment," and FMVSS number 114, "Theft Protection." The brake stop lamps may illuminate continuously or intermittently. The shift lever could also be moved out of Park without depressing the brake pedal.
remedy available
MITSUBISHI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 OUTLANDER SPORT VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 9, 2011, THROUGH DECEMBER 16, 2011. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE TURN SIGNAL LEVERS IN THE VEHICLE WERE NOT MANUFACTURED CORRECTLY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN THE AUTO-CANCEL FUNCTION OF THE TURN SIGNAL BECOMING INOPERATIVE.
Every item below comes from this vehicle's documented defects. The more you recognize, the more a free case review is worth your time.
California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (Cal. Civ. Code §1790 et seq.) may entitle you to a vehicle repurchase, replacement, or cash compensation if your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a warranty defect that the manufacturer or its dealer has been unable to repair after a reasonable number of attempts during the warranty period. For the Outlander Sport, the most relevant defects for lemon-law purposes are: (1) CVT shudder or failure — a TSB-acknowledged defect with four bulletin revisions, indicating persistent inability to achieve a permanent fix; (2) brake system defects covered by multiple NHTSA recalls on 2011-2018 models; (3) front crossmember corrosion covered by recall 20V279000 on 2011-2016 models; and (4) any defect where the vehicle was out of service at a dealer for more than 30 cumulative days during the warranty period, regardless of whether the same defect was repaired repeatedly. Under Song-Beverly, you may qualify for relief if (a) the same defect was subject to repair two or more times for safety defects, or four or more times for other defects; or (b) the vehicle was out of service for more than 30 cumulative days for any warranty defect(s). You are also entitled to a civil penalty of up to two times actual damages if the manufacturer's failure to repurchase was willful. Mitsubishi's multi-year pattern of TSB revisions without a permanent CVT fix is a factor relevant to willfulness. This is general legal information, not advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by reading it. Eligibility depends on your specific repair history, warranty coverage, and the facts of your case. California law as of June 2026.
“Could not duplicate” doesn't mean the defect isn't real. Here's exactly what to do to protect a potential California lemon-law claim.
Document the moment it happens. Photos, video, and screenshots of any warning lights — with the date and the mileage.
Get a repair order every visit — even “found nothing.” That paperwork is the foundation of a claim.
Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Note any recall that has no available remedy yet.
Track your out-of-service days. California law counts the cumulative days your vehicle spends in the shop.
Keep loaner & rental records. Alternate-transport paperwork during long repairs matters.
Save everything in one place. Symptoms, dates, repair orders, and every repeat visit — the intermittent ones especially.
1. Document every symptom before the visit. Record a short video with your phone of the shudder, hesitation, or warning light while it is happening. Timestamp matters — courts look at contemporaneous evidence. Send the video to yourself by text or email so the timestamp is preserved on a server, not just your camera roll.
2. Describe the symptom in writing on the repair order. When you drop off the vehicle, insist the service advisor write your exact complaint on the repair order — 'transmission shudder at 20 mph under light acceleration' — not a vague paraphrase. If you say 'shaking' and the tech checks for wheel balance, the repair order may come back 'no defect found' for the wrong problem.
3. Ask for the DTC codes and freeze-frame data before any reset. If the check engine or transmission light is on, the technician can read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and freeze-frame sensor data before clearing them. Request a printout. The CVT's TCU stores fault history that the TSB diagnostic process requires.
4. Request a road test with you present. The shudder on the CVT-8 typically appears at 10-40 mph under light throttle — not at idle or on a lift. Ask to accompany the technician on the road test so you can point out the exact speed range and throttle input that triggers the symptom.
5. If the dealer says 'normal operation,' ask them to document it. 'Normal operation' on a written repair order is a specific claim — and one that can be challenged with TSB-20-23-001's description of a known defect. Ask the service manager to sign the repair order stating the symptom is normal per manufacturer specifications.
6. Cite the applicable TSB. TSB-20-23-001REV (and its revisions through 2024) explicitly describes the shudder/surge condition and the corrective action. You can reference it by number. If the dealer is unaware of the bulletin, that is itself a warranty-compliance issue.
7. Keep every repair order. California's Song-Beverly Act calculates 'reasonable number of attempts' from your repair-order paper trail. Even a visit where the dealer finds nothing wrong counts as an attempt for the same reported symptom. Never let a dealer 'no-charge' you without generating a repair order — a visit with no paperwork is a visit that doesn't exist for lemon-law purposes.
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport's NHTSA recall record — 26 campaigns across fifteen model years — is one of the densest in its class for a vehicle of this price range. The CVT defect, acknowledged by Mitsubishi in TSB-20-23-001 and revised four times through 2024, is particularly telling: four iterations of a fix for the same hydraulic pressure problem suggests the original remedy was inadequate. For owners who have been through multiple CVT repairs, the TSB history is direct evidence of manufacturer awareness. California's lemon law was built for exactly this scenario — a known defect, multiple repair attempts, and no permanent resolution.
— The Margarian Law team
If your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has been to the dealer two or more times for CVT shudder, hesitation, or failure — or if it has been out of service for brake, structural, or engine repairs for more than 30 cumulative days — you may have options under California's lemon law. Margarian Law has handled thousands of lemon-law cases and offers a free case review with no obligation. Your repair orders tell the story.
A shudder or hesitation when accelerating — especially from a stop or at 10-40 mph — is the defining symptom of CVT-8 (F1CJC/W1CJC) transmission failure on 2015-2022 Outlander Sports. Mitsubishi acknowledged the defect in TSB-20-23-001 (April 2020), describing 'poor reaction of the hydraulic pressure circuit.' The TSB was revised four times through 2024, and recall 22V563000 addressed a related TCM calibration issue on 2019-2022 models. If your vehicle shudders after the recall or TSB repair, document a new repair-order visit — California's lemon law counts each attempt separately.
Partially. NHTSA recall 22V563000 (campaign iss-26) covers 2019-2022 Outlander Sports with a CVT TCM calibration defect that can cause unexpected deceleration. Separately, Mitsubishi issued TSB-20-23-001 (revised four times through 2024) for CVT shudder/surge on 2015-2022 models — a TSB is a manufacturer-recognized fix directive but not a formal recall. Many 2015-2018 owners with identical symptoms fall outside the recall's VIN scope. If your dealer confirmed the shudder but your VIN was excluded from the recall, that exclusion should be documented for a lemon-law evaluation.
Yes. NHTSA recall 20V279000 (iss-23) covers front crossmember corrosion on 2011-2016 Outlander Sports. TSB SR-20-003REV_2 (August 2020) provides the inspection and replacement procedure. Owners report the AC condensate drain accelerates corrosion by dripping onto the crossmember (ODI 11244359). If your VIN is within recall scope, the crossmember replacement and anti-corrosive treatment should be covered. If your VIN was excluded but corrosion is present, document the dealer's inspection report and request written justification for the exclusion.
It may be. California's Song-Beverly Act counts each dealer visit for the same defect as a separate repair attempt. If your CVT was replaced and the shudder returned, that return visit is a second attempt — and the prior replacement is direct evidence the first repair failed. For safety defects, two failed repair attempts can support a lemon-law claim; for drivability defects, typically four attempts or 30+ cumulative out-of-service days. Mitsubishi's four TSB revisions for the CVT shudder (2020-2024) are evidence of manufacturer awareness. Bring every repair order to your case review.
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (2011-2022 U.S. models) has 26 NHTSA recall campaigns on record, covering brake systems (six recalls), engine/powertrain, airbags, suspension, structural corrosion, wiper systems, door latches, electrical, and more. The 2011-2016 model years are the most heavily recalled. NHTSA's recall list is searchable at nhtsa.gov using your VIN. California owners with open (unrepaired) recalls may have lemon-law rights if the recall repair has not been completed within 30 days of notification.
MMCS (Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System) touchscreen freezes and black-screen events are reported on 2018-2022 Outlander Sports, with some owners quoting $2,000-$3,000 for head-unit replacement (NHTSA ODI 11513600, 11699963). Mitsubishi addressed related software behavior in TSB-22-54-002 (March 2022). Ask your dealer to check whether a software update applies to your VIN. If the update does not resolve the issue, request a head-unit replacement in writing. If the repair delay exceeds 30 days — as one owner reported waiting six months for parts — that out-of-service time counts toward Song-Beverly's 30-day threshold.
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