2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety Report
2020 Mitsubishi Outlander: Good crash test scores but concerning electrical and structural complaints and recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
Reliability Score
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander receives a reliability score of 65 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 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liftgate Support Device Failure Recall for a gas spring cylinder rupture or liftgate falling unexpectedly, increasing injury risk. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Incorrectly Assembled Rear Seat Belts Recall for right side second-row seat belts that may not properly restrain occupants, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Infotainment/Touchscreen Malfunction Multiple reports of the touchscreen becoming inoperative, affecting control of radio, navigation, climate, and hands-free phone usage, posing a distraction and safety hazard. |
Medium | Common | 10000-60000 miles |
| Electrical System Errors Complaints of various dashboard warning lights illuminating (e.g., brake, lane departure, blind spot), loss of motive power, and system malfunctions without clear cause. |
Medium | Common | 5000-50000 miles |
| Lock Actuator Failure Repeated failures of door lock actuators, affecting remote key fob operation and manual locking/unlocking. |
Low | Common | 20000-50000 miles |
| Airbag System Malfunction Reports of airbag system 'Service Required' warnings and, in one severe crash, failure to deploy. |
High | Rare | 1000-20000 miles |
| Brake System Issues Complaints of brake system warnings and 'brakes giving out'. |
High | Rare | 10000-40000 miles |
| Sunroof Glass Shattering Isolated incident of sunroof glass shattering unexpectedly. |
Medium | Rare | 10000-30000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander:
Frequent issues reported include dashboard warning lights (brake, lane departure), system errors, and loss of power.
General electrical system malfunctions not specifically categorized.
Complaints related to airbag system warnings and, in one instance, non-deployment during a crash.
Concerns related to structural components, including liftgate supports and potential issues with seat mounting.
Unspecified issues reported by owners.
Issues related to the forward collision avoidance system, including false warnings and braking.
Problems involving the service brakes in conjunction with the forward collision avoidance system.
Electrical issues affecting seat adjustment mechanisms.
Complaints related to the vehicle's wheels.
Reports of engine knocking, bucking, and transmission warning lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
Is the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander received good crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, there are a significant number of owner complaints, particularly concerning electrical systems and airbags, and two safety recalls that could impact safety.
What are common problems with the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The most reported issues include problems with the electrical system (dashboard warnings, power loss), the infotainment touchscreen malfunctioning, and door lock actuator failures. Airbag system warnings and potential brake issues have also been noted.
What recalls affect the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
There are two recalls: one for the liftgate support device potentially failing and another for rear seat belts that may have been incorrectly assembled, posing a risk of inadequate restraint in a crash.
How reliable is the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?
While crash test performance is strong, the frequency of electrical system complaints, touchscreen failures, and the existence of two recalls suggest potential reliability concerns that buyers should consider.
Are there any major safety defects reported?
Major reported safety concerns include potential airbag system malfunctions (warnings and non-deployment), brake system issues, and the risk of the liftgate falling unexpectedly due to the recall.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Consider the strong crash test ratings, but be aware of frequent electrical and touchscreen issues, and ensure any open recalls have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. The data includes 27 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander an overall safety rating of 5 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.