2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Safety Report
2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Good crash ratings, but concerning airbag, transmission, and electrical complaints with two safety recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Reliability Score
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport receives a reliability score of 60 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 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag System Malfunction Airbag warning light illuminates, and reports of non-deployment during collisions despite significant impact. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Cvt Transmission Failure Transmission light turns on, vehicle feels forced, slips, or goes out completely, sometimes at highway speeds. |
High | Occasional | 30000-100000 miles |
| Electrical System Failures Loss of electrical system while driving, push-button start failure, and various service lights illuminating simultaneously. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Forward Collision Mitigation (Fcm) System Issues Recalled for software issues that could cause unintended braking or system malfunction, increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Seat Belt Retraction Failure Center seat belt will not retract, rendering it unusable and unsafe. |
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 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport:
Multiple complaints regarding airbag warning lights and non-deployment in crashes.
Issues primarily related to CVT transmission failure and poor acceleration.
Reports of electrical system failures, warning lights, and issues with starting.
Subject of a recall for software issues affecting the FCM system.
Complaint about a seat belt not retracting.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport received good crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side). However, it has 2 recalls for critical safety systems (Forward Collision Avoidance, Electrical System software) and 21 complaints, including 4 crashes and 3 injuries. A notable concern is 3 complaints related to airbag malfunctions, including non-deployment in crashes, which contradicts its crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are related to the AIR BAGS (3 complaints), POWER TRAIN (2 complaints, often CVT transmission failure), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints, including system failures and warning lights). There are also specific complaints about seat belt retraction and engine codes.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
Yes, there are 2 recalls for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. One recall addresses the Forward Collision Avoidance system (adaptive cruise control) and the other is for electrical system software, both of which could increase the risk of a crash or cause unintended braking.
How does the 2018 Outlander Sport perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport received strong NHTSA crash test ratings: 4 stars Overall, 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover. However, real-world complaints about airbag non-deployment raise questions about the consistent performance of safety features.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 Outlander Sport?
When considering a used 2018 Outlander Sport, pay close attention to any illuminated airbag warning lights, check for smooth transmission operation (especially for CVT issues), and ensure all recall repairs have been completed. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to identify potential electrical or powertrain problems.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While offering decent crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of recurring airbag, transmission, and electrical system complaints, and verify that both safety recalls have been addressed to mitigate risks.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The data includes 21 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 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.