2020 Mitsubishi Outlander problems
The Mitsubishi Outlander (Japanese: 三菱・アウトランダー, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Autorandā) is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors since 2001. It was originally known as the Mitsubishi Airtrek (Japanese: 三菱・エアトレック, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Eatorekku) when it was introduced in Japan.
The original Airtrek name was chosen to "describe the vehicle's ability to transport its passengers on adventure-packed journeys in a 'free-as-a-bird' manner", and was "coined from Air and Trek to express the idea of footloose, adventure-filled motoring pleasure." The Outlander nameplate which replaced it evoked a "feeling of journeying to distant, unexplored lands in search of adventure."
The second generation of the vehicle was introduced in 2006 and all markets including Japan adopted the Outlander name, although production of the older version continued in parallel. It was built on the company's GS platform, and used various engines developed by Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, and PSA Peugeot Citroën. PSA's Citroën C-Crosser and Peugeot 4007, which were manufactured by Mitsubishi in Japan, are badge engineered versions of the second generation Outlander. Global sales achieved the 1.5 million unit milestone in October 2016, 15 years after its market launch.
As part of the third generation line-up, Mitsubishi launched in January 2013 a plug-in hybrid model called Outlander PHEV. As of January 2022, global sales totaled about 300,000 units, and according to JATO Dynamics, the Outlander PHEV is the world's all-time best selling plug-in hybrid since December 2018. As of 2019, Europe is the leading market with over 126,000 units sold through January 2019, and the Outlander plug-in hybrid listed as Europe's best-selling plug-in hybrid car for five years running, 2015 to 2019.
The fourth-generation model was released 2021. Following Mitsubishi's entry to Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, the fourth-generation Outlander is based on the Rogue/X-Trail, which is built on the CMF-CD platform.
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Common 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander problems
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is related to the automatic transmission, which may fail prematurely. This problem can lead to significant repair costs and may affect the overall reliability of the vehicle.
Another issue that has been reported is related to the HVAC temperature knob, which can be hard to turn. This problem can affect the comfort of the vehicle's occupants, especially during extreme weather conditions.
The air conditioning system has also been reported to have issues, with some owners reporting that the AC is not cold due to a failed pressure sensor or other problems. This issue can affect the overall comfort and usability of the vehicle, especially during hot weather.
In addition to these issues, some owners have reported problems with the transmission sensor, which may go off without any apparent cause. In some cases, this problem may lead to the need for a new transmission, which can be a significant expense.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander uses a Nissan transmission, which has been reported to have issues in the past. Some owners have reported that the transmission in their Outlander has failed, leading to the need for costly repairs.
The engine has also been reported to have issues, although the specific nature of these problems is not clear. Some owners have reported problems with fuel consumption, which may be related to issues with the engine or other components of the vehicle.
Overall, the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has been reported to have several common problems, including issues with the automatic transmission, HVAC temperature knob, air conditioning system, transmission sensor, and engine. These issues can affect the reliability, comfort, and usability of the vehicle, and may lead to significant repair costs.
What is the common problem of Mitsubishi Outlander?
Some of the top Mitsubishi Outlander problems include premature brake wear, automatic transmission failure, and a failed blower motor.
How reliable is a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is there any recalls on a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Outlander and 2019 Outlander PHEV vehicles. The seat belt for the right side second-row seat may have been assembled incorrectly. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
What are common faults with Mitsubishi?
17 Mitsubishi Common Problems They Don't Want Us To Know
- Transmission Issues.
- AC Failure.
- DPF Issues. Looking for a Hassle-Free Mitsubishi Repair?
- Unexpected Breakdowns.
- Bad Oil Filter.
- Underbody Rust.
- Brakes Squealing and Grinding.
- Slipping & Grinding Clutch – Manuel Cars Only.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Outlander problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Lane departure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: JA4AD3A30LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The touch screen is inoperable so you can't control the radio or aspects of the car such as how the lights, wipers, maintenance, etc. are set. This is a hazardous situation. I contacted the dealer, and they knew exactly what I was referring to as they said they don't repair the system but only replace and it is $3.200. My auto was only 3 years old but had over 36,000 miles (the warranty). Why is an electrical component that controls much of the car warrantied on milage and only 36K. They know of this problem.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: JA4AZ3A39LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The touchscreen does not work. This impairs use of the hands free telephone usage, volume levels, and altering of settings. This is a known problem, and Mitsubishi has recalled it in Australia. It is unsafe for any driver to not have ready access to hands free phone usage as it is well known how often distracted driving due to phones has caused accidents.
LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
- VIN: JA4AZ3A31LZ
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Got in my car to go to work and blind spot service required light came on
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA4AD2A38LZ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. The contact stated that while crossing an intersection at 35 MPH; another vehicle ran a red light and crashed into the contact's front driver-side door. The contact was knocked across the two-lane road and hit a telephone pole on the passenger side of the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The authorities arrived on the scene and assisted the contact out of the vehicle through the passenger side of the vehicle. The contact was treated at the scene and was later taken to the emergency room for treatment. The contact was given an X-ray ,CT scan and an MRI. The contact was treated for pain and stiffness to the left side of the back, neck, elbow, and shoulder. The whereabouts of the other driver were unknown. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to two separate independent mechanics; however, the contact was unaware if the vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: JA4AZ3A39LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: In less than 60k miles since manufacture of the vehicle, the infotainment screen began to be insensitive to touch. 6k miles later it no longer works. During that time it was inconsistently working. This is a safety issue due to the driver focusing their eyes on the infotainment screen, while repeatedly pressing the same button, instead of the road. Most times, the driver had to pull over to make the change. Sometimes, due to urgency of the change, the driver had to pull over where little to no shoulder existed which could have resulted in a fatality had a vehicle struck the driver's vehicle. It has recently be learned that a standard computer mouse can be used to operate the infotainment unit. Without saying, this is completely unacceptable procedure for a moving vehicle. Mitsubishi will no do anything to honor this failure, and based on discussions in various forums, the screen dies within the first couple years of owning the vehicle. In the subject late model 2020, the screen had no longer worked by 3Q24.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-20
- VIN: JA4AZ3A34LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Touch screen radio stopped working by touch reported the problem and was told by our dealer they couldn’t fix it it had to go to another dealer. That dealer said they could fix it and sent us back by the time they had time for us the warranty was out and they want us to pay for it after only 2 years. A family member had this say issue and sued and got a settlement and radio fixed
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-03
- VIN: JA4AD2A37LZ
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: After reversing out of say the drive way or parking spot there is a thump noise after putting the car into drive and proceeding to go. I have taken it to the dealer and they state multiple people are experiencing the same thing and that they have been in contact with Mitsubishi about it and they say it is normal. I have never had this happen in any vehicle I have ever owned before and for it to be told to me that multiple people are experiencing this is not very satisfactory. And should be something they look into. Another issue I recently brought to the dealers service department is the ac has a foul odor after the change of the filters. And that it smells like stagnant water or mildew and again I was told the same thing that it is common. Why would I want to ever purchase another Mitsubishi if they are saying all this is common among their brand. Seems to me the unit collecting the fluid that then gets drained from the unit when sitting still is just collecting and going stagnant and causing the smell. I have a warranty on the vehicle however everything is a normal thing people have going on with their vehicle. Seems they don't want to put in the work until say the warranty is expired. A warranty they offer along with the extended warranty to cover bumper to bumper items I purchased. Ac problem is what it is it's not a safety concern but the thump in the tire after reversing seems like it should be a recall of something to do with the suspension and I don't think it has been investigated as it should. Who is to say I'm on the interstate driving and get in an accident that not only effects myself but others.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-05
- VIN: JA4AD3A36LZ
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The left back seat on the 2nd row rocks. I’m expecting twins and it’s not safe for the babies.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-19
- VIN: JA4J24A58LZ
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Forward collision warning light comes on with no car in front of me and car starts braking. I did see that Mitsubishi was recalling these cars with this particular problem but I have not received a recall notice.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA4AD2A38LZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was at a 24 hr storage unit. It was dim & I needed to unload from the rear hatch door so I backed to the open storage unit door in its upright position as high as I could get it & stopped at a safe distance from the doorway so the car door would not catch the storage unit door. I put the vehicle in PARK to have some lighting & double checked before I got out- gear shift securely in PARK. I opened the car's rear door & started unloading without overly disturbing the vehicle or causing any unnecessary movement. I had just turned my back to the car door to put down some boxes in the unit. As I turned back to the car to retrieve another item, I noticed movement. There was a rapid simultaneous series of events: I felt the rear hatch hit my nose, I heard a crash with shattering glass & I tried to jump clear. It was over in minutes . I was inside the storage unit and had to squeeze out to try to free the storage unit door. The door had fallen and gotten wedged between the rear frame of the car & behind the back wiper. I gently freed the door after much diigent effort. Once freed, the car proceeded to move forward on its own before I could access it to shut off the engine, & it eventually crashed into the opposite storage unit. I accessed the vehicle at that time & reversed away from the buildings so the car was equidistant from both buildings & facing an area where it would do minimal harm if it moved again, though I did cut off the engine. Verified vehicle was in PARK. The car had damage to the whole rear area, & damage to the driver's side bumper. Front wheels had been turned right so the car's trajectory was a wide right arc. i tried calling the rental facility manager but there was no after hours number & no answer, so I called city police who promptly arrived within minutes; one vehicle immediately drove up & I quickly punched in my gate access code for easier entry. This vehicle was followed by another white pickup who punched a code on the keypad & let himself
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-17
- VIN: JA4AD3A37LZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUNROOF GLASS SHATTERED
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-30
- VIN: JA4J24A56LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON THE FREEWAY AT 70MPH, THE CAR SUDDENLY STARTED FLASHING WARNINGS OF "EV SYSTEM REQUIRED STOP SAFELY", "RBS SERVICE REQUIRED!", AND THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT CAME ON. ALSO, I WASN'T ABLE TO ACCELERATE OVER 20MPH. I QUICKLY EXITED THE FREEWAY AND TURNED OFF THE CAR. WHEN I RESTARTED IT, THE CAR SEEMED TO OPERATE NORMALLY AS FAR AS THE ACCELERATION, BUT THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT SOON LIGHT REMAINED AND THE "BRAKE!" FORWARD COLLISION MITIGATION SYSTEM STARTED TO RANDOMLY KICK IN. INTERESTINGLY, IN THE WEEK LEADING UP TO THE SYSTEM SHUTTING DOWN THE FORWARD COLLISION MITIGATION SYSTEM HAD RANDOMLY KICKED IN A FEW TIMES, BUT I ASSUMED THERE WAS SOMETHING LOW IN THE ROAD I WASN'T SEEING. I'VE ALSO EXPERIENCED ISSUES WITH THE AUDIO SYSTEM AND REAR CAMERA IN THE WEEK LEADING UP TO THIS INCIDENT; THE REAR CAMERA TWICE NEVER APPEARED WHEN IN REVERSE AND THE AUDIO SOURCE WOULD ERRATICALLY SWITCH FROM XM RADIO TO APPLE CAR PLAY ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE HAD JUST UNDER 1,700 MILES ON IT WHEN THIS HAPPENED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE ANOTHER DRIVER WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MPH, THE DRIVER EXPERIENCED A MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE OCCUPANT IN THE PASSENGER'S SEAT SUSTAINED A HEAD INJURIES AND MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS PROVIDED. THE FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENT WERE AT THE SCENE. THERE WAS NO REPORT OF A FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT LOT. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-22
- VIN: JA4AZ3A31LZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY CAR IS 4 MONTHS OLD WITH 5500 MILES ON IT. DRIVING AT 70MPH WITH CRUISE CONTROL ON, CAR STARTED TO KNOCK AND BUCK. I REDUCED SPEED. THE SERVICE TRANSMISSION LIGHT CAME ON AND THE D FOR GEAR SELECTION STARTED TO BLINK. I PULLED OVER AND SHUT THE CAR OFF. I RESTARTED AND THE LIGHT WENT OFF. I DROVE HOME AT A REDUCED SPEED. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID I NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION. 5500 MILES!
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-09
- Number Of Injuries: 4
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA4AD3A37LZ
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER WAS STRUCK IN THE REAR END AND SLAMMED AGAINST A SOLID FOUNDATION IN THE FRONT THAT CAUSE THE DASHBOARD TO BREAK AND ALL THE SEATS TO BREAK FROM THE FLOOR OF THE CAR. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND SEVERE INJURIES RESULTED. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY ON THE HIGHWAY IN ROUTE TO TURN WHEN STRUCK. *TR
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Outlander and 2019 Outlander PHEV vehicles. The seat belt for the right side second-row seat may have been assembled incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly assembled seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the right side second-row seat belt and replace it as necessary, free of charge. This recall began June 17, 2020. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-002.
Negative 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander car reviews
Positive 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander car reviews
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Welcome! We are excited to share that we have just received our 3rd Outlander, the new 2019 GT. We believe that the Outlander is just as well put together as any high-end car we have owned, including Porsches. The best part is that we don't have to pay the high prices of other well-known brands. The Outlander offers great value for money, with a fantastic warranty and only minor recalls for all four cars we have owned. As a taller and larger individual, I need a car that is comfortable, and the Outlander offers the necessary adjustments to make it so. The leather heated seats on the GT are especially comfortable. We take a long trip twice a year from NC to IA and back, and the fuel economy is impressive, with 25-26 mpg on short trips. We can't wait to see how it performs on long runs on the highway. Our 2009 Outlander is still going strong after 190,000 miles, which is a testament to its durability. We are sorry to hear about the recent accident, but we hope that the repairs go smoothly. Thank you for considering our review, and we highly recommend the Outlander!
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Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that the Waverly MITSIBUSHI Dealership staff is currently investigating some unique indents that have developed in the upper section of both rear quarter panels between each side window and rear hatch opening for no apparent reason. Although the cause is still unknown, it's possible that the extreme heat this summer may have played a role. It's worth noting that the car has only been driven 14K km, with routine city driving and regular highway travel to our summer cottage. Thank you for your attention to this matter!
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It's great to hear that you enjoy driving in sports mode! However, during normal driving, it seems like everyone wants to pass you. On the bright side, it's good to know that the car is reliable in the snow, even with its 8-inch height. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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I recently rented an Outlander Limited (which I believe is a fleet only model, equivalent to an SEL model) for four days and drove about 500 miles on both highways and city roads. I can't help but wonder why the press has been so negative about this vehicle. The ride and acceleration were good, and the interior materials were fine. While the third row seat is small and cramped for adults, it would be perfect for kids under eight years old. Additionally, the gas mileage is excellent for a small SUV (I got around 30 MPG). If I were in the market for a new car, I would definitely consider buying one, especially since it's about 25 percent cheaper than comparably priced RAV4 or CR-V. My only issue is with the CVT transmission, which searches for the correct gear at highway speeds when the engine is cold, but adjusts to the right gear after a few minutes. The audio interface is a little funky, but I was able to figure it out. Overall, I was surprisingly happy with the Outlander.
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I can see that you really enjoyed the car! It's great to hear that you loved the model and year, and I'm glad that there wasn't anything you disliked about it.
Other years of Mitsubishi Outlander
Are you having problems with your 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Rex Luettgen 2024-11-28
Since we purchased our vehicle in the beginning of April 2019, it has unfortunately required service about 5 times. The first issue was a defective engine control unit that caused the car battery to drain, leaving us unable to even open the car. The sunroof has also been leaking, and while it has been repaired twice, we are unsure if it has been fully resolved. Despite our frustrations, we understand that these things can happen with any car. We would appreciate some additional support from the dealership and the manufacturer, but we remain hopeful that we can come to a resolution. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Dale Hackett 2024-10-25
If you're considering purchasing a Mitsubishi, it's important to keep in mind that it's a long-term investment. This car is built to last, so it's best to plan on keeping it for four or five years. While it may not be the smoothest ride on a windy highway, it's a reliable option. I've personally owned two Mitsubishis, including an SE that I purchased for less than $17,000 with only 2800 miles. While some dealerships may try to push additional protection plans, it's important to stand up for yourself and voice your concerns. Overall, I've had positive experiences with Mitsubishi and would recommend it to others.
Lester Stroman 2024-09-29
I hope you had a safe journey! It sounds like the rental car you had wasn't the most comfortable, but it got you where you needed to go. It's understandable to feel disappointed when things don't meet our expectations. Thank you for sharing your experience with Mitsubishi.
Kelvin Fadel 2024-07-01
I was a bit disappointed when I was switched to this vertical in Las Vegas this May 2019. There was just too much glass.
Ramon Effertz 2024-06-18
I would advise against purchasing this product. It can be frustrating to use due to the presence of several bugs. For instance, you may encounter difficulty when attempting to open the gasoline door cap.