Should I buy a 2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Considering a 2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.

At a glance

We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.

This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.

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2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander
2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander buyer guide image.

Common Mitsubishi Outlander (2012–2021) problems

1

Rear brake caliper and parking brake corrosion

Handbrake feels weak or odd, one rear wheel runs hot after a drive, or the car feels slightly held back.

2

Balance shaft coupler wear leading to engine damage

Rattle or chattering from low down in the engine at idle, often most obvious warm; some cars also develop vibration or a rougher diesel note.

3

Engine control relay fault that can cause stalling or no restart

The car may show warning lights, lose engine assistance, or refuse to restart the petrol engine when battery charge is low.

Mitsubishi Outlander buying questions

Is a 2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander worth buying?

It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.

What common problems affect the Mitsubishi Outlander (2012–2021)?

The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.

What should I check before buying a Mitsubishi Outlander?

Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.

A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.

The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.

Or enter the vehicle manually