Mitsubishi recalling 2013 Outlander Sport for suspension issue

Mon, 22 Jul 2013

Just 305 units of the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are the subject of a recall over a potential suspension issue. Crossovers made from January 17-25 of this year might suffer from a bad weld on the front left strut's stabilizer link. If it fails, damage to the brake hose or tire could result, in turn making steering or braking control of the compact CUV more difficult.

When the recall begins, owners can take their Outlander Sports to Mitsubishi dealers for inspection and replacement of the strut assembly if necessary. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bulletin below has more information.

Report Receipt Date: JUL 08, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V300000
Component(s): SUSPENSION
Potential Number of Units Affected: 305
Vehicle Model Year(s) Make Model: 2013 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT
Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

SUMMARY:
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured January 17, 2013, through January 25, 2013. The stabilizer link on the front strut was improperly welded. As a result, the link may detach and cause damage to the tire and/or brake hose.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the stabilizer link bracket damages the tire and/or brake line, the driver may have more difficulty controlling the steering of the vehicle, or the vehicle may require a longer stopping distance to come to a complete and controlled stop. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the front left strut assembly free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact MMNA at 1-800-222-0037. MMNA's recall number is SR-13-008.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

By Jonathon Ramsey