Mitsubishi Outlander Common Problems and Solutions
Airbag Service Light Is On
Problem:
The airbag sensor warning light stays on.
Solution:
This needs to be addressed because an airbag fault often causes the safety system to malfunction during a collision. There are many reasons for the airbag warning light to appear, so some testing will be necessary. Start by inspecting the passenger seat occupancy sensor, as faulty sensors are common and may be causing the airbag light problem. If it is faulty, you can order a replacement from us. If the sensor is fine, then you might have a faulty airbag or software issues that require a specialist to fix.
Difficulty level
Whistling/Rattling From Engine
Problem:
There is a whistling or rattling noise coming from the engine while driving.
Solution:
In most cases, faulty pulley bearings in the gearbox cause this issue. If you order replacements from our online store, we will deliver them quickly so you can replace them. However, you should also inspect the regulator valve, which may also be faulty and require replacement.
Difficulty level
Seat Belt Malfunctioning
Problem:
The seatbelts are not functioning properly. Sometimes they won’t retract; other times, they won’t tighten. In some instances, they even get stuck, and you can’t unlock them.
Solution:
You will need to replace the entire seat belt system, including the belt itself, the locks, and the pretensioners. We have the complete seatbelt units available in stock for every seat in the Outlander, so you can have your replacements delivered directly to you.
Difficulty level
Loss of power/smoke from exhaust
Problem:
Common symptoms of turbo hose failure include: loss of power, smoke from the exhaust, and a loud whistling noise from the top of the engine. This occurs because the hose was not properly tightened at the factory.
Solution:
You should securely tighten the turbo hose to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Throttle body blocked
Problem:
The throttle body can become blocked on the first-generation Outlander. If this part gets blocked, you may notice a lack of power, poor acceleration, or rough engine idling.
Solution:
You will need to remove the throttle body and clean out the build-up. Use carb cleaner or a similar product. After cleaning and refitting, the issue should be resolved. Watch the video below to see how to do this:
Difficulty level
DPF warning light
Problem:
The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) can become blocked when you use the vehicle for short journeys around town, etc. If you only undertake short journeys, the DPF does not get hot enough and accumulates particles, leading to a blockage. The DPF warning light will appear on the dashboard.
Solution:
You will need to take the vehicle onto an open road and drive at above 2500rpm for about 10-20 minutes to allow the DPF to heat up sufficiently and burn off the unwanted particles. This should turn off the warning light on the dashboard and clear the DPF simultaneously.
Difficulty level
Engine management warning light
Problem:
One of the front oxygen sensors is known to fail on this vehicle. The Outlander has a pair of oxygen sensors at the front of the engine and another pair at the rear. It is most likely that one of the front sensors will fail. If this part has failed, the engine management warning light will appear on the dashboard, and you may also notice higher-than-usual fuel consumption.
Solution:
Run a diagnostic check so you can accurately identify which oxygen sensor is faulty. Once you've identified the faulty sensor, you'll need to fit a replacement to resolve the issue. We can assist you in finding an affordable replacement oxygen sensor.
Difficulty level
Oxygen Sensor
Bumpy Driving
Problem:
The car jolts roughly over every bump in the road. This is often accompanied by a loud noise when reversing and an unusual sound coming from the back of the car when driving forward.
Solution:
The 2004 Outlander has a weak suspension system compared to other models. As a result, drivers reaching around 65,000 miles will find they need to browse our parts list and order a replacement rear suspension system.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Detached Sunroof
Problem:
The sunroof glass has fully detached from the sunroof assembly.
Solution:
This issue has occurred frequently enough for Mitsubishi to issue a recall on 2006-2012 models of the Outlander. To fix the problem, you will need to replace the sunroof glass, which can be found on our parts list. You will also need to ensure that you use a durable bonding material to keep the sunroof glass secure and in place.
Difficulty level
Sunroof Glass
Sagging Car
Problem:
The car sags both when parked and while driving. You can also notice excessive tyre wear and hear an unusual noise coming from the front of the vehicle.
Solution:
Your coil springs have become worn, degraded, or damaged. Find a replacement coil spring from our online store and install it. Although this can be a tricky job to do yourself, it’s not as difficult as you might think, and there are plenty of guides available online.
Difficulty level
Coil Spring
Tyre Warning Light
Problem:
Your tyre warning light is on, and you're unsure why.
Solution:
This is usually caused by a broken valve stem on the tyre pressure sensors, a common problem with the 2007 Outlander. The good news is that we always stock replacement sensors, which are easy to fit yourself.
Difficulty level
Noise From Aircon
Problem:
The air conditioning unit is making considerably more noise than it should.
Solution:
This could cause an issue with your AC pump, which typically reaches the end of its lifespan at around 75,000 miles. Find a replacement AC pump from our parts list and swap out the worn one, and the noise will cease.
Difficulty level
Weak Brakes
Problem:
You need to apply increasing pressure to make the brakes engage.
Solution:
One common issue among owners of a 2018 Outlander is premature brake wear. It usually begins around 23,000 miles and mainly involves replacing the brake pads. Sometimes, you may also need to order replacement brake discs from our store.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads