In a stark contrast to automotive giants like Ford, which frequently issue large-scale recalls, Mitsubishi has historically maintained a relatively quiet record regarding safety defects in the U.S. market. However, the manufacturer is now significantly expanding a previous safety notice, affecting over 108,000 Outlander models.
The Core Issue: Corrosion and Mechanical Failure
The recall targets two specific generations of the Mitsubishi Outlander:
– 2018–2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
– 2014–2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
The technical problem lies in the gas strut cylinders used to operate the vehicle’s liftgate (the rear trunk door). Mitsubishi has identified that if these cylinders come into contact with salt water, the metal components can undergo rapid corrosion.
This is not merely a cosmetic concern; corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of the cylinder, potentially causing it to rupture. If a strut fails while the liftgate is in use, it could lead to the door falling unexpectedly, posing a physical risk to users.
Why the Scope Has Changed
This announcement is an expansion of a recall initiated in August of last year. Previously, Mitsubishi’s safety intervention was highly localized, targeting only vehicles in specific regions known for heavy road salt usage—such as the Midwest, Northeast, and parts of the Mountain West.
The decision to broaden the recall suggests one of two things: either the manufacturer has identified a wider range of environmental risks, or the initial geographic boundaries were insufficient to capture all potentially affected vehicles.
Why this matters:
In many regions, salt is not just used on roads during winter; it is also present in coastal air and through maritime exposure. By expanding the recall beyond the “salt belt” states, Mitsubishi is addressing a broader environmental threat that affects vehicle longevity and passenger safety.
Summary of Impact
While Mitsubishi remains one of the more stable manufacturers regarding recall frequency, this expansion highlights how environmental factors—specifically salt exposure—can turn a localized mechanical issue into a widespread safety concern.
Conclusion: Mitsubishi is expanding its safety measures to include over 108,000 Outlander units to prevent liftgate strut ruptures caused by salt-water corrosion. Owners of the affected models should monitor official communications from the manufacturer regarding repairs.
