Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a known issue with its transmission control unit software, which can cause engine stalling due to gear ratio errors. Electrical and engine issues have also been reported, but not extensively.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 19 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 #22V563000 Engine Stall From Control Unit Software Error NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 6 complaints
- Engine 5 complaints
- Unknown or Other 4 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 3 complaints
- Power Train 3 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 3 complaints
Known issues to inspect
Transmission software error
How to check: Ask if recall repair was completed; check service records.
Electrical system failures
How to check: Check all electric features, including lights and infotainment system.
Engine complaints logged
How to check: Listen for unusual noises; verify no warning lights are present.
Forward collision avoidance issues
How to check: Verify if forward collision system is responsive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Engine should start smoothly without noises.
Red flag: Engine struggles to start.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Idle should be smooth, without fluctuations.
Red flag: Rough or fluctuating idle.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for transmission smoothness during gear changes.
Red flag: Jerking or hesitation during shifts.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable acceleration without stalling.
Red flag: Engine stalls or hesitates.
- 05
Parking
What to check: Ensure all parking sensors activate and function.
Red flag: Sensors fail to respond.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission recall been addressed?
- Any issues with the electrical system?
- Have engine parts been replaced or repaired?
- Is the forward collision system working?
- Have you experienced any stalling issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Vehicle title
- Warranty documentation
- Maintenance receipts
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 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.