The problem
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Lancer, 2008-2012 Outlander, 2010-2012 Lancer Sportback, and 2011-2012 Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with either a 4B11 or 4B12 engine. The drive belt automatic tensioner flange may crack, allowing the accessory drive belt to detach.
The risk
If the drive belt detaches, the battery will discharge and the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the belt tensioner with one that has an improved shape, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 27, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-18-001.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 18V-069 (18V069000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SR-18-001 |
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and associated pulleys |
| Report date | January 26, 2018 |
| Owners notified | March 27, 2018 |
| Vehicles affected | 141,053 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
- 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback
- 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback
- 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
- 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer engine problems 27
- 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer engine problems 21
- 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer engine problems 11
- 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer engine problems 6
- 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander engine problems 9
- 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander engine problems 7
- 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander engine problems 19
- 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander engine problems 24
- 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander engine problems 3
- 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport engine problems 10
- 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport engine problems 3
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 18V-069 repair free?
Yes. Mitsubishi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the belt tensioner with one that has an improved shape, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 27, 2018. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 141,053 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.