Dec. 28, 2016 – Cypress, Calif. – Defective lift gates on several vehicles models have led Mitsubishi to conduct a recall of those that have been affected.
The Defect
The problem appears to affect model year 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured between Aug. 26, 2010 and June 1, 2012. Also being recalled are 2016 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured between Jan. 11, 2016 and July 8, 2016.
According to documents compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the support tubes that are meant to hold up the vehicles’ lift gates when they are open do not contain the correct amount of anti-corrosion treatment. Over time, this means that salt and water can corrode the tubes, which will in turn cause them to lose pressure more quickly. If not treated, affected lift gates could crash down on operators without warning, possibly causing injury.
Timeline of Events
January 2016 – A supplier informed Mitsubishi that corrosion in a similar outer lift gate tube had caused the inner spring to snap off. The supplier suggested that Mitsubishi investigate its own components as well.
December 2016 – After a full investigation, Mitsubishi had no knowledge of any documented cases of failure on any of its vehicles. The company decided to conduct the recall out of a sense of caution, to ensure no future problems will arise.
Resolution
Mitsubishi is currently working with dealers to determine the best date in which to inform customers of the recall. Owners will be encouraged to visit their nearest dealer to have their existing lift gate replaced, free of charge.
