Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Issued Over Windshield Wiper Problems

More than 100,000 Mitsubishi Outlander SUVs have been recalled, after the manufacturer recognized the potential for water to enter the electrical components of the windshield wiper motor, which may result in a loss of power that increases the risk of an accident. 

The Mitsubishi Outlander SUV recall (PDF) was announced by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on July 27, indicating that if water causes the windshield motor to fail, it may render the wipers useless during inclement weather.

According to the NHTSA, Mitsubishi discovered that the windshield wiper design may allow rain water or road debris to enter the front wiper motor through a gap between the front deck garnish and the front windshield. Over time, water intrusion could accumulate in the area of the wiper motor breathing hole, causing internal corrosion or electrical conduction failures that would cause the windshield wiper motor to fail.

Failure of the windshield wiper motor could put the vehicle driver and occupants at an increased risk of a crash due to the loss of visibility. To date, no injuries have been reported in relation with the recall.

Included in the recall are an estimated 100,082 model year 2007 through 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles that were manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA), Inc. from September 8, 2006 through March 29, 2013. Vehicles included in the recall have vehicle identification numbers ranging from JA4MT41X47U001029 to JA4JS4AX5DU026054.

Mitsubishi has begun notifying customers and dealers about the Mitsubish Outlander windshield wiper problems. Customers will be given instructions on how to contact their local dealer to schedule a free repair appointment where dealers will inspect and replace the windshield wiper motor.

Customers with additional questions or concerns regarding the recall may contact Mitsubishi Motors North America’s customer service at 1-888-648-7820 and reference the recall number SR-17-003.