Mitsubishi Recalls Nearly 100,000 Outlanders for Potential Liftgate Hazard

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. is recalling approximately 91,697 of its Outlander and Outlander PHEV vehicles manufactured between 2014 and 2022 due to a defect that could cause the liftgate to fall unexpectedly. The recall specifically affects vehicles sold or currently registered in the “Salt Belt” region of the United States, which includes states experiencing significant road salting during winter months.

The issue stems from the potential for corrosion on the tailgate gas spring cylinder. According to the manufacturer’s defect report, saltwater penetration can lead to the cylinder’s wall thickness being reduced over time. This diminished thickness can cause the gas spring to rapidly lose pressure, posing a safety risk. The defect could result in the liftgate falling without warning, or in more severe cases, the gas spring cylinder rupturing, which may lead to injury. There are no specific warning signs that precede this malfunction.

The affected vehicles include the 2018-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, with approximately 6,077 units potentially impacted. Additionally, the recall covers the 2014-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander, encompassing about 85,620 vehicles. The problem has been traced to the tailgate gas springs, manufactured by MITO KOGYO CO., LTD. of Japan, which may allow saltwater to penetrate and accumulate within the dust cap, initiating the corrosion process. While the manufacturer has been investigating the issue since late 2023 following reports from Transport Canada, the exact root cause of the saltwater penetration remains under investigation.

Mitsubishi will notify owners of affected vehicles and advise them to bring their cars to a dealer for repair. The remedy will involve replacing both the left and right tailgate gas springs. The new components will feature an anti-corrosion coating on the steel cylinder, a different approach than the recalled parts, which used a heat-shrink resin tube to prevent corrosion. Owners who have previously paid for repairs related to this issue will be eligible for reimbursement upon submission of original repair orders and proof of payment. The company plans to begin notifying dealers on October 1, 2025, with owner notifications commencing on October 6, 2025. Owners will be able to check if their vehicle is included in the recall by its VIN starting October 1, 2025.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

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