RoadVitals

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
50
Latest Oct 19, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
13
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
4

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Electrical1217.4%
  • Engine811.6%
  • Airbags68.7%
  • Brakes68.7%
  • Powertrain (other)57.2%
  • Steering57.2%
  • Suspension45.8%
  • Tires & wheels34.3%
  • Other / unspecified22.9%
  • Seat belts11.4%
  • Interior & seats11.4%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander has experienced recurring high engine-temperature readings, misfires, and two overheating-related engine shutdowns while driving, creating a risk of unexpected power loss in traffic. The vehicle has been evaluated repeatedly by authorized Mitsubishi dealerships without identifying the underlying cause. Air in the cooling system was documented in September 2025, with the dealership noting it could cause the engine to run hotter than normal. In September 2026, a dealership again reported a significant amount of air in the cooling system. Previous cooling-system service temporarily improved the symptoms, but they returned. The temperature gauge repeatedly approaches H while driving, particularly with the A/C operating, and decreases when I slow down or turn off the A/C. These episodes occur WITHOUT an illuminated Check Engine Light or other warning message. During an earlier incident, the Check Engine Light appeared the following morning but went off before diagnostic codes could be retrieved. At the most recent dealership visit, I provided photographic evidence of the high temperature reading. The dealership's diagnostic equipment reportedly found no issue, but a technician's personal scanner identified a battery-related problem and additional codes. The battery was replaced, yet the temperature problem continued. On October 17, 2026, at approximately 98,395 miles, I again photographed the temperature gauge approaching H without any warning light. Despite multiple inspections, the cause remains UNKNOWN. I am concerned about another engine shutdown and a potential collision. The vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA ID 11772262 · filed Oct 19, 2026

The camera does not activate when the car is put into reverse. It also doesn't activate when you are parking the car. The parking camera doesn't show on the screen at all. The recall on this item was repaired on my car but didn't fix the issue and the dealer refused to service it further without significant cost. This is a fundamental safety issue that should be addressed by recall and repaired without cost to the owner. The dealership that serviced a previous recall was Doug Smith Mitsubishi in American Fork Utah, however this didn't fix the issue. I also paid money for a diagnostic service and the service center could not determine why the camera is not triggering. The warning sounds/alerts still work. Please help. Thanks

NHTSA ID 11756554 · filed Aug 12, 2026
All 12 reports naming electrical →

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The vehicle failed to stop. Emergency Braking failed and I was unable to manually depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The vehicle electronics have intermittently have failed, turning everything off in the vehicle including the instrument panel at different times.

NHTSA ID 11760592 · filed Aug 29, 2026

The warning went off that the system was not working while I was driving. The call was evaluated by a Mitsubishi Service Center. The Service Center said the Front Bracket for the radar was bent. The Service Center said there is no evidence of a collision to the front end of the car.

NHTSA ID 11759456 · filed Aug 25, 2026
All 8 reports naming driver assistance →

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander has experienced recurring high engine-temperature readings, misfires, and two overheating-related engine shutdowns while driving, creating a risk of unexpected power loss in traffic. The vehicle has been evaluated repeatedly by authorized Mitsubishi dealerships without identifying the underlying cause. Air in the cooling system was documented in September 2025, with the dealership noting it could cause the engine to run hotter than normal. In September 2026, a dealership again reported a significant amount of air in the cooling system. Previous cooling-system service temporarily improved the symptoms, but they returned. The temperature gauge repeatedly approaches H while driving, particularly with the A/C operating, and decreases when I slow down or turn off the A/C. These episodes occur WITHOUT an illuminated Check Engine Light or other warning message. During an earlier incident, the Check Engine Light appeared the following morning but went off before diagnostic codes could be retrieved. At the most recent dealership visit, I provided photographic evidence of the high temperature reading. The dealership's diagnostic equipment reportedly found no issue, but a technician's personal scanner identified a battery-related problem and additional codes. The battery was replaced, yet the temperature problem continued. On October 17, 2026, at approximately 98,395 miles, I again photographed the temperature gauge approaching H without any warning light. Despite multiple inspections, the cause remains UNKNOWN. I am concerned about another engine shutdown and a potential collision. The vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA ID 11772262 · filed Oct 19, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The vehicle experienced an apparent engine failure involving the engine cooling system and possible head gasket and/or engine damage. Prior to failure, the vehicle had a strong sweet coolant smell and was later diagnosed by the servicing dealership as having a coolant leak and possible engine-related damage requiring engine replacement. The vehicle is currently located and available for inspection at Don Herring Mitsubishi. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While driving after leaving the dealership, the vehicle began jerking, hesitating during acceleration, and losing power unexpectedly. A flashing check engine light briefly appeared and disappeared. The sudden loss of normal engine performance created a serious safety hazard because the vehicle could have stalled in traffic, increasing the risk of an accident or collision. I also have eight children, including [XXX] twins, and the loss of transportation has prevented me from reliably getting my children to school, medical appointments, and obtaining necessities. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. Don Herring Mitsubishi inspected the vehicle and identified a coolant leak and possible major engine damage. The dealership advised that the engine may need replacement. The warranty company, CNA Extended Warranty, stated the dealership’s submitted notes referenced a blown head gasket and requested further teardown and inspection before approving repairs. The vehicle remains unrepaired while awaiting further action and/or engine replacement. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has been inspected by Don Herring Mitsubishi and reviewed through CNA Extended Warranty as part of the repair claim process. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was also inspected on Marc INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF

NHTSA ID 11736808 · filed May 9, 2026
All 8 reports naming engine →

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Our vehicles gas door would not open to get gas. During the 2nd and 3rd repair they damaged our vehicle. Worst of all on the last repair they modified our gas tank. They said they took it off another vehicle. Mine was a locking door now it isn’t. Since this was done the vehicle smells of gas when you fill it up and the miles to empty is off about 100 miles.

NHTSA ID 11756256 · filed Aug 11, 2026

You ca. have gas in the car and it still just cut off and say no gas and it be gas in their

NHTSA ID 11753657 · filed Jul 30, 2026
All 8 reports naming fuel system →

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owned a 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle crashed and T-bone another vehicle that ran a red light. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact struck her head on the front driver's side window and steering wheel, sustaining injuries to the head, back, shoulder, neck, and knee. The contact’s daughter, seated in the rear passenger’s seat struck her head against the rear passenger side window and sustained a head injury. The other child seated in the rear middle seat had not sustained any injuries. The contact and her daughter received medical attention. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and then to a body shop by the Insurance Company. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. Prior to the crash, the dealer was made aware of an emergency parking sensor warning light and another unknown warning light that were illuminated. The contact stated that the screen went blank but had not yet informed the dealer of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.

NHTSA ID 11769651 · filed Oct 7, 2026

Hey I run over a pothole and. My tire went flat and then the air bag just came out that’s not supposed to happen just from a flat tire that’s a safety hazard

NHTSA ID 11753656 · filed Jul 30, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The vehicle failed to stop. Emergency Braking failed and I was unable to manually depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The vehicle electronics have intermittently have failed, turning everything off in the vehicle including the instrument panel at different times.

NHTSA ID 11760592 · filed Aug 29, 2026

The rear braking system failed due to a sticking/seizing brake caliper. An independent inspection confirmed a severe thickness discrepancy: the outer pad was worn down to 3mm, while the inner pad remained at 7mm. This occurred at only 7,343 miles. I have the physical brake pads provided by the dealer; however, I have photographic proof that the dealer provided fraudulent, evenly worn pads upon vehicle pickup to tamper with evidence. Both the fraudulent pads and the original photos of the defective pads are available for inspection. The sticking caliper causes uneven braking force, increased stopping distances, and premature brake failure. This is a severe safety risk that could lead to a loss of vehicle control or a collision, especially under emergency braking conditions. Furthermore, the dealership's attempt to conceal this defect by swapping parts prevents proper safety documentation and potential recall actions. An independent service center (certified technician) confirmed the 3mm/7mm wear delta on March 19, 2026. The dealer (Northstar Mitsubishi) also initially confirmed the defect and processed it as a $0.00 warranty repair (Invoice #6048308) before rescinding the coverage and demanding payment. The vehicle was inspected by the authorized dealer (Northstar Mitsubishi) and an independent repair facility. I am currently requesting a formal inspection by Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) corporate. There were no dashboard warning lamps. The primary symptom was an excessive amount of brake dust accumulating on the rear wheels compared to the front, and a noticeable physical thickness difference between the inner and outer brake pads. These symptoms were first observed around 7,000 miles during a routine inspection. The defect was confirmed by an independent technician's measurement of 3mm (outer) vs 7mm (inner).

NHTSA ID 11726382 · filed Mar 23, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander has experienced recurring high engine-temperature readings, misfires, and two overheating-related engine shutdowns while driving, creating a risk of unexpected power loss in traffic. The vehicle has been evaluated repeatedly by authorized Mitsubishi dealerships without identifying the underlying cause. Air in the cooling system was documented in September 2025, with the dealership noting it could cause the engine to run hotter than normal. In September 2026, a dealership again reported a significant amount of air in the cooling system. Previous cooling-system service temporarily improved the symptoms, but they returned. The temperature gauge repeatedly approaches H while driving, particularly with the A/C operating, and decreases when I slow down or turn off the A/C. These episodes occur WITHOUT an illuminated Check Engine Light or other warning message. During an earlier incident, the Check Engine Light appeared the following morning but went off before diagnostic codes could be retrieved. At the most recent dealership visit, I provided photographic evidence of the high temperature reading. The dealership's diagnostic equipment reportedly found no issue, but a technician's personal scanner identified a battery-related problem and additional codes. The battery was replaced, yet the temperature problem continued. On October 17, 2026, at approximately 98,395 miles, I again photographed the temperature gauge approaching H without any warning light. Despite multiple inspections, the cause remains UNKNOWN. I am concerned about another engine shutdown and a potential collision. The vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA ID 11772262 · filed Oct 19, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear of the vehicle would move independently. The contact stated that it felt as if the vehicle were going to slide and eventually would lose control. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that an unknown rear chip had failed. The shock absorbers had water, the rear brake pads were worn down to zero, and the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted and was worsening. In addition, the contact stated an abnormal grinding sound could be heard coming from the rear differential. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the differential gauge had failed to function as intended. The warning light for the 4-wheel drive was illuminated. The brakes and calipers were replaced. The rear differential was not repaired. The dealer informed the contact that the pole where the breather pipe is inserted on the rear differential carrier is off spec, allowing water intrusion. And that the new rear tires were badly worn on the inside and had high spots on the center. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

NHTSA ID 11735926 · filed May 5, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Extremely heavy steering on highway. Steering wheel slow to return to center and sometimes will stay "locked" into turn, requiring to turn the wheel manually back to center.

NHTSA ID 11716840 · filed Feb 9, 2026

I took this car 2 times to the dealership about the same issue the steering wheel it has a lose parts inside keep giving a weird noise and the second issue the gas smell inside the cabin if you stop the vehicle on hot day and the ac running they are a very bad gas smell coming inside the cabin throw the ac vents i looked on this issue online alot of people have this issue dealership said can't smell nothing they don't want to put the work in to this issue i need help please even last night we smelled it its very bad alot they said On line other people that the gas tank vents on hot day the vent out the gas and its get in to the ac thats why we smell it but when you are driving you dont smell nothing but if you stop and keep the car running come back it will be inside the cabin full of gas smell coming from the vents i have a disabled son i can't keep going throw this issue and some people said that mitsubishi know about it and they are working on it to fix i can't breath no more gas

NHTSA ID 11607670 · filed Aug 10, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear of the vehicle would move independently. The contact stated that it felt as if the vehicle were going to slide and eventually would lose control. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that an unknown rear chip had failed. The shock absorbers had water, the rear brake pads were worn down to zero, and the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted and was worsening. In addition, the contact stated an abnormal grinding sound could be heard coming from the rear differential. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the differential gauge had failed to function as intended. The warning light for the 4-wheel drive was illuminated. The brakes and calipers were replaced. The rear differential was not repaired. The dealer informed the contact that the pole where the breather pipe is inserted on the rear differential carrier is off spec, allowing water intrusion. And that the new rear tires were badly worn on the inside and had high spots on the center. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

NHTSA ID 11735926 · filed May 5, 2026

Clunking/Rattling noise coming from passenger rear of vehicle when hitting bumps and rear of vehicle swaying/swerving. Can hear noise while shaking the car side to side while parked. Only 35000 miles. Rear suspension of vehicle seems soft. Took to the dealer rear was misaligned didn't find any other problems. Continue to have the problem swaying/swerving is still there but not as bad. This could possibly cause driver to loose control.

NHTSA ID 11684655 · filed Sep 3, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

255 45 R20 I had been having tire issues for several days, took car into Mavis tire center and they could not balance it, diagnosing it as separated tire/manufacture defect and advised not to drive as it was unsafe. I called Nexen Tire and advised to take it to one of their dealers which I did(Tire Choice). They wanted me to buy a new tire and give the tire to the distributor. I refused because the distributor has nothing to do with the factory warranty. I went back to Nexen and told to file on line which I did. It took 18 days for Nexen to get back to me after several calls. 3 days later they assigned an adjustor. 3 days after that they changed adjustors. 7 days later they said they need more information. 10 days later I call and am told they would email me. Called back still no email. Called again said claim denied sending email. Still no email. Called again and told I was denied because I selected Road Disturbance which only allows for 2/23 tread wear and I had 3/32 tread wear. They were given 2 statements by 2 different people from Mavis Tire that the tire was separated/manufacture defect along with a written description by me including several emails and phone calls. I was then told to refile under workmanship/materials which I did along with all the documentation that this tire is separated/manufacture defect. This was immediately rubber stamped denied, "Tread depths on this tire are outside the warranty limitations". The warranty clearly states the tire is covered from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the tire down to a tread depth of 2/32. They have clear documentation the tire has 6/32 tread depth. Original factor tire on new car has tread depth of 9/32. I sent them a copy of their warranty with no reply. 33days they have drugged this out. I have complied with all of their request and been forced to drive a unsafe vehicle. I have limited the use during this time however as a 69 year old veteran I and my wife have had doctors appointment

NHTSA ID 11768349 · filed Oct 1, 2026

While I was driving on 77 south in Charlotte nc rt before exit 11 I heard a scraping and rattling sound then a loud pop. My air pressure immediately came on and dropped to zero for the passenger rear tire. I got off and pulled to the side of the road until road side assistance was able to tow my vehicle. My tire is p255/45 r20

NHTSA ID 11754608 · filed Aug 3, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Hey I run over a pothole and. My tire went flat and then the air bag just came out that’s not supposed to happen just from a flat tire that’s a safety hazard

NHTSA ID 11753656 · filed Jul 30, 2026

My tire went flat, went to pull over and when my tire went blow , the driver seat airbag came out that’s not right because it’s no wreck no accident no nothing. I just don’t understand what could’ve went wrong with just a tire going flat on the passenger sideand then the driver seat airbag went off no collision no damage no nothing to vehicle my screen go out in the car I lose power when driving it’ll just lose power and now you have to pull over and turn the car off and start it back up. I have taken it in one time before they changed the battery since the battery is not the battery is something electrical.

NHTSA ID 11623576 · filed Nov 5, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Hey I run over a pothole and. My tire went flat and then the air bag just came out that’s not supposed to happen just from a flat tire that’s a safety hazard

NHTSA ID 11753656 · filed Jul 30, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

On two instances,the plug under the driver seat controlling the seat functions became detached. On both occasions the seat pushed forward pushing the driver into the steering wheel making it nearly impossible to steer. Fortunately, I was stopped both times. This could have been catastrophic had I been going down the road. The dealer has temporarily wire tied the plug so it will not happen again and the have ordered a new wiring harness, which is on back order.

NHTSA ID 11548599 · filed Oct 6, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .