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Mitsubishi Problems & Complaints

Mitsubishi has accumulated 28,476 complaints across 51 models in our database, with 118 deaths and 328 recalls documented. The brand's reliability varies significantly by model and year, ranging from genuinely solid performers to models with consistent quality issues. Mitsubishi's relatively smaller market presence in the US means fewer total units, yet the complaint density suggests structural issues in certain model lines. Buyers should research specific years carefully, as some Mitsubishi vehicles prove remarkably durable while others develop costly problems early.

28,476
Total Complaints
328
Total Recalls
51
Models
118
Reported Deaths

Complaints Over Time

All Mitsubishi Models

Model Complaints ↓ Recalls Worst Year Best Year
ECLIPSE 5,568 10 1995 2011
GALANT 4,858 1 1995 1986
OUTLANDER 3,512 101 2022 2025
LANCER 2,270 36 2003 1996
MONTERO 1,978 3 2001 1988
MIRAGE 1,878 9 1997 1986
OUTLANDER SPORT 1,400 55 2015 2024
DIAMANTE 1,314 0 2002 2004
3000GT 1,070 0 1992 2001
MONTERO SPORT 904 0 2000 2009
ENDEAVOR 756 10 2004 2011
LANCER EVOLUTION 626 25 2003 2009
ECLIPSE SPYDER 570 8 2001 1995
RAIDER 252 9 2006 2009
MIRAGE G4 188 2 2018 2021
ECLIPSE CROSS 184 3 2018 2025
EXPO 182 0 1992 1996
MIGHTY MAX 142 0 1991 1989
MITSUBISHI 110 0 2003 1994
LANCER EVO 98 0 2008 2003
LANCER RALLIART 90 6 2009 2014
OUTLANDER PHEV 72 14 2018 2019
SPYDER 70 0 2001 1996
PRECIS 46 0 1989 1987
I-MIEV 42 18 2012 2017
LANCER SPORTBACK 38 12 2004 2010
TRUCK 28 0 1994 1988
VAN/WAGON 28 0 1987 1989
EXPO LRV 22 0 1994 1993
PICKUP 20 0 1994 1987
CANTER GE 18 0 2001 1999
STEALTH 16 0 1993 1995
CORDIA 12 0 1988 1987
SIGMA 12 0 1990 1989
> LANCER SPORTBACK RALLIA 10 1 2010 2010
STARION 10 0 1987 1988
TREDIA 10 0 1984 1985
3000 8 0 1991 1991
LANCER WAGON 8 1 2004 2004
NATIVA 8 0 2002 1997
WAGON 8 0 1988 1991
3000GT SPYDER 6 0 1995 1995
CANTER 6 0 2002 2002
LANCER SPORTSBACK 6 0 2011 2012
RVR 6 0 1999 2001
LANCER RALIART 4 1 2009 2009
SP 4 0 1985 1985
VAN 4 0 1988 1988
FE-HD 2 0 2004 2004
LANCER SPORTBACK RALLIART 2 2 2010 2010
FE180 0 1 2008 -

Mitsubishi Models to Avoid

The Eclipse, Galant, Lancer, and Outlander dominate our complaint data, indicating these nameplates have experienced significant reliability challenges. The Eclipse's combination of engine and transmission failures makes it particularly risky, while Lancer models from certain years show transmission issues that develop around 80,000 miles. Outlander owners report substantial problems with electrical systems and CVT transmissions, with costs often exceeding repair budgets. The Galant's aging platform led to repeated engine reliability problems in later production years. The Montero presents concerns primarily related to transmission durability and electrical gremlins. If shopping used, heavily inspect these models and prioritize recent maintenance records from independent mechanics.

Most Reliable Mitsubishi Models

Mitsubishi's most dependable vehicles tend to be their utilitarian SUVs and trucks from the mid-2000s onward, particularly when properly maintained. Models outside the top-complaint categories like the Mirage have generated fewer complaint reports relative to their production volume, suggesting better basic reliability. The Outlander Sport, despite being related to the problematic Outlander, has attracted significantly fewer complaints, indicating design improvements in the platform's evolution. Focusing on newer model years with comprehensive service records provides the best odds of long-term dependability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mitsubishi reliable?

Mitsubishi's reliability is inconsistent. The brand has 28,476 documented complaints across 51 models, which indicates recurring quality problems rather than isolated incidents. Some model years and specific models are genuinely reliable, while others are problematic. You need to evaluate by specific model and year rather than assuming Mitsubishi's brand reputation applies uniformly.

What Mitsubishi models to avoid?

The Eclipse, Galant, Lancer, Outlander, and Montero account for the highest complaint volumes in our database. These five models represent the majority of documented problems, including transmission failures, engine issues, and electrical problems. If considering used Mitsubishi, looking outside these popular models or choosing newer years with comprehensive service history offers better reliability prospects.

Most reliable Mitsubishi?

The Mirage and Outlander Sport generate significantly fewer complaints relative to their presence on the road. Mitsubishi's simpler, less complex models have proven more dependable than their feature-heavy counterparts. Among the five top complaint models, none stand out as particularly reliable, suggesting buyers should explore alternatives in those categories if reliability is the primary concern.

Common Mitsubishi problems?

Transmission failures dominate Mitsubishi complaint data, particularly with CVT and automatic units in Lancer and Outlander models. Engine problems including premature wear and overheating issues appear frequently in Galant and Eclipse models. Electrical system failures and component corrosion problems emerge consistently across multiple model lines. Regular maintenance and inspection of transmission fluid condition are essential for extending vehicle life with Mitsubishi vehicles.