Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Lawsuit Overview

Mitsubishi Motors North America has issued a recall for certain Outlander SUVs equipped with potentially defective seat belts.

These incorrectly assembled seat belts could fail to properly restrain occupants during a crash, significantly increasing the risk of severe injuries or death.

The recall specifically affects the right-side second-row seat belt, where a misassembled guide piece disrupts the seat belt’s ability to function correctly.

Latest Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Lawsuit Updates

• January 2, 2025 – Mitsubishi has agreed to an $8.5 million settlement over defective airbags, impacting Outlander owners and raising broader concerns about vehicle safety.
• December 31, 2024 – Mitsubishi vehicle owners, including some Outlander drivers, may be eligible for cash payments and extended warranties as part of a recent legal settlement addressing vehicle defects.
• January 24, 2024 – A lawsuit has been filed against Mitsubishi over alleged battery defects in Outlander PHEV models, citing safety concerns and vehicle reliability issues.

NHTSA Reports and Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has documented the following details regarding the Mitsubishi Outlander seat belt recall:

• Approximately 3,238 specific 2019-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander and 2019 Outlander PHEV models are affected by this recall, with Mitsubishi estimating only 1% of these models have the defect
• The seat belt defect specifically impacts the right-side second-row seat belt anchorage system
• NHTSA safety ratings otherwise show the Outlander received high marks across crashworthiness categories

Mitsubishi Outlander Injuries & Side Effects

The defective seat belts in recalled Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles can lead to several serious injuries during accidents when they fail to properly restrain occupants.

• Severe Impact Injuries: Increased risk of head trauma, chest injuries, and internal organ damage due to collision with vehicle interior
• Ejection Risk: Potential for partial or complete ejection from the vehicle during a crash
• Enhanced Injury Severity: Minor accidents that would typically result in minor injuries can cause severe harm due to restraint failure
• Child Safety Compromise: Children and smaller passengers face significantly higher risks if seat belts fail to function properly

Do You Qualify for a Mitsubishi Outlander Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Mitsubishi Outlander lawsuit if:

• You own or lease a 2019-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander or a 2019 Outlander PHEV
• Your vehicle has the defective right-side second-row seat belt
• You or a passenger experienced injuries in an accident where the seat belt failed to properly restrain
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide documentation of both the defective component and the resulting injuries

Evidence Required for a Mitsubishi Outlander Lawsuit

• Medical records documenting injuries sustained in the accident
• Vehicle maintenance and repair records
• Proof that your vehicle was part of the recall (verification through VIN)
• Documentation of proper seat belt usage at the time of the accident
• Accident reports and witness statements if available

Damages You Can Recover

• Medical expenses for treatment of injuries
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering related to injuries
• Potential punitive damages against the manufacturer
• Compensation for diminished vehicle value

Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Information

The recall affects:

• 2019-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander models
• 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles)
• Specifically targets vehicles with incorrectly assembled right-side second-row seat belt components
• NHTSA campaign initiated on May 27, 2020, with owner notifications beginning July 14, 2020

Statute of Limitations for Mitsubishi Outlander Lawsuits

The time limit to file a Mitsubishi Outlander lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from:

• The date of injury
• The date the defect was discovered
• The date of the recall announcement

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within your state’s specific deadline.

Related Articles:

• Toyota Highlander Recall Tort
• Toyota Avalon Lawsuit
• Toyota Corolla Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. How do I know if my Mitsubishi Outlander is affected by the recall?

You can check if your vehicle is affected by visiting the NHTSA recall database at nhtsa.gov/recalls and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local Mitsubishi dealership directly.

2. What should I do if I own an affected Mitsubishi Outlander?

If your vehicle is part of the recall, schedule an inspection with a certified Mitsubishi service center immediately. The dealer will inspect and replace defective components at no cost to you.

3. How can I identify if my seatbelt is defective?

Look for signs such as loose or misaligned components, difficulty latching or unlatching, and unusual noises when adjusting the seat belt. However, some defects may not be visible, so professional inspection is recommended.

4. Can I still drive my Mitsubishi Outlander if it’s part of the recall?

While the vehicle remains drivable, it’s recommended to avoid using the affected seat position until repairs are completed to ensure passenger safety.

5. How much compensation can I receive from a Mitsubishi Outlander lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, and other factors. Settlements may range from thousands to potentially millions of dollars in cases involving serious injuries.

6. How long does a Mitsubishi Outlander lawsuit typically take?

Most product liability cases take between 1-3 years to resolve, though individual timelines vary based on case complexity and whether the case settles or goes to trial.

7. Will filing a lawsuit affect my relationship with the dealership?

Filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer should not affect warranty coverage or service from your dealership. Dealers are required to perform recall repairs regardless of legal action.

8. Do I need a lawyer to file a Mitsubishi Outlander lawsuit?

While not legally required, having specialized legal representation significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation and navigating the complex legal process successfully.

Get A Free Mitsubishi Outlander Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to the Mitsubishi Outlander seat belt defect. Most states impose strict deadlines, giving you only 1-3 years from the date of injury to file your claim.

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our services
• Payment only if we win your case
• Nationwide representative with experience in all 50 states

Don’t wait until it’s too late to pursue the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced attorneys is ready to fight for your rights against large automobile manufacturers.