Mitsubishi common problems & weak spots
The most widely documented Mitsubishi weak spots in Canada: what breaks, what it costs to fix, and what to inspect before buying used.
Known issues
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Watch out
Jatco CVT overheating and failure
Outlander, RVR and Lancer CVTs overheat and fail without strict fluid changes every 50,000 km. A whining CVT on a test drive is a red flag.
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Common
Rust on older models
Lancer and older Outlanders rust at rockers, rear arches and subframes in the salt belt. Lift inspection before buying.
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Common
Timing belt on the 3.0L V6 (older Outlander)
The 6B31 V6 uses a belt with roughly a 160,000 km interval. Ask for proof \u2014 it\u2019s an interference engine.
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Common
Thin dealer network in Canada
Fewer dealers mean longer waits for some parts and warranty work, especially outside big cities.
Mitsubishi Outlander
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Watch out
CVT service history is everything
Only buy an Outlander with documented CVT fluid changes every 50,000 km. No records \u2014 especially past 150,000 km \u2014 means walk away.
Pick another make
Get it inspected before you buy
A pre-purchase inspection on a lift reveals rust, leaks and hidden problems before you pay for the car.