Mitsubishi has issued a recall for about 77,000 Outlander Sport SUVs from model years 2019 through 2022 because of a transmission programming defect that can cause the engine to stall at highway speed. In a worst-case scenario, the fault can lead to engine damage. Thankfully, the repair is a simple matter of uploading new software.
In documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Mitsubishi explains that “inappropriate software programming” can cause the transmission to shift down to the lowest “gear” of its continuously variable transmission (CVT) at speed. “If this condition occurs at speeds exceeding 62 mph, the result may be a potential over-rev situation that may cause engine damage,” Mitsubishi says.
Dealers will correct the problem by installing new software that should eliminate the risk. Owners who have paid to repair engine damage caused by the defect may be eligible for reimbursement. Mitsubishi will outline how to apply in a letter to owners later this month.
Recall repairs are always free. Manufacturers attempt to contact every owner, but they don’t always reach them all with the news. Find out if your car has ever been recalled at our recall center.
