NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls and 22 owner complaints for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Most complaints involve electrical system (8) and air bags (6). The EPA rates it 25–27 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall.
Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Outlander Sport, 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross, and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system that detects pedestrians. Due to incorrect software, the FCM-ECU (Electronic Control Unit) may apply braking for longer than needed, even after a pedestrian is no longer detected.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system and 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross vehicles and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system and/or an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system. The software for the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may be incorrect, possibly preventing the intervention of a safety system such as automatic emergency braking, Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), or the Brake Auto Hold (BAH) function when any of these systems are in use.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Complaints for each Outlander Sport model year we’ve synced.
| Model year | NHTSA complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 85 |
| 2012 | 35 |
| 2013 | 67 |
| 2014 | 86 |
| 2015 | 236 |
| 2016 | 163 |
| 2017 | 73 |
| 2018 | 22 |
| 2019 | 47 |
| 2020 | 26 |
| 2021 | 19 |
| 2022 | 11 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2025 | 1 |
| 2026 | 3 |
“I am reporting an ongoing intermittent electrical problem with the ETACS (Electronic Time and Alarm Control System) or a potentially related electrical control circuit in my 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport LE. Multiple accessories, including the backup camera, power mirrors, radio, and USB/accessory power outlet, intermittently lose power and stop functioning together. These components may randomly begin working again coming on and off while driving. This is particularly concerning because these are not simply convenience features. When the backup camera stops working, the driver loses an important visual aid when reversing, increasing the risk of striking pedestrians, children, objects, or other vehicles, particularly in areas with limited visibility. When the power mirrors stop working, the driver may be unable to properly adjust or reposition the mirrors to maintain adequate visibility of surrounding traffic, creating dangerous blind spots when changing lanes, merging, or backing up. The fact that multiple unrelated accessories fail simultaneously suggests a possible common electrical supply, relay, wiring, grounding, or ETACS control-module problem rather…”
“Air bag symbol is lit on dash. Technicians unable to find issue, nor were they able to reset light. I feel the importance of said system functioning properly needs addressed. Not just we e can't find what is wrong.Nothing else we can do. No, that's b s”
“I am filing this complaint regarding serious safety issues with my 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, VIN: [XXX] , purchased from Carvana in 2019. Recurring transmission problems have created a significant safety risk for me and others. About a year after purchase, the vehicle’s transmission began failing, and I replaced it in 2021. Despite this, the transmission warning light activates intermittently in stop-and-go traffic, and now the vehicle has started stalling on highways, creating a critical hazard by suddenly losing power. In 2021, I took the vehicle to a now-closed Mitsubishi dealership in Brooklyn, where I was informed that this transmission issue was not covered, despite it being a drivetrain problem that should have been under the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. My research suggests this model may have a Transmission Control Unit (CVT-ECU) defect, potentially causing stalling. Carvana has stated this issue is Mitsubishi’s responsibility, as it is likely manufacturing-related rather than due to prior use. Given Carvana’s stance and the severe safety implications of stalling, I urge NHTSA to investigate if this vehicle, or others with similar…”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outlander Sport 2WD Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 24 | 30 | 27 | $2,200 | 328 |
| Outlander Sport 4WD Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · 4-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 26 | $2,300 | 343 |
| Outlander Sport 2WD Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.4 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 25 | $2,400 | 353 |
| Outlander Sport 2WD Man 5-spd, 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 25 | $2,400 | 347 |
| Outlander Sport 4WD Auto (AV-S6), 4 cyl, 2.4 L · 4-Wheel Drive | 23 | 28 | 25 | $2,400 | 353 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
2 safety recalls as of Nov 12, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 22 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (8), air bags (6), power train (5). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport at 25–27 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (5 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 4 out of 5 stars overall.