Mitsubishi Motors North America issues major recall of nearly 200,000 SUVs over software flaw; check the affected models

Time of India

2 days ago

Source: New York Post
Mitsubishi Motors North America has recalled in the US around 198,940 vehicles because of a software problem where the rearview camera froze or blacked out, which clearly would enhance the risk of crashes. It impacts the 2022–2025 Outlander and Outlander PHEV. The recall, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on June 2, 2025, builds on a related 2023 recall. Drivers can be faced with a loss of rear visibility, particularly when reversing shortly after initialisation.
Mitsubishi will notify owners with a free software update to resolve the glitch, with owner notifications scheduled to start by the end of June 2025 based on the reports.
Mitsubishi Motors recalls SUVs in the US: Check models affected
The recall affects around 198,940 vehicles, mostly in the Outlander and Outlander PHEV range, according to Mitsubishi. The models affected are:
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2022 to 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander (gasoline-powered SUVs)
2023 to 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles)
These well-known midsize SUVs are frequently driven by commuters and families, so the problem might impact a lot of drivers on the road every day.
Why Mitsubishi Motors recalled SUVs
The recall centers around faulty programming in the car's software, particularly in the rearview camera system. Mitsubishi found that:
The rearview image can freeze when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.
In others, the screen might not display at all, leaving it blank.
This fault can happen especially when the car is put into reverse within 40 seconds of it being started or left in reverse gear for longer than 6 seconds.
The outcome is an impaired rearward field of vision, which is essential for seeing pedestrians, obstacles, or other cars when reversing. The NHTSA requires all vehicles produced after May 2018 to have working rear visibility technology. This software defect breaches those safety standards, subjecting the drivers and pedestrians to a higher risk of accidents and crashes.
Mitsubishi Motors recall: From complaints to nationwide recall timeline
The origins of this recall are traced back to May 2023, when Mitsubishi initially announced Recall No. 23V345 for the same issue. Then, close to 90,000 vehicles were recalled. Customers' and dealers' complaints explained:
The rearview screen goes dark upon reversing.
A stuck or unresponsive audio system.
The system rebooted in the middle of a drive, causing distractions or loss of sight assistance.
In January 2024, reports surfaced detailing total screen freeze-ups. By March 2024, Mitsubishi received more complaints about camera blackout occurring while the car was in motion and presented additional safety hazards.
During a two-year period, Mitsubishi received:
6 formal field reports referencing software performance issues.
358 warranty claims on account of this flaw.
Following further research and in-house testing, the company decided on May 23, 2025, that a full-blown recall was required to avoid further accidents.
Mitsubishi Motors: Fixing the issue
To correct the malfunction, Mitsubishi will reflash the camera system software in all of the impacted vehicles. This will make the rearview camera turn on correctly and reliably when the car is put in reverse.
Cars already repaired under the 2023 recall will also need the new update since this is an upgraded and revised repair.
New cars made on or after April 22, 2025, already have the corrected software and are not included in this recall.
The software update will be done free of charge to the car owner by certified Mitsubishi dealerships.
This software reflash is a non-surgical repair that doesn't involve replacement parts but does involve a technician flashing the new software onto the vehicle's system.
When will recall notices be released
Mitsubishi has established a definitive schedule to inform the parties involved:
Dealers will be notified on June 16, 2025.
Vehicle owners will be notified by mail beginning June 30, 2025.
These notices will include instructions on where and how to schedule the repair. For owners who paid out-of-pocket for previous related issues, the letter will also explain how to apply for reimbursement through Mitsubishi's Customer Relations Department.
What Mitsubishi Motors recall means for drivers
This recall underscores the increasing complexity and importance of automotive software in modern vehicles. Even a seemingly minor code error can significantly impact safety. Mitsubishi's prompt response in expanding the recall after more cases emerged shows the critical role of customer feedback and ongoing dealer reports in vehicle safety oversight. They are urged to take action immediately upon getting a notice of recall since rearview visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially in driveways, parking lots, and busy city environments.