Mitsubishi Outlander ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2003–2025)
Side-by-side AutoScores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Mitsubishi Outlander we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Outlander across generations.
Average AutoScore
79/100
Best Year
2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
Score 85
Weakest Year
2013 Mitsubishi Outlander
Score 68
Every Mitsubishi Outlander Ranked
Sorted by AutoScore. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
An underrated workhorse, the 2006 Outlander delivers solid reliability provided its critical timing belt service has been performed and rust is kept at bay.
Top risks: Body & Underbody Corrosion · Engine (Timing Belt) · Electrical (Minor Components)
A warranty-backed, value-driven family SUV that delivers consistent performance, provided the CVT is well-maintained.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Infotainment System · Minor Electrical Components
A durable, affordable compact SUV, but critical inspection for rust and specific drivetrain components is non-negotiable.
Top risks: Exhaust System / Catalytic Converter · Rust and Corrosion · Rear Suspension Components
A dependable, value-oriented SUV, but due diligence on CVT maintenance is critical for 2.4L variants.
Top risks: CVT Transmission (2.4L models) · Rust & Corrosion · Electrical System
A solid, no-frills SUV offering strong value, but the CVT's health is paramount for worry-free ownership.
Top risks: CVT Transmission · Infotainment System · Brake Components
A practical and affordable choice, but the CVT demands careful scrutiny and diligent maintenance.
Top risks: CVT Transmission · HVAC/AC System · Infotainment & Electrical Glitches
A well-warrantied and practical family SUV, but proactive CVT maintenance is crucial for extended peace of mind.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Infotainment & Electrical Systems · Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
A simple, capable SUV that demands diligent maintenance to avoid expensive emissions and structural repairs.
Top risks: Exhaust & Emissions System · Engine Timing Belt · Suspension & Steering Components
A practical, no-frills compact SUV that offers solid value if its predictable wear points are properly addressed.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Suspension Components · Exhaust System & Catalytic Converter
A practical and affordable used SUV, but demands specific inspection for known weaknesses to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Top risks: HVAC Blend Door Actuator · CVT Transmission (2.4L models) · Rear Wheel Bearings
A practical choice that can be reliable, but only with careful attention to its transmission and regular preventative maintenance.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Suspension Components · Engine Oil Consumption (2.4L)
A diamond in the rough for the mechanically inclined, but neglect can quickly turn it into a money pit.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · HVAC Blower Motor & Resistor · Rust and Corrosion
A diamond in the rough for the mechanically savvy, but the CVT can be a deal-breaker if not thoroughly vetted.
Top risks: CVT Transmission (2.4L models) · Suspension Components · Electrical System (Minor)
A budget-friendly SUV that can be a solid runner, but the CVT is a significant wildcard requiring careful vetting.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Rust and Corrosion · Electrical System Quirks
A value-focused SUV that demands careful inspection of its transmission and body condition to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Rust and Body Corrosion · HVAC System
A pragmatic choice for budget-minded buyers, but the CVT is a significant wildcard that necessitates thorough due diligence.
Top risks: CVT Transmission · Electrical System · Suspension Components
A pragmatic SUV that offers good value and AWD capability, but demands meticulous powertrain maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
Top risks: CVT Transmission · Electrical System & Infotainment · Suspension Components
A practical, value-oriented SUV with a reliable engine, but the 2.4L's CVT demands careful scrutiny and diligent maintenance.
Top risks: CVT Transmission (2.4L models) · Electrical / Infotainment System · Suspension Components
A practical and value-oriented SUV, but its CVT requires vigilant maintenance to ensure long-term reliability.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Electrical System (Minor) · Interior Trim & HVAC
A value-oriented SUV that demands proactive maintenance and a watchful eye on its powertrain, but offers decent capability.
Top risks: CVT Transmission · Infotainment System · Electrical Sensors & Wiring
A value-packed SUV with a notable Achilles' heel in its transmission, requiring informed ownership.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Infotainment and Electrical System · Suspension Components
A budget-friendly SUV that can be a good value if you find a well-maintained V6, but the CVT is a significant gamble.
Top risks: CVT Transmission (2.4L) · Suspension Components · Air Conditioning System
A value-focused SUV with a major transmission Achilles' heel that dictates its long-term viability.
Top risks: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) · Suspension Components · Electrical System
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Problems That Follow the Outlander Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Suspension Components
Appears in 9 model years · 39% of generations
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Appears in 9 model years · 39% of generations
CVT Transmission
Appears in 5 model years · 22% of generations
CVT Transmission (2.4L models)
Appears in 4 model years · 17% of generations
Rust and Corrosion
Appears in 3 model years · 13% of generations
Electrical System
Appears in 3 model years · 13% of generations
Infotainment System
Appears in 3 model years · 13% of generations
Electrical System (Minor)
Appears in 2 model years · 9% of generations
Outlander vs. the Competition
Head-to-head reliability comparisons with the Outlander's main rivals.
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