The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced a Mitsubishi recall on August 7. Authorities urge all Mitsubishi drivers across the U.S., especially those who own Outlander and Outlander PHEV SUVs, to check their liftgate gas springs. Reports indicate that over 90,000 vehicles are affected.
Which Mitsubishi Models Are Affected
According to NHTSA and Mitsubishi, the recall covers 91,697 vehicles. These vehicles include:
- 2018–2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid)
- 2014–2020 Mitsubishi Outlander
The recall indicates that manufacturers sold or currently registered the affected vehicles in 27 states, including the District of Columbia. Most of these states are in the Northeast, Midwest, and other cold-weather regions where road salt accelerates the corrosion of metal parts.
The 27 states are: Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Why Mitsubishi Is Recalling These SUVs
The cause of the recall is a defect in the liftgate gas spring cylinders, which are the components that hold the rear hatch open. The NHTSA confirmed that over time, these parts corrode, especially in the states that use heavy amounts of road salt to clear roads during winter.
Due to corrosion buildup, the liftgate gas spring cylinders lose pressure and may weaken to the point of failing. This might cause the part to collapse, causing the liftgate to suddenly slam shut. This could lead to serious injuries to anyone loading or unloading cargo.
Although officials expect the failure to occur in only 1% of all recalled vehicles, they insist that the issue is so serious and therefore the need for immediate action.
How Mitsubishi Plans to Fix the Problem
Mitsubishi plans to notify all affected owners by mail as of October 6, 2025. Drivers are expected to take their vehicles to dealers, who will replace both the left and right liftgate gas springs free of charge. The dealers will replace the parts with updated parts that offer anti-corrosion protection.
The drivers should not have to wait until they receive a letter from them to take action. If you suspect that your vehicle is affected, contact Mitsubishi customer service or schedule an appointment at your dealership.
How to Check If Your SUV Is Part of the Recall
If you cannot tell if your vehicle is among those recalled, you can search your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the NHTSA recall lookup tool. You can find your VIN (a 17-digit code) on your insurance card, registration, or the base of the windshield.
Why Every Outlander Owner Should Pay Attention
Although the liftgate issue may seem minor compared to other defects, such as airbag or engine defects, a falling hatch can cause injuries to the back or head. The defect can be particularly risky for families when loading strollers, groceries, or sports equipment in the rear of their SUV.
Auto safety experts have advised drivers not to ignore the recall even if there are no signs of the defect on their vehicle. This is because the parts may fail over time. Additionally, the repair is free, and therefore, repair costs should not be a reason to ignore.
The Broader Recall Crisis in the Auto Industry
The recent Mitsubishi recall adds to a broader recall crisis in the auto industry. In the past few months, brands like Stellantis (the maker of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep), Kia, and Ford have recalled hundreds of thousands of vehicles due to various defects.
All recalls have underscored the importance of addressing even minor defects since all parts are crucial in everyday use.
Conclusion
If you own a 2014–2020 Outlander or a 2018–2022 Outlander PHEV, take a few minutes and run your VIN through the NHTSA recall checker. If your car is part of the recall, take it to a Mitsubishi dealer and they will repair the defect for free. Do not wait until the liftgate fails.