Mitsubishi Outlander 2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Mitsubishi Outlander 2 is available with 2 engine variants — from 98 to 170 hp.
VW-derived diesel from the Mazda/Mitsubishi cooperation (DW10BTED4 base from PSA) with 100–103 kW. Known for EGR problems and balance shaft wear. Timing belt every 120,000 km or 10 years. Oil change every 10,000 km is mandatory.
- !! Injector failure from 130,000 km
The common-rail injectors on the BSY/DW10BTED4 tend to wear and seize from 120,000–150,000 km. Faulty injection causes engine misfires and increased soot output. Replacement is costly.
Symptoms: Engine stumbling, misfires, cold-start difficulties, check engine light, rough running - !! Balance shaft wear from 120,000 km
The balance shafts on the 2.0 DI-D in the Outlander II/Grandis wear prematurely with neglected oil changes. Characteristic droning noise from the engine bay. Repair is very expensive.
Symptoms: Droning and vibration from the engine bay (especially in the mid-rpm range), check engine light - !! Timing belt failure from 120,000 km
The BSY/DW10BTED4 uses a timing belt drive with a 120,000 km or 10-year replacement interval. Exceeding it risks engine damage from valve collision. Replace the water pump at the same time.
Symptoms: Engine won't start, loud metallic noise on start attempt
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Proven 2.4-litre MIVEC naturally aspirated engine with timing chain and DOHC. Generally considered reliable, but vehicles from the 2007–2011 production period have a design-related weakness at the crankshaft radial seal. The timing chain holds with regular oil changes up to around 150,000 km; after that the risk of chain stretch and skipping rises noticeably.
- !! Timing chain stretches at high mileage from 150,000 km
The 4B12 timing chain tends to stretch above 150,000 km. A broken or jumped chain drive can cause severe engine damage. Regular oil changes are critical for chain longevity.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling or ticking from the engine bay especially on cold start, rough idle, engine management warning light illuminates - !! Crankshaft seal leaking from 80,000 km
Vehicles from 2007–2011 have a known weakness at the crankshaft radial seal, which can be damaged by foreign matter and leads to oil loss. The design was revised from late 2010 onwards.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle near the engine, dropping oil level without visible leak in the upper engine area, oil smell after driving - ! Elevated oil consumption with age from 160,000 km
At higher mileages the 4B12 can show elevated oil consumption from worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Normal consumption is below 0.25 litres per 1,000 km.
Symptoms: Dropping oil level between service intervals, slight blue smoke on cold start or under load, oil smell from exhaust
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Underbody rust and inadequate corrosion protection Body cavity protection is inadequate from the factory. Underbodies and cavities rust noticeably earlier than the competition without additional treatment. Door bottom edges and sills are particularly at risk. Symptoms: Paint blistering at door bottom edges and sills, visible rust on the underbody, rust staining below window hinges from 80,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Mitsubishi Outlander 2 (2006–2012) — 8 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Gearbox, Brakes, Electronics. Considered reliable: 4B12 (2.4L MIVEC).
Outlander (BSY, 2006–2009) — Be Careful: Injector failure, Balance shaft wear, Timing belt failure. Power: 140 PS.
What to watch out for with the Mitsubishi Outlander? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Mitsubishi Outlander 2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Mitsubishi Outlander 2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Mitsubishi Outlander 2 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Mitsubishi Outlander 2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander 2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Mitsubishi Outlander 2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee