Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has several recalls mainly related to suspension, structure, and visibility. Recurring issues such as wiper failures and parking brake problems highlight areas needing focused inspection. Verify recall completion for peace of mind.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 42 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V144000 Lower Control Arm May Detach Due to Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V279000 Lower Control Arm May Detach Due to Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V103000 Wiper Link Can Corrode Due to Moisture Exposure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V070000 Parking Brake Actuators may Corrode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V792000 Water Intrusion may cause Wiper Motor Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V744000 Seat Belt Lap Fastener Not Torqued Properly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V031000 Seat Mounted Side Air bag Wiring NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V300000 Strut Stabilizer Link Bracket May Disconnect NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V116000 Stop Lamp Switch/FMVSS 108, 114 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V112000 Fuel Gauge may Read Incorrectly NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 11 complaints
- Electrical System 11 complaints
- Structure 5 complaints
- Engine 4 complaints
- Service Brakes 4 complaints
- Suspension 4 complaints
Of the 42 complaints on file, 3 report a crash; across all 42 complaints, owners report 4 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Front control arm issues
How to check: Inspect front suspension for control arm wear or damage.
Frame corrosion
How to check: Check undercarriage for rust, especially in salt-prone areas.
Wiper motor failure
How to check: Test wipers for consistent operation during rain simulation.
Parking brake corrosion
How to check: Test parking brake engagement on an incline.
Passenger seatbelt fastening
How to check: Examine passenger seatbelt for secure fastening.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from the engine.
Red flag: Persistent knocking sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure smooth idle without vibrations.
Red flag: Rough or shaky idle.
- 03
Low-speed turns
What to check: Check for noises from suspension.
Red flag: Clunking or rattling sounds.
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Squeaking or grinding brakes.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth gear shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifts.
- 06
Parking brake operation
What to check: Ensure parking brake holds on a slope.
Red flag: Brake doesn't hold vehicle.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Has the timing belt been replaced?
- Any history of accidents or repairs?
- How often was the oil changed?
- Are there any outstanding issues?
- When were the brakes last serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle title
- Service records
- Recall repair receipts
- Accident history report
- Current registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.