2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety Report
2015 Mitsubishi Outlander: Strong crash test scores marred by significant powertrain and recall issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander
Reliability Score
The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Malfunction Numerous complaints detail CVT transmission failures, hesitation during acceleration, loss of power, and unexpected downshifting, often leading to the vehicle becoming undrivable. |
High | Common | 30000-100000 miles |
| Liftgate Support Strut Failure Recall issued for potential rupture of gas spring cylinders or unexpected falling of the liftgate, posing an injury risk. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Parking Brake Malfunction Recall due to water entering rear brake calipers, potentially causing the parking brake actuator shaft to bind, leading to improper engagement or disengagement. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Second-Row Center Seat Belt Buckle Interference Recall for potential interference of the second-row center seat belt buckle, increasing the risk of injury for an unrestrained occupant in a crash. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Starter Relay Defect Recall for defective starter relays that could cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Hesitation/Stalling Complaints indicate hesitation upon acceleration, stalling while driving, and failure to shift into reverse, often linked to powertrain issues. |
High | Common | 20000-80000 miles |
| Tire Tread Separation One specific complaint details tread separation on multiple tires, causing instability while driving. |
High | Rare | 30000-50000 miles |
| Backup Camera System Failure Reports of the backup camera screen going blank, impacting visibility during reversing. |
Low | Occasional | 40000-70000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander:
The most frequently reported component group, encompassing issues like transmission failure, hesitation, and loss of power.
Complaints related to engine performance, including stalling and compressor failure.
Issues related to the electrical system, including starter relays and potential battery/system resets.
Complaints related to the braking system, potentially linked to parking brake recall issues.
One concerning report of an airbag deploying during an accident, causing injury.
Complaints related to inconsistent vehicle speed control, often tied to powertrain hesitation.
Issues reported within the fuel or propulsion system, sometimes associated with engine performance problems.
A portion of complaints fall into an 'unknown or other' category, making specific analysis difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander
Is the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander received good crash test ratings (4-5 stars). However, it has a significant number of complaints (231) and recalls (4), particularly concerning powertrain issues like CVT failure and engine stalling, which could impact its overall safety in real-world driving.
What are common problems with the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The most common problems reported are related to the powertrain, specifically CVT transmission failures, hesitation during acceleration, and loss of power. Engine issues, electrical system problems, and brake system concerns are also noted.
Are there any major recalls for the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Yes, there are 4 recalls. These address critical safety components including the parking brake, rear seat belt buckles, liftgate support struts, and a starter relay that could cause the engine to stall.
How reliable is the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The reliability appears to be a concern, primarily due to the high frequency of powertrain issues, especially with the CVT transmission. While crashworthiness is good, the number of complaints suggests potential long-term reliability challenges.
What should I be aware of before buying a used 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Be aware of the high incidence of CVT transmission problems, which can be costly to repair. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle's maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the powertrain.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander scores well in crash tests, potential buyers should be highly cautious due to prevalent powertrain issues, particularly CVT transmission failures, and a history of significant recalls. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is strongly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander. The data includes 231 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander 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.