Find out the top 5 problems with the Mitsubishi Outlander, years 2007 to 2013. While there’s nothing particularly wrong with the 2nd generation of Outlanders, we review its common issues and fixes in this article and video.
Top 5 Problems with the 2nd Generation 2007 to 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
1. Faulty Lower Control Arms
Symptoms of Faulty Lower Control Arms
- Squeaking noise when driving over bumps
- Rattling when turning
- Premature tire wear
Causes of Bad Lower Control Arms
The lower control arms and ball joints can wear, and this can cause symptoms like squeaking over bumps. Problems with these parts can also cause a misalignment, and that can wear the tires quickly.
How to Fix the Lower Control Arms
This is an easy DIY repair that even a beginner can accomplish. Steps to fix the control arm include raising and securing the vehicle, removing the tire, removing the lower ball joint bolt, removing the bolts from the control arm, and replacing it. Once the control arm has been installed, we recommend getting an alignment.
2. CVT Transmission
Symptoms of Problems with the Transmission in the 2nd Gen Outlander
- Transmission slipping
- Car won’t move with the transmission in gear
Causes of Issues with the Transmission
It’s common for the constant variable transmission (CVT) to have issues, and fluid changes might prevent these.
How to Fix Problems with the Transmission in the 2007 to 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
To prevent problems with the transmission, regularly inspect the transmission fluid level and change the fluid during recommended intervals. If there’s a problem with the transmission causing these symptoms, you’ll likely need to rebuild or replace it.
3. Crank Position Sensor Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Crank Sensor
- Car won’t start
Causes of a Bad Crank Sensor
The crank sensor is known to cause a no-start condition. If you’ve had timing belt/chain or head gasket work done, the timing could be off and causing this issue.
How to Fix a Bad Crank Sensor
The crank sensor is located on the backside of the engine. It’s above the axle on the right side. Replacing the sensor might fix this issue, but if not there could be a problem with the timing.
4. Water Pump
Symptoms of a Bad Water Pump
- Coolant leaking on the passenger side of the vehicle
- Engine overheating
- Low coolant level
Causes of Problems with the Water Pump on the 2007 to 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
Leaking coolant on the passenger or a low coolant level are usually from a leaking water pump on the 2007 to 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
How to Fix the Water Pump
On the V6 engine, the water belt is located underneath the timing belt, and we recommend replacing the timing belt at the same time as the water pump. The water pump on the 4-cylinder engine is external and driven by the drive belt.
5. Broken Door Handle
Symptoms of a Broken Door Handle
- Door handle breaks off
Causes of a Broken Door Handle
The door handle can break if pulled too hard from the edge.
How to Fix a Broken Door Handle on the 2007 to 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
You don’t have to remove the door panel to replace the door handle in the 2nd gen Outlander. Remove the rubber grommet from the side of the door, remove the star bit, and then remove the trim cover from the door handle to remove and replace the door handle.
2nd Generation Mitsubishi Outlander Model Years
- 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
