The 2019 Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid with a 2.0L I4 and dual electric motors. While innovative, this generation suffers from catastrophic engine failures and hybrid system quirks that make it a higher-risk used buy than conventional crossovers.
Catastrophic Engine Failure (Connecting Rod Bearing Failure)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 60,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from engine bay, especially on cold starts, Metal shavings in oil during changes, Sudden loss of power or complete engine seizure, Check engine light with misfire codes or oil pressure warnings
Fix: Complete engine rebuild or replacement required. Connecting rod bearings fail prematurely, often taking out pistons, crankshaft, and cylinder walls. Short block replacement is minimum 18-24 labor hours, full rebuild 25-35 hours. Some owners report Mitsubishi goodwill assistance case-by-case.
Estimated cost: $8,000-15,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Failure
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 50,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from front of vehicle, Overheating warnings on dashboard during highway driving, Whining or grinding noise from CVT-like transmission, Reduced EV range due to thermal management issues
Fix: Oil cooler leaks internally or externally, contaminating coolant or leaking ATF. Requires cooler replacement and full fluid flush. 4-6 labor hours. Often triggers other transmission issues if not caught early.
Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000
Hybrid Battery Thermal Management Failure
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi
Symptoms: Significantly reduced EV range (under 10 miles on full charge), Battery warning lights and limp mode activation, Loud cooling fan operation even in normal conditions, Vehicle defaults to gas-only operation
Fix: Battery pack cooling system fails (fans, temperature sensors, or coolant lines). Diagnostics require PHEV-specific scan tools. Battery pack replacement is worst case at 12-16 hours, individual cell or cooling component replacement 6-10 hours. Out-of-warranty battery packs are dealer-only parts.
Estimated cost: $3,500-8,500
Engine Mount and Transmission Mount Failures
Common · low severityTypical onset: 40,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Excessive vibration during transitions between EV and gas modes, Clunking noise when accelerating or braking, Visible sagging of engine when opening hood, Harsh engagement when shifting into drive or reverse
Fix: Hydraulic mounts collapse prematurely due to hybrid powertrain stop-start cycles. Replace all three engine mounts simultaneously to prevent recurring issues. 3-5 labor hours depending on which mounts are done.
Estimated cost: $800-1,400
Fuel System Contamination and Fuel Filter Clogging
Occasional · medium severitySymptoms: Rough running or hesitation when gas engine kicks in, Check engine light with fuel trim codes, Hard starting after sitting unused for weeks, Reduced fuel economy in hybrid mode
Fix: PHEVs run gas engines infrequently, leading to stale fuel and varnish buildup. Fuel filter clogs more often than conventional vehicles. Filter replacement is 1.5-2 hours; may require fuel system cleaning and injector service if neglected. Recommend fuel stabilizer if vehicle sits.
Estimated cost: $300-800
Liftgate Strut Failure (Recall-Related)
Common · low severitySymptoms: Rear hatch falls unexpectedly or won't stay open, Struts hissing or leaking oil, Difficulty opening or closing power liftgate
Fix: Two recalls issued for liftgate struts. Check if recall work was completed; if not, dealer will replace free. If post-recall failure, aftermarket struts are 1 hour labor.
Estimated cost: $0-350
Avoid unless you find one with documented engine replacement under warranty and verified recall completion—the engine failure risk alone makes this a gamble at any price.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.