2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety Report
2016 Mitsubishi Outlander: Good crash test scores marred by significant powertrain and brake issues, plus a history of recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
Reliability Score
The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander receives a reliability score of 45 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
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Slipping Numerous complaints describe CVT transmission slipping, hesitation during acceleration, transmission warning lights, and complete failure, sometimes requiring the vehicle to be turned off and restarted to regain temporary function. |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Parking Brake Malfunction Multiple recalls and complaints indicate issues with the parking brake binding, failing to engage or disengage properly, and sticking, potentially due to rust or water ingress in brake components. |
High | Common | 20000-70000 miles |
| Hesitation/Loss Of Acceleration Owners report the vehicle hesitating or failing to accelerate as intended, sometimes accompanied by transmission warning lights or shuddering, potentially linked to powertrain control module or transmission issues. |
High | Common | 25000-75000 miles |
| Liftgate Support Strut Failure A recall addresses the potential for liftgate support struts to rupture or fail, posing an injury risk if the liftgate falls unexpectedly. |
Medium | Occasional | 40000-90000 miles |
| Door Latch Malfunction A recall was issued for interior door latches that may not latch securely in high temperatures, potentially leading to doors opening while driving. |
Medium | Occasional | 15000-60000 miles |
| Exterior Lighting Failure Complaints mention frequent replacement of headlights, with some owners reporting complete loss of headlights while driving. |
Medium | Common | 20000-80000 miles |
| Starter Relay Failure A recall addressed defective starter relays that could cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. |
Medium | Occasional | 30000-70000 miles |
| Seat Belt Buckle Interference A recall noted that the second-row center seat belt buckle may interfere with the right-side seat belt buckle, potentially increasing injury risk for an unrestrained occupant. |
Low | Occasional | 20000-70000 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:
The most frequently reported component group, with a significant number of complaints related to transmission issues such as slipping, hesitation, and failure.
Issues related to the service brakes, including problems with the parking brake mechanism, are commonly reported.
Owners frequently report problems with headlights, including premature failure and complete loss of function.
Complaints related to the vehicle's structure, potentially including issues with the liftgate.
A portion of complaints fall into an unspecified category.
Issues with door latches have been reported and were subject to a recall.
Some complaints relate to engine performance, such as stalling or catalytic converter failure.
A small number of complaints mention airbag issues.
Specific complaints about the parking brake mechanism, often related to recalls.
Some owners report steering column vibrations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
Is the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander received good crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), but it has a high number of owner complaints, particularly concerning powertrain and brake issues, and a history of 7 recalls that address potentially safety-critical components.
What are common problems with the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The most reported issues involve the power train, specifically CVT transmission problems like slipping and failure. Other common complaints include parking brake malfunctions, hesitation during acceleration, and frequent exterior lighting issues.
Are there any major recalls for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Yes, there are 7 recalls for the 2016 Outlander, addressing critical systems such as the parking brake, liftgate support struts, seat belt buckles, starter relay, and door latches, some of which could impact vehicle safety.
How reliable is the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander?
Given the high volume of complaints related to powertrain failures and the number of recalls, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander's reliability is questionable, particularly concerning its transmission and braking systems.
What are the risks associated with the reported transmission issues?
The transmission issues, including slipping and hesitation, can lead to a loss of acceleration, stalling, or unexpected behavior while driving, increasing the risk of a crash, especially in traffic or at highway speeds.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander has good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the high frequency of transmission and parking brake issues, as well as a history of 7 recalls. Thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is strongly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander. The data includes 167 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 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 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.