Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking practical and versatile transportation, capable of light off-road use.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Nissan X-Trail (depending on market).
Powertrain Options:
Available with 4-cylinder and V6 engines, FWD and AWD drivetrain options.
Practicality:
Spacious interior for its class, versatile cargo space, higher driving position.
Design:
Distinctive styling for its era, aiming for a balance between SUV ruggedness and car-like comfort.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor operations.
Transmission Manual:
Removal, installation, internal components, fluid specifications, clutch operation.
Transmission Automatic:
Removal, installation, torque converter, internal components, fluid specifications, electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics, hydraulic components, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, fuse box diagrams, relay functions.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, interior components.
Body Electrical:
Wiper system, horn, mirrors, door locks, power windows, interior lighting, sound system wiring.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame construction, body mounting, exhaust system routing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification and solutions for engine, transmission, electrical, and other systems.
Repair Instructions:
Step-by-step procedures for component removal, installation, and repair, with detailed diagrams.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including part specifications and tolerances.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all major systems.
Depth:
Professional-level diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures, suitable for experienced DIYers and professional technicians.
Engine Code Common:
4G6x series (e.g., 4G64, 4G69) - 2.4L Inline-4; 6G7x series (e.g., 6G72) - 3.0L V6
Displacement 2.4L:
2378 cc (145 cu. in.)
Displacement 3.0L:
2972 cc (181 cu. in.)
Horsepower:
Approx. 140-145 hp @ 5500-5700 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 145-150 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm
Horsepower:
Approx. 165-170 hp @ 5500-5750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 175-180 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing System 2.4L:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with timing belt
Timing System 3.0L:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with timing belt
Length:
Approx. 178.5 inches (4535 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1800 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.0 inches (1650 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.3 inches (2625 mm)
Curb Weight Approx FWD:
3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg)
Curb Weight Approx AWD:
3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 14.8 - 20.8 cubic feet (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 63.4 cubic feet
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2003 model, depending on specific configuration and testing)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2003 model, depending on specific configuration and testing)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (2003-2006 models)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Available on AWD models, optional on FWD.
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 to 7,500 miles (6,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G6x engines. Generally recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on automatic or manual and driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or higher, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (Mitsubishi Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant recommended or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF-SP II M or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Timing Belt Wear:
Critical maintenance item; premature wear or failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Regular replacement is vital.
Cv Joint Boots:
Tears in front CV joint boots can lead to premature wear and failure of the CV joints, especially in AWD models.
Radiator Leaks:
Some owners have reported premature radiator failure or leaks, particularly in higher mileage vehicles.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of power steering pump noise or leaks.
Window Regulators:
Potential for power window regulator failures over time.
Parent Company:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Design Philosophy:
Known for robust engineering, reliable powertrains, and often competitive pricing.
Introduction:
The first generation Outlander was introduced for the 2003 model year, replacing the Mitsubishi Montero Sport in some markets as a more car-based SUV.
Platform:
Built on Mitsubishi's GS platform, shared with the Lancer sedan.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (and potentially other Mitsubishi assembly plants).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Achieved 'Good' rating in the IIHS front offset crash test, indicating good structural integrity.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and specific engine/transmission combination; consultation of historical data is recommended.
Fuel Economy Estimates 2.4L FWD Auto:
Approx. 20-22 MPG city / 25-27 MPG highway.
Fuel Economy Estimates 3.0L AWD Auto:
Approx. 17-19 MPG city / 21-23 MPG highway.