Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid [Detailed Guide 2025]

Are you considering purchasing a used or new Mitsubishi Outlander? Firstly, you must be informed about the worst problematic years to avoid a vehicle that might be frustrating or disturbing for you later due to its frequent problems often reported by the owners.

Having a good understanding of Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid and the best years to buy can help you make a wise buying decision.

In this article, we will explore those worst Outlander years that remain problematic, and past owners have given negative reviews due to the specific model year issues and constant problems that make them less desirable for potential new buyers. 

Mitsubishi Outlander Years to Avoid: A Comprehensive Guide

Mitsubishi Outlander has remained a popular combat crossover SUV among many SUV buyers due to its supreme features, versatility, affordability, practicality, decent performance, and unique features like all-wheel drive. However, like any other car manufacturer, Mitsubishi has tried its best to deliver the best vehicles. Still, only some models are created equally; certain models have commonly reported issues. 

Mitsubishi Outlander Years to Avoid

Here’s a quick overview of the worst problematic years that must be avoided while purchasing. We will also look at the common problems triggered in each specific model & year that might help you inspect or diagnose the vehicle before buying.

2003 Mitsubishi Outlander:

In 2001, the Mitsubishi Outlander first generation production was started, and later, in 2003, it was introduced in the American market. The worst year among first-generation models was 2003, which faced several performance challenges and reliability issues, explained below.

Problem Overview:

• Transmission problems: The most common issue experienced by the owners of the first-generation Outlander 2003 was the transmission system. Many owners complain about the problems such as hesitations, jerking, gear slipping, and hard shifting during acceleration. These issues are expensive, and some owners have faced complete transmission breakdowns.
• Electrical system issues: Mitsubishi Outlander 2003 year often triggers electrical issues such as battery drainage, faulty alternators, windows issues, lights, and electrical glitches that cause inconvenience, especially while driving on the road.
• Poor Engine Performance: The engine performance in the 2003 Outlander was not satisfying as many owners faced issues such as rough idling, stalling, loss of power when carrying a load, and poor vehicle performance. A well-functioning engine is the most important need of a vehicle as it transforms fuel into energy and makes the vehicle capable of driving.

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander

The Mitsubishi Outlander 2007 second generation came up with a new look, better performance than first-generation models, and more advanced features. Still, it also has some critical problems that the owners often reported.

Problem overview

• CVT transmission failures: In 2007, Mitsubishi Outlander’s second generation production was started by introducing the constant variable transmission (CVT) system, aiming to improve vehicle performance and make its driving smooth. Owners of the 2007 Outlander reported issues regarding the CVT failures and complaints about its sluggish performance experience.
• Fuel Economy: According to 2007 Outlander owners, the fuel efficiency was relatively poor compared to other Mitsubishi models.
• Interior Build Quality: The interior material of the 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander is made up of plastic, such as door handles and other interior components, which wear out or break over a few periods of usage. Such components might be disturbing and lead to owners’ dissatisfaction with the overall build quality.

2014-2015 Mitsubishi Outlander

A new, redesigned third generation was introduced in 2014 with advanced features and improved fuel economy, safety, and engine performance. Unfortunately, the 2014-2015 Outlander years face higher complaints and dissatisfaction from owners, which makes it the least reliable model year of the Mitsubishi Outlander.

Problem overview

• Transmission and CVT Issues: The CVT transmission issues remained unsolved in the 2014 model year, and it was the worst problematic model that received higher complaints regarding transmission, such as jerking, hard gear shifts, and slipping during gear change at low speed.
• Airbag and Safety Recalls: The airbag system in the 2014-205 Mitsubishi Outlander faces issues as it was not deploying during sudden vehicle crashes. Faulty sensors were the main culprits behind airbag problems, which was also a safety concern for many owners. Several recalls related to the airbag system were widely announced to clear these issues.
• Electrical and Infotainment Glitches: The infotainment and electrical system of the 2014-2015 Outlander was quite problematic as the owners reported issues such as the touchscreen not being responsive, glitches, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

While the third generation years are improved and more reliable than the first & second generation, the 2018 year also falls in the Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid the list as it also criticized the brake issues, transmission & engine performance problems.

Problems overview

• Brake Problems: The 2018 Outlander owners experienced many issues in the brake system, such as premature wear of brake pads & rotors, increased vehicle stopping distance, and unusual squeaking & whining noises while pressing the brakes. These problems can become a safety compromise if not checked promptly.
• Engine and Transmission: The transmission and engine performance issues in the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander are less common than in the early model years. However, some owners face issues with the transmission systems and engine power loss, especially during heavy loads.
• Electrical Problems: Several electrical issues were commonly reported in the 2018 Outlander, such as electrical glitches, dashboard warning lights illumination, and keyless entry system issues.

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Mitsubishi Outlander’s best years

Choosing the best year for Mitsubishi Outlander buying is crucial to enjoying reliable performance and supreme features. Here’s the breakdown of Mitsubishi Outlander’s best years to consider when buying.

2016-2017 Models

The 2016-2017 model years are the best years to buy as the CVT transmission and engine issues are not frequently reported in these Mitsubishi Outlander years. Most owners have reflected positive feedback regarding the advanced safety features developed in these models, such as forward collision mitigation, lane departure warnings, and improved handling. 

Pros:

• Improved CVT reliability
• Affordable used car pricing
• Advanced safety features
• Less CVT transmission issues

2019 mitsubishi outlander

During this period, Mitsubishi has made its new models the best performing, and improvements to previous frequent problems have positively impacted the owner’s satisfaction. The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander came up with advanced features, better fuel efficiency, improved transmission, charming designs, and various advanced technologies such as Android Auto and Apple Carplay.

Pros:

• Modern technology and infotainment
• Improved interior quality
• Better fuel economy and hybrid options

2022-Present

While researching a used Outlander to purchase, it’s suggested that we reach out for newly launched models or years manufactured after 2018 to avoid issues and potential problems. The 2022 model is ideal for buyers seeking the newest features and top reliability.

Pros:

• Premium design and build quality
• Excellent comfort and practicality
• Latest driver assistance technologies
• Advanced features and smooth driving experience

In a nutshell

The Mitsubishi Outlander has undoubtedly gained popularity among SUV lovers due to its blended features and affordable prices. However, some of its model years have proven more problematic than others. Buying and keeping yourself safe from critical transmission, engine performance, and electrical problems should be avoided.

However, the Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid include the 2003 first-generation year, 2007 second generations Outlander, 2014-2015 models, and 2018 third-generation model years. Additionally, consider focusing on the Mitsubishi Outlander best years, 2019 and onwards, that are relatively less problematic, with safety features and advanced improvements, and deliver good performance.

Moreover, making a detailed inspection by a certified mechanic before purchasing and checking the past service history of the used Outlander you’re interested in buying can help you get a vehicle that meets your needs and expectations.