Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Outlander (2016-2018) is a compact crossover SUV designed to compete in a highly competitive segment, offering practicality, versatility, and value. It targets families and individuals seeking a reliable vehicle for daily commuting and light adventuring.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors during this period include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, and Mazda CX-5. The Outlander differentiated itself with available all-wheel-drive (S-AWC), a comfortable ride, and often a more competitive price point.
Key Features Vehicle:
Available S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) for enhanced traction and handling, comfortable and spacious interior, optional third-row seating (in some configurations), good fuel efficiency with the 2.4L engine, and a reputation for reliability.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with the essential factory-level information required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Outlander (2016-2018) accurately and efficiently, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems, engine control systems (ECM/ECU), ignition system, starting and charging systems.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic Transmission (CVT - Jatco JF016E/JF017E), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case, differential, drivetrain components, driveline shafts, wheel hub bearings.
Chassis Systems:
Brake system (ABS, EBD, BA, electronic parking brake), steering system (hydraulic power steering, electric power steering - EPS), suspension system (front and rear), wheel and tire specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Body electrical systems, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lighting), power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, HVAC blower motor, wipers and washers, horns, fuse and relay identification and functions, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body And Interior:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, seating systems, airbags, seat belts, body panel replacement, glass replacement, soundproofing.
HVAC And Comfort:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, climate control modules, cabin air filter replacement, seat heaters, steering wheel heater (if equipped).
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, impact sensors, ABS, traction control (TCL), electronic stability control (ESC/ASC), active stability control (ASC).
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation (engine, transmission, suspension parts, brakes, steering components, body panels, interior trim), engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, electrical system diagnostics, mechanical system diagnostics.
Special Procedures:
Software updates and programming for control modules (ECM, TCM, BCM), alignment procedures, refrigerant handling, torque specifications for critical fasteners, pressure testing (fuel, cooling).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, with detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Engine Code And Type 1:
4J12 (2.4L MIVEC DOHC 16-valve inline-4)
Engine Displacement 1:
2359 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower 1:
166 hp @ 6,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
162 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code And Type 2:
6B31 (3.0L MIVEC SOHC 24-valve V6 - less common in this generation, primarily for higher trims)
Engine Displacement 2:
2998 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower 2:
224 hp @ 6,250 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
215 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Management System:
Bosch or Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with CAN bus communication
Standard Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Jatco JF016E (FWD) or JF017E (AWC)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed automatic transmission (less common, may be specific to certain markets or earlier generations within this range)
Cvts Features:
Selectable Sport Mode, Manual Mode with 6 simulated gears, Adaptive Shift Control.
Cvt Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi Genuine CVT Fluid J4 (or equivalent specification)
Cvt Fluid Capacity Approx:
Approximately 7.0 - 7.5 liters (for complete refill, pan drop is less)
Length:
Approximately 181.5 - 183.3 inches (4610 - 4655 mm)
Width:
Approximately 70.7 - 71.5 inches (1795 - 1815 mm)
Height:
Approximately 65.0 - 65.7 inches (1650 - 1670 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 105.1 inches (2670 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 34.2 cubic feet (969 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 10.3 cubic feet (292 liters) with optional 3rd row
Curb Weight Approx:
3,417 - 3,770 lbs (1,550 - 1,710 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Approx:
1,500 lbs (680 kg) with trailer tow package, 2,000 lbs (907 kg) for V6 models (check specific market regulations and options)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically received 4 or 5 star overall ratings from NHTSA in its class.
IIHS Safety Picks:
Earned 'Top Safety Pick' or 'Top Safety Pick+' designations from IIHS in various years within this range for good performance in crash tests.
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).
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems:
Available Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags, front-seat mounted side impact airbags, curtain side airbags (front and rear), driver's knee airbag, active front head restraints, pretensioning seatbelts.
Infotainment System:
Touchscreen infotainment system featuring AM/FM/CD/MP3, USB input, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and optional navigation system.
Display Sizes:
Typically 6.1-inch or 7-inch touchscreen display depending on trim level and options.
Driver Assistance Suite:
Availability of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Blind Spot Warning (BSW) enhances safety and convenience.
Connectivity Features:
USB ports for device charging and media playback, 12V power outlets, and available SiriusXM satellite radio.
Convenience Features:
Keyless entry and ignition (FAST-Key system), power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, power liftgate (on higher trims).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replacement typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Filter Replacement Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replacement typically recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) depending on environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs recommended for replacement around 60,000 - 75,000 miles (96,000 - 120,000 km).
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20, API SN/SN PLUS or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 certified synthetic engine oil.
Engine Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent G12/G12+ compliant antifreeze.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check owner's manual for specific recommendation).
Common Issues Cvt:
Some owners have reported occasional CVT shuddering or hesitation, particularly in earlier models. Regular fluid changes with the correct fluid are crucial for CVT longevity.
Common Issues Electrical:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches or keyless entry issues, can occur but are generally resolved with software updates or component replacement.
Common Issues Body:
Some models may experience minor interior rattles or squeaks over time, particularly on rough roads, which can often be addressed with simple insulation techniques.
Engine Oil Capacity Approx:
4.8 liters (5.1 US quarts) with filter change for 2.4L engine.
Cooling System Capacity Approx:
7.5 - 7.8 liters (7.9 - 8.2 US quarts) for 2.4L engine.
Oil Filter Example Part Number:
Mitsubishi: 1230A186, Fram: CH10090, Wix: WL10071 (Verify for specific engine).
Engine Air Filter Example Part Number:
Mitsubishi: 1500A380, Fram: CA10912 (Verify for specific engine).
Brand Heritage Mitsubishi:
Mitsubishi Motors has a history of producing robust and capable vehicles, including renowned SUVs like the Pajero/Montero and the original Outlander, known for their innovation and value proposition.
Outlander Generations:
The 2016-2018 models represent the third generation of the Outlander, which debuted for the 2014 model year. This generation received a significant facelift and powertrain updates for 2016, including revised styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features.
Production Locations:
Primary manufacturing often occurred at Mitsubishi's Okazaki plant in Japan, with some production also occurring in other global facilities depending on market demand.
Platform Sharing Details:
This generation utilizes a platform co-developed with PSA Peugeot Citroën, a legacy of a past alliance, which it shares with models like the Citroën C4 Aircross and Peugeot 4008.