Market Position:
The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander positioned as a versatile compact SUV/Crossover, competing in a segment with strong offerings from Toyota (RAV4), Honda (CR-V), Ford (Escape), and Nissan (Rogue). It emphasized practicality, available all-wheel drive, and a comfortable ride.
Target Demographic:
Families and individuals seeking a practical, versatile, and often budget-friendly compact SUV with optional all-wheel drive capability.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against segment leaders by offering a balance of utility, fuel efficiency, and often a more value-oriented price point. The availability of a third-row seat (in some configurations) was a differentiator against some rivals.
Key Features:
Optional 7-passenger seating, S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) drivetrain, good fuel economy for its class, comfortable interior, intuitive controls.
S-Awc System Details:
The Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system offers advanced torque vectoring and control modes (e.g., Snow, Gravel, Normal) for enhanced stability and traction in various conditions.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic CVT & potentially Manual), Drivetrain (AWD/FWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, EBD), Climate Control (HVAC), Body Electrical, Lighting System, Information & Entertainment System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Procedures, Body & Chassis, Exterior & Interior Trim
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems including engine control, body control modules (BCM), lighting, power accessories, audio, climate control, and diagnostic connector (OBD-II).
Body And Chassis Repairs:
Covers body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim panel removal, body structural repair guidelines, and anti-corrosion measures.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Diagnostic Troubleshooting, Component Removal & Installation, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Electrical Schematics, Technical Specifications, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities & Types, Exploded Views, Assembly & Disassembly Instructions
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting flowcharts for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and repair procedures, use of diagnostic scan tools, live data interpretation.
Suspension And Steering Repairs:
Detailed instructions for suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints), steering rack and pinion service, alignment specifications, and power steering system repairs.
Engine Performance Tuning:
While not a performance tuning manual, it provides specifications for engine parameters and component adjustments that are critical for maintaining OEM performance levels.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs)
Engine Rebuild Depth:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, including cylinder head removal and reassembly, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and bearing specifications, timing belt/chain (if applicable) procedures, valve clearance adjustments.
Transmission Rebuild Depth:
Detailed procedures for CVT internal component inspection, clutch pack replacement, valve body diagnosis and repair, torque converter service, and complete transmission disassembly/reassembly.
Brake System Diagnostics:
In-depth coverage of ABS, EBD, and ASC system components, including sensor testing, hydraulic unit diagnosis, and bleeding procedures.
Engine Code And Displacement:
4B12 (2.4L MIVEC DOHC 16-valve Inline-4)
Engine Technology:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system for optimized performance and fuel efficiency.
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 10.5:1
Horsepower And Torque:
Approx. 168 hp @ 6000 rpm / 167 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (Varies slightly by market/specifications)
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Available Engine Variants:
Likely included a 2.4L 4-cylinder (4B12) as standard. Some markets may have offered a 3.0L V6 (6B31) in earlier or higher trims, though the 2.4L was prevalent for the 2013 model year in North America. The manual explicitly covers the primary engine(s) offered for the 2013 model year.
Standard Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - INVECS-III
Optional Transmission:
None widely reported for this specific model year in core markets, CVT was dominant.
Transmission Features:
CVT with Sportronic® (simulated manual shifting via paddle shifters or shifter), Lock-up Torque Converter.
Drivetrain Integration:
Seamless integration with S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, providing variable torque distribution for enhanced traction and handling.
Cvtf Requirements:
Strict adherence to the specified CVT fluid (CVTF-J1) is crucial for the longevity and proper operation of the INVECS-III transmission.
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
Likely 4 out of 5 stars (typical for this class and year, check specific VIN for recall/update status)
IIHS Ratings:
Likely received 'Good' ratings in front and side crash tests from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for many categories. Refer to specific year/model test results.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control Logic (TCL), Active Stability Control (ASC), Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
TPMS is standard or optional depending on trim level, providing real-time tire pressure data.
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal Airbags, Side-impact Airbags, Curtain Airbags, Driver's Knee Airbag, Active Front Head Restraints, Three-point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters
Infotainment System:
Rockford-Fosgate® premium audio system (optional), Bluetooth® hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port, CD/MP3 player, touchscreen infotainment system (availability varies by trim).
Infotainment Features Detailed:
Navigation system (optional with larger touchscreen), voice recognition for audio and phone functions, satellite radio capability.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rearview camera (optional), cruise control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were not common on this specific model year, particularly outside of top trims or specific markets.
Keyless Entry And Start:
Optional: Mitsubishi's 'FAST-Key' system for keyless entry and push-button start.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth, USB input. Remote keyless entry, potentially a basic telematics system in higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Other Maintenance Intervals:
Tire Rotation (every 7,500 miles), Engine Air Filter (inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed), Cabin Air Filter (inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed), Brake Fluid Flush (every 30,000 miles or 3 years), Transmission Fluid (CVT) - Inspect periodically, replace based on driving conditions, typically around 60,000-90,000 miles. Spark Plugs (Iridium) - 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant. Capacity: Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVTF-J1 or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) for a drain and fill.
Coolant Type:
Long-life coolant, typically a red or pink ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant). Capacity: Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 liters).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Capacity: Approx. 0.5 - 0.7 US quarts (0.5 - 0.7 liters) for a complete system flush.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Typically uses ATF Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid or a specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid. Capacity: Approx. 1.0 - 1.2 US quarts (0.9 - 1.1 liters).
Common Issues And Troubleshooting:
CVT wear or shudder (early models), minor electrical gremlins (e.g., power windows, infotainment glitches), occasional suspension component wear (bushings), potential for catalytic converter issues with high mileage.
Common Maintenance Items:
Regular replacement of engine air filter, cabin air filter, and spark plugs is critical for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Specific Component Wear:
Rear wheel bearing noise can develop over time. Front stabilizer bar links may require replacement due to wear.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its engineering prowess and participation in motorsports (e.g., Dakar Rally, World Rally Championship).
Model Evolution:
The 2013 model represents the third generation of the Outlander, which debuted in 2007 (as the Outlander 'ZJ/CWB' platform). This generation received a significant facelift and updates for the 2010 model year, with the 2013 model being part of this refreshed generation before a complete redesign in 2014.
Platform Details:
Based on the Mitsubishi GS platform, which also underpinned other vehicles like the Lancer and Outlander Sport (ASX), contributing to shared components and engineering.
Generation Highlights:
The third generation (GF/GG/GH) marked a shift towards a more car-like crossover design, moving away from the more truck-based styling of the first generation.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Mizushima Plant) and also in Russia (PSMA Rus) for the Russian market, and potentially other global CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly locations.