BatteryHigh
PHEV drive battery capacity down, shorter electric range than claimed
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Charge fully and check the EV range readout against the original figure, then read cell balance on a diagnostic
MI
2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander · common problems & known faults
A practical seven-seat SUV and the UK's best-selling plug-in hybrid for years, but the PHEV drive battery, brake system and 12V electrics are where the money hides.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2012–2021 Mitsubishi Outlander are PHEV drive battery capacity down, shorter electric range than claimed, Diesel DPF blocking on short urban runs and 12V battery flattening when the car sits, refusing to wake the hybrid system. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Mitsubishi Outlander.
6.1/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalMedium
12V battery flattening when the car sits, refusing to wake the hybrid system
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Leave the car locked for an hour then check it starts and the charge timer works
BrakesMedium
Rear discs corroding early because regen does most of the braking
- Typically appears
- 40,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Inspect rear discs for lipping and heavy surface rust, and feel for pulsing under braking
EngineHigh
Diesel DPF blocking on short urban runs
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for repeated regeneration attempts in the service history and warning lights on a cold start
SuspensionMedium
Front lower arm bushes knocking over broken surfaces
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for clonks over speed bumps and check for uneven front tyre wear
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Outlander PHEV battery expensive to replace?
A full pack replacement is one of the biggest costs on the car, so a battery health report matters more than mileage.
Why do the rear brakes rust?
Regenerative braking means the rear pads rarely bite hard, so discs corrode rather than wear.
Is the diesel a safer buy?
Only for high-mileage motorway use; on short trips the DPF causes more trouble than the PHEV.
What service history should I look for?
Annual servicing plus evidence the hybrid system and brake fluid have been checked.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.