Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Lemon Law

In 2022 Mitsubishi recalled 76,508 model-year 2019–2022 Outlander Sport SUVs over a fault in the software that controls the continuously variable transmission (CVT-ECU). If the control unit briefly loses power, the software can reset and command the CVT into its lowest possible ratio. If that happens above roughly 62 mph, the engine can over-rev, which can damage the engine and lead to a stall — a serious safety hazard in traffic. Dealers reprogram the CVT-ECU with corrected software free of charge.

That recall isn't the whole story. Across model years, Outlander Sport owners commonly report CVT shudder and vibration on acceleration, hesitation or lag when pulling away, jerking as ratios change, and general transmission roughness. Others report electrical problems such as recurring warning lights and control-unit faults, plus weak or failing air conditioning. When a reprogramming or repair doesn't cure the underlying behavior, the problem tends to return.

California's Lemon Law covers more than the recall itself. If your Outlander Sport keeps stalling, shuddering, or throwing the same fault after multiple repair attempts, or has been stuck at the dealer for an extended time waiting on a fix, it may qualify as a lemon regardless of whether your specific complaint was recalled. That can entitle you to a buyback, a replacement, or a cash settlement, with Mitsubishi paying your attorney fees.

A recall is not automatically a lemon — it's the manufacturer acknowledging a defect and offering a free repair. California's Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Act) comes into play when a substantial defect can't be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or when your Outlander Sport has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.

If your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport qualifies, you may be entitled to a buyback (a refund of what you've paid, minus a mileage offset), a replacement vehicle, or a cash-and-keep settlement — and Mitsubishi pays your attorney fees on a successful claim, so pursuing your case costs you nothing out of pocket.