What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Significant structural recalls related to front cross member corrosion and potential front lower control arm detachment demand close inspection.

How many recalls does the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport have?

The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport currently has 10 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant structural recalls related to front cross member corrosion and potential front lower control arm detachment demand close inspection. The 2.0-liter engine and AV-S6 automatic transmission provide adequate, though not spirited, performance. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, rated at 25 mpg combined. Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are zero, suggesting proactive manufacturer action or reporting gaps. All-wheel drive enhances capability in adverse weather conditions. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant structural recalls related to front cross member corrosion and potential front lower control arm detachment demand close inspection.
The 2.0-liter engine and AV-S6 automatic transmission provide adequate, though not spirited, performance.
Fuel economy is competitive for its class, rated at 25 mpg combined.
Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are zero, suggesting proactive manufacturer action or reporting gaps.

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Overview

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers a compact SUV experience with available all-wheel drive and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It achieves a respectable 25 mpg combined. However, its average reliability verdict is heavily influenced by numerous recalls, particularly those concerning structural components like front cross members and lower control arms. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the sheer volume and nature of these recalls warrant careful consideration and thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Corrosion of the front cross member can lead to the detachment of front lower control arms, posing a critical safety risk. This issue is particularly prevalent in regions using road salt.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns10

Service Bulletins48

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing all-wheel drive capability in a compact package.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a strong, proven long-term reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (AV-S6)
Drivetrain: 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. Front Cross Member Corrosion and Control Arm Detachment

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

10 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Front Cross Member / Lower Control Arm (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $3,000+).

What engine is in the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.