Mitsubishi Motors is recalling 108,046 vehicles in the U.S. because a ruptured gas spring cylinder or an unexpected falling liftgate could increase the risk of injury, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Friday.
NHTSA said the recall involves some of the company’s Outlander and Outlander hybrid sport utility vehicles.
As a remedy, Mitsubishi will replace the left and right liftgate gas springs free of charge, the auto regulator said.
The recall applies to certain model year Outlander and Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The main number is about 108,000 in the U.S., but these types of mechanical failures often trigger similar service actions in other markets around the world including Canada and Japan.
The Technical Issue
The main problem is in the outer tube of the liftgate gas springs.
Based on NHTSA filings the anti-corrosion coating on the gas spring cylinders may not have been sufficiently applied during manufacturing.
Over a period of time the cylinder can corrode and burst if it is exposed to salt and moisture. If the cylinder breaks open, the high-pressure gas will escape with a bang and the flying pieces of metal can hit bystanders.
Or the liftgate support may suddenly fail causing the liftgate to drop unexpectedly while someone is loading or unloading the vehicle.
Affected Models & Years
While the exact manufacturing dates can vary, the recall primarily impacts:
1. Mitsubishi Outlander: Certain units from the 2016–2020 model years.
2. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: Certain units from the 2018–2020 model years.
The Remedy Process
Mitsubishi, together with federal regulators, developed a temporary and permanent solution strategy:
Notification: Vehicle owners will receive official letters by mail stating that they need to go to an authorized dealership.
Free Replacement: Dealers will replace both the left and right trunk lid gas springs with improved parts that have superior corrosion resistance.
Cost: As with all safety recalls mandated by the NHTSA, this repair is completely free for the consumer.
Reimbursement: If the vehicle owner has paid out of pocket to address this specific issue before the recall announcement, Mitsubishi generally offers a reimbursement program, provided the original receipts are presented.
