Used Mitsubishi Outlander 2025: Pre-purchase checklist

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a popular medium SUV in Australia, offering space, comfort and a choice of petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) power. The latest-generation Outlander arrived in Australia in 2022 and offers five-star ANCAP safety across the range. [1] So, what makes the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander a popular used vehicle, and what should you check before you buy one?

What are the benefits of buying a used Mitsubishi Outlander?

Save money: Buying a used Mitsubishi Outlander can help you avoid some of the depreciation that comes with buying a new SUV. You may also be able to buy a higher-spec model for less money than a new one. However, compare prices carefully and check the vehicle’s condition before making a decision.

Space and comfort: The Outlander has a spacious interior and is available with seven seats, depending on the model. This makes it useful for families, school runs, shopping and longer road trips [1].

Choice of power: The 2025 Outlander is available with a 2.5-litre petrol engine, while the Outlander PHEV combines a petrol engine with electric motors and a rechargeable battery [1]. This gives buyers a choice between a conventional petrol SUV and a plug-in hybrid.

Fuel efficiency: The Outlander PHEV can use electric power for shorter trips when the battery has sufficient charge. This can reduce the amount of petrol used for daily driving. The actual fuel savings depend on how often the vehicle is charged and how it is driven.

Safety: The current-generation Outlander has achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating, tested against the latest safety protocols [1]. Depending on the model, safety equipment can include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning and other driver-assistance systems.

Practicality: The Outlander offers useful luggage space and a comfortable driving position. Selected models also have all-wheel drive, making them suitable for family trips and different road conditions.

What should I look for when buying a Mitsubishi Outlander?

A vehicle history report will give you important information about the Mitsubishi Outlander you are interested in.

In general, look for a used 2025 Outlander with a good service history, reasonable kilometres and a condition that matches its age. Ask the seller how the vehicle has been used and whether it has had any major repairs.

An Outlander used mainly for family trips may have had an easier life than one regularly used for long-distance travel, towing or rough roads.

When purchasing a used Mitsubishi Outlander 2025, pay close attention to the following areas.

Engine

The petrol Outlander uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, while the PHEV has a petrol engine working with electric motors [1].

Start the vehicle and listen for unusual noises. Check that it starts easily and runs smoothly.

Look under the bonnet for signs of oil or coolant leaks. Also check for warning lights, unusual engine noises or excessive exhaust smoke.

Ask the seller when the vehicle was last serviced and request the service records.

PHEV battery and electric system

If you are buying an Outlander PHEV, the high-voltage battery is one of the most important parts to check.

Ask the seller about the vehicle’s charging history and battery condition. If possible, test the charging system and make sure the charging port operates correctly.

Check for:

• Battery warning lights
• Charging problems
• Unusual electrical warnings
• Damage around the charging port
• Damage underneath the vehicle
• Records of battery or electrical repairs

The Mitsubishi warranty terms state that the main power traction battery in an EV or PHEV is covered for eight years or 160,000km from the date the vehicle is first registered or put into service, whichever comes first [2].

Check the exact warranty status of the vehicle rather than assuming that every PHEV has the same remaining coverage.

Transmission

During your test drive, check that the vehicle moves smoothly and responds correctly to the accelerator.

Look for hesitation, unusual noises, shuddering or warning messages.

For a PHEV, pay attention to the transition between petrol and electric power. The vehicle should feel smooth and predictable during normal driving.

If anything feels unusual, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified Mitsubishi technician or hybrid specialist.

Brakes

Check that the brakes work smoothly and do not make unusual noises.

The PHEV uses regenerative braking as part of its hybrid system, but it also has conventional brakes that require inspection and maintenance.

Look for:

• Brake vibration
• Pulling to one side
• Unusual noises
• A soft brake pedal
• Excessive brake wear

If the Outlander has been used for towing or regular long-distance driving, pay particular attention to the brakes.

Tyres and suspension

Check all four tyres for uneven wear, damage and sufficient tread.

Uneven tyre wear may indicate a wheel alignment or suspension problem. During the test drive, listen for knocking or squeaking sounds.

Also check that the steering feels normal and that the vehicle does not pull to one side.

Inspect the shock absorbers and suspension components for signs of damage or wear.

All-wheel-drive system

If you are buying an AWD Outlander, check that the system operates correctly.

Ask the seller whether the vehicle has regularly been driven on rough roads, gravel or other difficult surfaces.

Look underneath the vehicle for dents, scratches, leaks or other signs of damage.

If you are buying an Outlander PHEV with an electric AWD system, ask a qualified technician to check the drivetrain if you have any concerns.

Interior and electronics

The Outlander has a range of electronic features, so check that everything works properly.

Test:

• Touchscreen
• Reversing camera
• Parking sensors
• Air conditioning
• Heating
• Electric windows
• Mirrors
• Central locking
• Key fobs
• Audio system
• Bluetooth and phone connection
• Driver-assistance features

Look for damaged seats, worn interior trim or signs of water entering the cabin.

If the vehicle has seven seats, check that the rear seats fold and operate correctly.

Body and accident damage

Inspect the body panels carefully for dents, scratches, mismatched paint and signs of previous repairs.

Check the:

• Front and rear bumpers
• Doors
• Guards
• Bonnet
• Tailgate
• Windscreen
• Wheels
• Underbody

A clean-looking vehicle may still have had accident repairs, so check its history before buying.

Check the Mitsubishi Outlander’s service history

The 2025 Outlander has scheduled maintenance requirements, and Mitsubishi’s maintenance schedule lists servicing at specified time and kilometre intervals [3].

Ask the seller for the service book, invoices and any other maintenance records.

Check that:

• Scheduled services have been completed.
• Odometer readings are consistent.
• Engine oil and filters have been changed as required.
• Brake components have been inspected.
• Tyres have been maintained.
• AWD components have been serviced where applicable.
• PHEV systems have received the required maintenance.

Mitsubishi’s capped-price servicing information lists scheduled service intervals of 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first, for the applicable Outlander model and program [3].

A missing service record does not automatically mean the vehicle is a bad purchase, but you should ask the seller why the records are incomplete.

Mitsubishi Outlander recalls in Australia

Some Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles have been subject to safety recalls in Australia.

For example, a recall published in April 2025 affected certain 2022–2023 Outlander Exceed and Exceed Tourer vehicles. A defect in the steering wheel touch sensors could cause the MI-PILOT system not to detect the driver’s hands correctly [4].

Another recall affected certain 2021–2023 Outlander and Outlander PHEV vehicles because a software issue could temporarily disrupt the rear-view camera image while reversing [5].

These recalls do not mean that every 2025 Outlander is affected. Recall coverage depends on the vehicle’s VIN, build date and variant.

Before buying, check the vehicle’s VIN through the Australian Government’s vehicle recall database and confirm any outstanding work with Mitsubishi [6].

Ask the seller whether all applicable recall repairs have been completed.

Check the warranty

A used 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander may still have a significant amount of its original warranty remaining.

Mitsubishi’s Diamond Advantage program provides eligible vehicles with a standard new-vehicle warranty and additional benefits subject to the applicable terms and servicing requirements [2].

The main traction battery in an eligible EV or PHEV is covered for eight years or 160,000km, whichever comes first [2].

Before buying, ask the seller for:

• Original delivery or registration date
• Service history
• Warranty records
• Details of any warranty repairs
• PHEV battery warranty information, if applicable
• Evidence that scheduled services were completed on time

Confirm the remaining warranty with Mitsubishi rather than assuming the vehicle has the full warranty period remaining.

What else should I check before buying a used Mitsubishi Outlander?

Before handing over your money, check:

• VIN and registration
• Odometer reading
• Service history
• Finance owing
• Written-off status
• Stolen status
• Accident history
• Engine
• Transmission
• PHEV battery, if fitted
• Charging system, if applicable
• Brakes
• Tyres
• Suspension and steering
• AWD system, if fitted
• Air conditioning
• Touchscreen
• Reversing camera
• Safety features
• Recall status
• Remaining warranty
• Number of keys supplied

It is also a good idea to have the Outlander inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it.

If you are buying an Outlander PHEV, consider using a mechanic or workshop experienced with hybrid and electric vehicles.

How can I check the history of a used Mitsubishi Outlander?

Buying a used Mitsubishi Outlander is not just about checking the engine, battery and interior. A physical inspection can identify some mechanical problems, but it cannot tell you everything about the vehicle’s past.

A vehicle history report can help identify important information, including whether the vehicle has been reported as written off or stolen, whether finance is owing and whether its recorded history matches the seller’s claims.

A PPSR check (formarly know as REVS) is particularly important when buying a used vehicle in Australia. It can help identify whether a security interest has been registered against the vehicle.

Before you buy, check the Outlander’s history, take it for a test drive and arrange an independent inspection if needed.

Do your checks before you buy. Knowing the Mitsubishi Outlander’s history and condition can help you avoid unexpected costs and give you greater peace of mind.

Related ariticle: Buyers checkliste for Mazda CX-5

References

[1] Mitsubishi Motors Australia, Mitsubishi Outlander. Official information on the 2025 Outlander, including engines, PHEV technology, AWD, seating and safety. Mitsubishi Outlander Australia Mitsubishi Motors Australia

[2] Mitsubishi Motors Australia, Diamond Advantage Warranty Terms and Conditions. The Mitsubishi warranty terms state that the main power traction battery for EV and PHEV vehicles is covered for eight years or 160,000km, whichever comes first, subject to the applicable terms. Mitsubishi Motors Australia

[3] Mitsubishi Motors Australia, 25MY Outlander Inspection and Maintenance Schedule. The 2025 Outlander maintenance schedule provides the recommended inspection and maintenance requirements for the vehicle. Mitsubishi Motors Australia

[4] Australian Government, Recall REC-006322 – Mitsubishi Outlander 2022–2023. The recall concerned steering-wheel touch sensors used by the MI-PILOT system on certain Outlander variants. Vehicle Recalls

[5] Australian Government, Recall REC-005692 – Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander PHEV 2021–2023. The recall concerned a software issue that could temporarily disrupt the rear-view camera image while reversing. Vehicle Recalls

[6] Australian Government, Vehicle Recalls. The official Australian vehicle recall database can be used to search for safety recalls affecting vehicles. Vehicle Recalls