2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Safety Report
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Strong crash ratings, but high recall count and persistent CVT transmission complaints raise reliability concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Reliability Score
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Slipping Numerous complaints describe the CVT transmission slipping, stalling, hesitating during acceleration, or entering 'limp mode,' often accompanied by warning lights. This is supported by a recall (16V-287) for acceleration hesitation. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Parking Brake Malfunction Reports of parking brake failing to engage or disengage, or sticking while driving. Two recalls (16V-286, 16V-288) address rust prevention and water entry causing binding in the parking brake operating shafts/actuators. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Loss Of Wiper Function Water entry can cause corrosion of the front wiper link ball joint, leading to loss of wiper function, as detailed in recall 16V-290. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Engine Stalling Due To Defective Relay A recall (16V-291) identifies defective relays in the starter assembly that can cause the engine to stall, increasing crash risk. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Insecure Door Latches Inside door latch mechanisms may not latch securely in high temperatures, potentially allowing doors to open while driving, as per recall 16V-292. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport:
The most common issue, primarily related to the CVT transmission, including slipping, hesitation, stalling, and 'limp mode' operation.
Issues with the parking brake not engaging/disengaging properly or sticking, aligning with multiple recalls.
Reports of headlights failing or requiring frequent replacement, and complete loss of headlights while driving.
Complaints related to structural integrity, including issues with the liftgate and front control arms, both subject to recalls.
Problems with door latches not securing properly, as addressed by a recall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Is the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), indicating good performance in controlled impacts. However, it has a high number of consumer complaints (163 total, with 9 crashes and 7 injuries) and 8 recalls, particularly concerning the powertrain and braking systems, which suggests potential real-world reliability and safety concerns.
What are common problems with the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are related to the POWER TRAIN (44 complaints), primarily involving the CVT transmission slipping, stalling, or hesitating. Other common problems include SERVICE BRAKES (12 complaints), often related to parking brake malfunctions, and EXTERIOR LIGHTING (9 complaints), with reports of headlight failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
Yes, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 8 recalls. These include issues with the parking brake (two recalls), front control arm corrosion, loss of windshield wiper function, defective starter relays causing engine stalls, insecure door latches, liftgate support corrosion, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) control module issue causing hesitation during acceleration.
How does the 2016 Outlander Sport perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport received a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating solid performance in these specific crash test categories.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Outlander Sport?
When considering a used 2016 Outlander Sport, pay close attention to the transmission's performance for any signs of slipping, hesitation, or stalling, as this is the most common complaint. Also, ensure all recall repairs, especially those related to the parking brake, front control arms, and transmission, have been completed by checking the vehicle's VIN with Mitsubishi or NHTSA.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While offering good crash test scores, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a high number of recalls and significant powertrain complaints, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verification of all recall completions essential for potential buyers.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The data includes 163 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.