Used Guide: 2014-2021 Mitsubishi Outlander

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I’ve put a lot of miles on various Mitsubishi Outlanders over the years — and in my Northern Ontario locale, Mitsubishi’s top crossover is a popular sight on our roads.  Many shoppers gravitate towards the model for its confidence-enhancing AWD system, lengthy warranty coverage, and strong blend of pricing and feature content. 

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The last complete generation of the Mitsubishi Outlander ran model years 2014-2021 inclusive. An all-new Outlander came online for model-year 2022, replacing its predecessor and marking that machine’s shift fully into used crossover territory. Several updates were applied throughout this generation Outlander, including a restyle, a new transmission, and the addition of new value-adding feature content. 

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From model-year 2016 and on, a major overhaul gave the Mitsubishi Outlander a host of improvements to its looks, driveline, and comfort. The automaker put a keen focus on reducing noise and vibration levels around a re-tuned suspension system and new driveline components, taking the Outlander’s driving experience to new levels of refinement.

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Follow the related links for more information, specs, pricing, news and reviews on the Mitsubishi Outlander over the years, and read on for five tips to help you find the best used Outlander you can for your dollar. 

Tip #1: Warranty

The Outlander’s 10-year warranty attracts plenty of shoppers, both new and used. When shopping second-hand, remember that a warranty is a two-way agreement, and the vehicle’s previous owner(s) have a role to play in keeping that warranty in good standing.

The warranty does not cover damage or wear caused by a failure to maintain or inspect the vehicle on a regular basis, so if past owners didn’t care for it properly, you could be on the hook with an unpleasant surprise if warranty work is required.

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To prevent unpleasant surprises, make sure all service records are available, and that there are no gaps in the vehicle’s service history or documentation. A unit that’s familiar to its dealership, and has been serviced there regularly, is a great starting point.

Tip #2: Paint and Finish

Some owners have complained of poor durability from the paint finish on their Outlander. Most have not. 

On your test-drive, pay close attention to the condition of the Outlander’s painted surfaces, being on the lookout for chips, dents, rust or peeling.

Damage to a vehicle’s painted surfaces can invite rust, which costs you money. Many owners recommend protective implements like bug protectors and mud flaps to help keep the paint finish in top condition. Remember to repair any subsequent paint chips or deep scratches early, to help prevent rust formation.

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Tip #3: Transmission

Some owners have reported trouble from the Outlander’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Most have not. 

Some units from this generation were also recalled to fix latent safety defects with their transmissions, which may require software reprogramming of the transmission’s computer brain.

A used Outlander that’s been regularly serviced by its dealer has likely had this recall performed already, if required. Shoppers after maximum peace of mind should also ensure that any previous servicing or repair to the vehicle’s transmission has been carried out in a dealer setting. 

This transmission requires very little maintenance, but that maintenance is important and should only be tackled by a trained technician with proper training and equipment.

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Tip #4: Fluid Leaks

Some owners have experienced leaks of engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid. Others have had 2014 model year units recalled to address an internal powertrain fluid leak that could result in a safety concern, or driveline damage. Most have not.

Leaks like these can have various causes, and though rare, some of them are serious. They can result in powertrain damage, or put your safety at risk. 

Thankfully, fluid leaks are easily detected during a routine Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI). Detecting a fluid leak or similar issue before you buy a second-hand Mitsubishi Outlander could save you thousands of dollars. 

Tip #5: The PHEV

This generation Outlander was available with a Plug In Hybrid (PHEV) driveline, which uses electrification to dramatically reduce fuel consumption and enable all-electric driving. The Outlander PHEV is the best-selling PHEV model in Canada. 

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If you’re shopping for a used Outlander PHEV, be sure to check all charging cables and provisions, to be sure the vehicle’s standard 12-volt battery is in tip-top shape, and have a PHEV-trained technician at a dealership perform a mechanical and electronic inspection of the vehicle, for maximum peace of mind.

For more information on buying a second-hand Outlander PHEV, and a few alternatives, click here.

Final Thought

These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test-drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Mitsubishi Outlander.