In recent months, several reports have pointed to a flaw that could put drivers' safety at risk. At first, it seemed like an isolated issue, but now it's confirmed that it affects tens of thousands of vehicles in the United States. The Japanese brand has been forced to take a step that is far from minor.
We're talking about a move that directly affects one of its flagship models. Mitsubishi has launched a massive vehicle recall campaign that puts thousands of families on alert. What seemed like a technical detail has become a cause for concern for thousands of owners.
A recall that affects thousands of drivers
Mitsubishi has announced that more than 91,000 units of its flagship SUV must undergo inspection. The problem lies in the gas struts of the rear hatch, which can fail due to corrosion. The risk is clear: the door can suddenly drop like a dangerous guillotine.
The models involved are two of the brand's best sellers. Outlander manufactured between 2014 and 2020 accounts for 85,600 units. Meanwhile, Outlander PHEV from 2018 to 2022 adds 6,077 units to the total.
The sum reaches 91,700 vehicles, all included in this safety notice. Corrosion inside the struts causes a loss of pressure and stops supporting the door. The drop can be unexpected and have serious consequences.
The role of the "Salt Belt"
The origin of the flaw is linked to the design of these parts and the conditions in which they're used. In many states in the so-called Salt Belt, winter forces salt to be spread on the roads. That salt ends up seeping into the components and accelerates corrosion.
The recall campaign is limited to 27 states where exposure to salt is more intense. Among them are Alaska, New York, Michigan, Ohio, and others in the Midwest and Northeast. They all have in common harsh winters and roads treated with salt for months.
NHTSA registered the notice with number 25V507 after the first cases became known in 2023. Now, the recall is being launched with an official date: notifications will begin on October 6, 2025.
What owners should do
Owners of an affected Outlander or Outlander PHEV will receive a letter starting from that date. They only need to go to an official Mitsubishi dealership. There, the struts will be replaced with new ones, featuring reinforced anti-corrosion protection.
The process is free for all customers. In addition, those who have already paid for the repair of this flaw can request reimbursement from the brand. Mitsubishi is committed to covering the costs and ensuring that the new struts are more resistant.
To check if a vehicle is included in the recall, it's enough to enter the VIN number on Mitsubishi's official website. The 17-digit code appears in the car's documentation or at the base of the windshield. In a few seconds, it's confirmed whether the model needs to be inspected.
Impact for Mitsubishi
This isn't the first major recall in the U.S. market this year. Other brands have also faced similar problems. However, for it to happen to Outlander, the brand's best-selling SUV, is a direct blow to its reputation.
Manufacturers know that every recall erodes consumer trust. In a competitive market, losing credibility can be more serious than the repair itself. The simple fact that a hatch can fall unexpectedly generates concern among thousands of users.
Mitsubishi has taken measures, but the real challenge is to regain trust. The risk of injury is real and shouldn't be taken lightly. Now, it's up to the owners to act and take their vehicles to the shop.