VIN REPORT

JA4AR3AU3LU0292712020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport

3of 100
Low Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
1
1 campaign found
Safety Grade
C+
78/100 composite
Complaints
26
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
6 yrs
Made in JAPAN
BUYPurchase Verdict

2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There is 1 open recall on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 26 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport

2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There is 1 open recall on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 26 owner complaints include 1 reported injury, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 1 open recall — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 1 injury reported across 26 owner complaints
  • Common owner-reported issues: stalling, check engine light, electrical problems
  • Engine/Powertrain is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
Owner Complaint Intelligence

26 owner complaints filed — top areas: Engine/Powertrain (42%), Other (23%), Electrical (19%). Common issues: stalling, check engine light, electrical problems. 1 crash reported.

3
of 100
Low Risk
Low risk profile — minor signals only, likely routine.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
1 Contributing Risk Factor
1 model-wide recall on record
+3
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
MITSUBISHI
Model
Outlander Sport
Year
2020
Trim / Series
Wagon body style
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 2L 148 hp
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Doors
5
Manufacturer
MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC)
Assembly
MIZUSHIMA, OKAYAMA, JAPAN
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: MIZUSHIMA, OKAYAMA

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 MIZUSHIMA, OKAYAMA

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

C+
Score: 78/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety28/30
Complaint History30/30
5/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

75/100
Comprehensive
13 of 20 safety features detected

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Engine/Powertrain
1 recall11 complaints

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision WarningStandard
Automatic Emergency BrakingStandard
Pedestrian AEBStandard
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep AssistStandard
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot MonitoringStandard
Rear Cross Traffic AlertStandard
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive HeadlightsStandard
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless IgnitionStandard
Recalls1

Deferred Failure Risk

Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones

54/100
Warning Deferred Risk
The engine/powertrain system is the most-reported problem for the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport — 11 NHTSA complaints (42% of all filings). Prioritize it in a pre-purchase inspection.
No odometer data on record. Items marked VERIFY below are age-based maintenance reminders — general guidance, not confirmed findings for this specific vehicle. Confirm actual mileage and service history with the seller.
CASCADECriticalFailure Cascade
Cascade already triggered — downstream damage likely in progress
Have a specialist inspect all systems connected to the failed component before purchase
One failed component has created stress on connected systems. Repair costs compound quickly — a $500 fix can become $3,000+ if cascade damage is ignored.
COMMONLY REPORTEDCriticalEngine/Powertrain
11 owner complaints · 42% of all filings
Inspect the engine/powertrain system before purchase — the most-reported problem for the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport
Owners of the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
COMMONLY REPORTEDHighElectrical
5 owner complaints · 19% of all filings
Inspect the electrical system before purchase — the 2nd most-reported problem for the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport
Owners of the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport report electrical issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
COMMONLY REPORTEDModerateSafety Systems
4 owner complaints · 15% of all filings
Inspect the safety systems system before purchase — the 3rd most-reported problem for the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport
Owners of the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport report safety systems issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
VERIFYCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify timing chain tensioner service history with the seller
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
VERIFYCriticalWater Pump
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify water pump service history with the seller
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
VERIFYHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Typical interval: 60,000 mi / 5 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify transmission fluid / service service history with the seller
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
VERIFYHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Typical interval: 50,000 mi / 4 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify differential / transfer case fluid service history with the seller
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
VERIFYHighCoolant Flush
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 5 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify coolant flush service history with the seller
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
VERIFYModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify spark plugs (iridium/platinum) service history with the seller
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
VERIFYModerateFuel Injectors
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify fuel injectors service history with the seller
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

1 RECALL
1found

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 1 recall below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 1 recall is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

64%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

MITSUBISHI Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
80%Poor

MITSUBISHI has a below-average recall completion rate (80%). Open recalls on this vehicle may go unaddressed longer than average (~24 months). Verify completion before purchase.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~24 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
24mo
#22V563000
Feb 2022

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

SummaryMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with continuously variable transmissions and mechanical key ignition systems. A software error in the transmission control unit (CVT-ECU) may incorrectly reduce the transmission gear ratio at high speeds, which can result in an engine stall.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAn engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

Recall Intelligence

Detailed analysis of recall history and severity

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
4.5yr open
4 yrs ago
02/08/2022
Engine/Powertrain
0
Part Replacements
1
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
1 recall is over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.

Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix

RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

Owner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components

100% of complaints about "POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE" were filed AFTER recall campaign 22V563000 (2022-02-08) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
100% post-recall
Recall: 2022-02-080 before · 7 after#22V563000

Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.

Manufacturer Recall Response Time

Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance

1.3yr
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2020-10-23 · Recall issued: 2022-02-08

16 months elapsed between first complaint and recall issuance — a significant delay in consumer protection.

Complaints26

Complaint Intelligence

26 complaints analyzed across 4 system categories

Engine/Powertrain
11
Other
1 crash1 inj6
Electrical
5
Safety Systems
4
2020
3
2021
4
2022
3
2023
5
2024
8
2025
2
2026
1
2% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Declining -55%
5
Last 24 months
11
Prior 24 months
PEAKS SPRING (MAR–MAY)

38% of complaints filed in Mar & Apr — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling4
Electrical failure4
Fire/smoke3
Conditions Reported
Rain/wet (5)Highway/high-speed (3)Startup (2)Parking/low-speed (1)Cold weather (1)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

26 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

26found
1
Crash
1
Injury
ODI #11721643POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and failed to accelerate as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted, but the failure persisted after driving for more than an hour. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and a dealer, but the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle received a tune-up, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V563000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

ODI #11701428POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

The vehicle has exhibited recurring ignition-system and powertrain malfunctions involving repeated ignition-coil failures, engine misfires, and catalyst-system efficiency faults. These issues cause intermittent loss of power, hesitation during acceleration, and unstable engine performance. The malfunction has occurred multiple times since the date of purchase and has been confirmed through diagnostic trouble codes related to misfire events and catalyst-system operation. A certified Mitsubishi dealership confirmed that the failure pattern aligns with an active manufacturer recall and corresponding Technical Service Bulletin affecting the same model year, engine type (4B11), and vehicle platform. I was informed that the vehicle “falls under” the same defect pattern listed in the current recall/TSB; however, because the vehicle no longer has an active factory warranty, the dealership stated they would have to sell the repair parts rather than process the issue under recall or warranty coverage. Despite this, the same safety-related symptoms described in the recall and TSB continue to occur. The defect presents a safety hazard because the vehicle may lose power or fail to accelerate when entering traffic, merging, or navigating intersections. Warning indicators have appeared repeatedly, including the check engine light and catalyst-system warnings. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by authorized service personnel on multiple occasions. All components and diagnostic documentation are available for inspection upon request.

ODI #11699963ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The touchscreen for the main infotainment system is becoming unresponsive. It’s impossible to use the most basic functions while driving without being distracted. It’s caused me to swerve & almost lose control of the vehicle on multiple occasions— as it distracted me from driving because initially the screen had spotty functionality (without any sort of warning, so it seemed like user error). There is currently a service notice from Mitsubishi sent out to all owners of Outlander and Outlander Sports (MY 2020 thru 2022) to replace these units under warranty because of a manufacturing defect. My vehicle is eligible for this, and I’m on the wait list, but that’s the where the bigger problem begins: My local Mitsubishi dealership estimated a 4 month wait period — this was back on 5/9/25; it’s now 11/17/25 so it’s actually been over 6 months. Given that they never called me since May, I called them last week to check the status and they said they do not have an estimated time frame for when the infotainment unit will be replaced. A little research online shows this problem is widespread; consumer websites and other general forums have plenty of people detailing similar experiences with this problem and frustration with how Mitsubishi is handling it. To make matters worse, there is only one way to contact Mitsubishi Motors (aside from the dealership) — it’s the basic customer service USA phone number. I have not talked to anyone there because they simply do not answer. And there are no email addresses available either. I sincerely believe this issue needs to be addressed as a safety recall, as it is obviously a distraction while driving and needs to be taken with more priority. The fact they act like they are volunteering to fix this problem, and at their own leisurely pace, is wrong and grounds for a class action lawsuit. This is not about money — this is about people’s safety, and stopping a company from doing whatever they want without any sort of accountability.

ODI #11619031ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

So my push to start has to be pushed twice in order to crank the vehicle and when I first got the car about 9 months ago it didn’t do that and about since January the computer system failed twice and it showed a message about the computer system don’t remember exactly what it said and took a 1/2 to a hour to get it to come back one

ODI #11618447POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle almost stalled. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted to schedule an appointment for a recall repair; however, the contact was unable to take the vehicle to a dealer to have the vehicle diagnosed. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V563000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 72,551.

ODI #11594010ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly hesitated before returning to normal functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to determine a cause for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 45,000.

ODI #11579493ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The fuel pump is failing causing the car to shut down randomly.

ODI #11576700POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact received notification NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V563000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to start. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact stated while waiting for the recall remedy, other electrical and mechanical failure occurred. The failure mileage was unknown.

ODI #11574796UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Master light came on and had me sign power of attorney papers and no lawyer or notary was present

ODI #11569636ENGINE

The timing chain loose up and cause car to not start up

ODI #11565665ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

Dec 1,2023 tried to stop and the brakes was grinding and the milage goes up and down as you are driving and it says routine maintenance required when you put the key in to start the outlander as got it from Todd Judy ford in Charleston WV and according to Mitsubishi toll free number it is not in my name [XXX] or my aunt's name [XXX] and they delivered it on September 15, 2023 and took her name and put it through the wv DMV with my insurance application number and [XXX] don't have a driver's license just a wv I'd and would not go over the paperwork that she was signing and they said they will mail us a copy of the paperwork but we have never gotten it through the mail and classified it as a motorcycle wv DMV title number is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11562682POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

I have 50,000 miles I’m the original owner, bought it new in 2020, I was leaving work, started my car, blue smoke came out my exhaust, when i drove home from work, on inclines, the car sputters & stalls like it’s about to lose power, accompanied by thick blue smoke, and engine noise. I suspect it’s the piston rings in the cylinder head or valve seals are bad. My car has been parked for months, dealership wants to charge me a diagnostic fee, i take Uber or Lyft to work mind you i have an open loan on this car that I’m still paying. I think Mitsubishi used poor quality parts, piston rings don’t go bad at 50,000 miles neither does valve seals. PLEASE HELP, IM PAYING FOR A CAR I CANT DRIVE.

ODI #11532655POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated while driving approximately 40-70 MPH, the vehicle was shaking abnormally and stalled. The check engine warning light illuminated on and off. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the CVT-ECU software needed to be updated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V563000 (Power Train). The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.

ODI #11514046ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle deaccelerated unintendedly and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled into a gas station. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the spark plug was fractured, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 81,000.

ODI #11513600ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Radio digitizer touch screen not working - can not pair Bluetooth phone to comply with hands free laws. Unable to access some vehicle settings. Dealer said this is a very common issue - warranty expires at 36,000 miles and repair cost is $3,000.00 !

ODI #11505288ENGINE

Engine is affected, vehicle is struggling at low speeds when pressing the gas.

ODI #11461721SEAT BELTS

The buckles for the side seats in the rear are So short they're almost hidden inside the seat making it difficult for anyone who is not child sized to find and/or buckle. I do ride share and this is an issue for 90% of my rides.

ODI #11459826UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The catalytic converter was stolen. This is a risk the air pollution and the malfunction of other sensors that make cause the car to be unsafe to drive. The part can be easily removed and Mitsubishi refuses to add any safety or security to prevent further theft.

ODI #11458572SEAT BELTS

The rear passenger seat belt is way down in the seat and I have tried everything to get it to pull out more. I don't know what it could be, but it's almost as if the seat belt buckle is too short.

ODI #11436196ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I'm driving at 40 miles per hour and I turn off the radio and the lights on my board but it's still walking, then I parked to inspect it I turned it off and I wanted to turn it on and I didn't want to. Then I put the key in the glove box where the radio frequency of the ship is programmed or sent and it turned on in a while it gives me a warnin to check the electrical system on my board and this happened to me 3 times a day

ODI #11431041UNKNOWN OR OTHERCRASH

5/14/2021 Vehicle parked on a hill 45 minutes before it began to roll and flipped over. Car was in park and emergency break was engaged during the time of the incident. This is a hazard and could cause great bodily harm or death. I have children and they could have been in the car at the time of the malfunction . The vehicle was inspected by a police officer who confirmed the vehicle emergency break malfunctioned releasing the car down the hill. The car would jump when you breaking, but no warning lights were on before the incident

ODI #11414201AIR BAGS

THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG COVER OPENED/LOOSE. THE CAR IS NOT IN ANY ACCIDENT AT ALL.

ODI #11406316UNKNOWN OR OTHER

DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ON CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 80 MILES AN HR, THE CAR SHUT OFF THEN TRIED TO RESTART ITSELF. THE DEALER IN JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA COULD NOT DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THIS TO HAPPEN. UPON INSPECTION IT WAS DETERMINED THAT ALL OF THE EXHAUST VALVES WERE DAMAGED. THEY ARE REPAIRING THIS BUT CANNOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE. THIS IS A BIG CONCERN FOR ME.

ODI #11375931FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND A APPROACHING ANOTHER VEHICLE, PERSON BICYCLE OR OBJECT, THE FCM, FORWARD COLLISION MITIGATION SYSTEM IS SUPPOSE TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN AND EVENTUALLY STOP THE VEHICLE AND GIVE AND AUDIBLE ALERT. IT DOES NOTHING. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO CERRITOS MITSUBISHI IN CALIFORNIA AND ASKED THEM TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THEY CONNECTED THE VEHICLE TO THEIR COMPUTER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND A CODE CAME BACK UNDER SYSTEM NAME: FCM/LDW/AHB, AND UNDER DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE C1809 (SYSTEM TEMPORARY NOT AVAILABLE). I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THEY NEEDED ME TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE AND THEY NEEDED TO CALL MITSUBISHI TO FIND OUT WHAT THAT CODE WAS FOR. THEY CALL ME BACK THAT EVENING AND SAID THE VEHICLE WAS READY TO BE PICKED UP AND SAID IT WAS WORKING FINE. I WENT OUT ON A TEST DRIVE WITH THE HEAD MECHANIC THE FCM WAS STILL DOING THE SAME THING AND HE SAID HE COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM WITH THE SYSTEM. I SUSPECT THAT THEY JUST CLEARED THE CODE AND GAVE THE VEHICLE BACK TO ME. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO PUENTA HILLS MITSUBISHI (WHERE I HAD PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM) AND LEFT IT OVER THE WEEKEND. I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THEY NEEDED ME TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE AND THEY NEEDED TO CALL MITSUBISHI TO FIND OUT WHAT THAT CODE WAS FOR, AGAIN. THEY CALL ME BACK THAT EVENING AND SAID THE VEHICLE WAS READY TO BE PICKED UP AND SAID THEY DROVE IT AND COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM. THE FCM (FORWARD COLLISION MITIGATION) STILL DOES NOT SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN AND EVENTUALLY STOP THE VEHICLE OR GIVE AND AUDIBLE ALERT. IT DOES NOTHING. RECALL NUMBER 18V621000 RECALL DATE 09/14/2018 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: SOFTWARE MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC. (MMNA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN 2018 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A FORWARD COLLISION MITIGATION (FCM) CONSEQUENCE IF THE SAFETY SYSTEMS DO NOT FUNCTION AS INTENDED, IT CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH

ODI #11374737SEAT BELTS

THE SEAT BELT ON THE BACK PASSAGE SEAT DOESN'T COME OUT. IT LIKE THAT BUCKLE IS TOO SHORT, WHICH MAKE IT HARD TO BUCKLE UP.

ODI #11365861UNKNOWN OR OTHER1 INJURY

IN EARLY MORNING AFTER RETURNING FROM DR. APPOINTMENT WHILE TRAVELING WEST ON I8 I WAS IN BETWEEN 2 TRACTOR TRAILERS WAS 3 TRACTOR TRAILERS BEING PASSED IN SLOW LANE ALL WERE GOING 75MPH OR SO WHEN I GOT TO MIDDLE SEMI..ALL SUDDEN THE 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER 3300MILES 1.5 MONTHS OLD ...SHUT DOWN... NUTHING THEN IT JUMPED TO RIGHT AND I THOUGHT I WAS GOING UNDER SEMIS TRAILER I GRASPED STEERING WHEEL WITH RIGHT HAND AND TRIED TO KEEP VEHICLE GOING STRAIGHT IN MY LANE BUT BY THEN I WAS 2FT FROM TRAILER AND ALL SUDDEN THE CAR STARTED SHUDDERING VIOLENTLY AND WHEELS ( FRONT SEEMED TO LOCK UP AND THE A SUPER LOUD BANGING AND METAL AND I COULD HEAR PARTS AND PIECES SOUNDED LIKE THEY WERE FLYING ALLOVER AND BY THIS TIME SEMIS THAT WATCHED IT ALL HAPPEN SLOWED AND I WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL ALTHOUGH THE INTERIOR FILLED WITH SMOKE AND WAS HARD TO SEE OUT WINDOWS I HAD NO POWER IT CAME ON FOR SPLIT SECOND THEN OFF IGOT TO SIDE OF HIGHWAY AND STOPPED ..TOOK A FEW MOMENTS TO COMPILE MYSELF BEFORE GETTING OUT DIDNT WAIT LONG MABY 5 SECOND ALL THIS HAPPENED IN MOMENTS .I'M 60 AND HAVE NEVER EVER FELT A BLOW LIKE THIS .THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THESE VEHICLES .MITSUBISHI CAME AND GRABBED IT WITH IN 1.5 HOURS TOOK IT TO CASA GRANDE IV ASKED THEM TONIGHT TO DONT TOUCH THE CAR YET. WEATHER THEY WILL OR NOT I DONT KNOW I THINK IT NEEDS TO BE SEVERELY LOOKED AT BY NTSB.. CONTACT ME ASAP BEFORE THEY TRY TO COVER IT .. I WAS GOING STRAIGHT AND HOLDING WHEEL WITH JUST A COUPLE FINGERS WITH LEFT HAND .WHEN ALL HELL WENT WRONG. THERES 1000 FT OF MARKS FROM FLUIDS AT MILE MARKER 95.1 IN FAST LANE OF AZ I8 WEST BOUND AND PROBABLY PIECES OF VEHICLE DEF OIL OF SOME TYPE FOR 1000 FT OR HUNDREDS ANYWAY.. HAPPENED YESTERDAY.

Component Failure Cascade Risk

Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures

CriticalTIMING CHAIN issue detected

Valve and piston damage — timing chain/belt failure causes immediate catastrophic engine damage at any speed

HighTRANSMISSION issue detected

Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport — recall years marked in red
04805010020222020202120222023202420252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 26 total NHTSA complaints filed over 7 years, with the worst year being 2024 (8 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 95/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 89/100 in 2021.

The recall (red dashed line) followed the first complaints by 2 years — a typical response window; neither unusually fast nor a pattern of denial.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2021, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$30,084
~$501/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$4,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$1,500
Depreciation
$7,084

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $30,084 (~$501/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

1 open recall (unverified repair status)−$500
1 recall over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$400
Total recommended deduction−$900

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2020 MITSUBISHI Outlander Sport — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

HIGH
Inspect for timing chain issue detected — ask for repair records
Valve and piston damage — timing chain/belt failure causes immediate catastrophic engine damage at any speed
HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Verify recall POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with conti
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for JA4AR3AU3LU029271. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,650–$2,090/yr
~$138–$174/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
6-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINJA4AR3AU3LU029271
Model Year2020
MakeMITSUBISHI
ModelOutlander Sport
SeriesWagon body style
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors5
Seat Rows5
Drive Type4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionContinuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)2
Horsepower148

Manufacturer

ManufacturerMITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC)
Assembly CityMIZUSHIMA
Assembly CountryJAPAN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)JA4
Check Digit (Char 9)3
Model Year Code (Char 10)L
Plant Code (Char 11)U
Sequence (Chars 12–17)029271

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count1
NHTSA Complaint Count26

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

J
1
A
2
4
3
A
4
R
5
3
6
A
7
U
8
3
9
L
10
U
11
0
12
2
13
9
14
2
15
7
16
1
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
J
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
A
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
4
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
AR3AU
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
3
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
L
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
U
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
029271
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Japan
From VIN position 1 (J)
Model Year Character
"L" → 2020
Could also be 1990
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 8/2/2026, 1:56:28 AM.