The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. When the stop lamp switch was assembled, grease was inadvertently applied to the contact point. This can cause the contact point to heat up causing internal operation elements to melt allowing the swtich to become stuck in on or off position.
The risk
This condition can cause the anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning light to come on.
The fix
Dealers will install a relay and replace the brake lamp switch.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-212 (98V212000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Tail lights › Switch |
| Report date | September 8, 1998 |
| Owners notified | November 30, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 17,079 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-212 repair free?
Yes. Mitsubishi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a relay and replace the brake lamp switch.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 17,079 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.