Mitsubishi Outlander ZM Inspection Checklist

lowInfotainment / A-IVI glitches and connectivity dropouts

Look for: The Smartphone-link / A-IVI head unit can suffer freezes, reboots, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto dropouts and Bluetooth disconnects; some need firmware updates or a unit replacement.

If you find it: Apply the latest A-IVI firmware first; use a quality cable for wired CarPlay; replace the unit if hardware-faulty.

Any · ~$0-1500

lowInterior rattles, trim and squeaks

Look for: Owners report cabin rattles and squeaks (dash, third-row and tailgate trim) and the odd loose interior fitting - common on the early ZM build despite the otherwise big lift in cabin quality.

If you find it: Have the dealer locate and re-secure or pad the offending trim under warranty; mostly cosmetic.

Any · ~$0-500

lowRoad and engine noise under load

Look for: The petrol's CVT lets engine revs flare and drone on hills and during overtaking, and tyre/road noise on coarse-chip Australian surfaces is noticeable - a refinement trait rather than a fault.

If you find it: Quieter tyres help road noise; no mechanical fix for the CVT drone - it is inherent to the powertrain.

Any · Varies

lowValve lash / no hydraulic lifters (top-end ticking)

Look for: The PR25DD uses solid (mechanical) valve adjustment rather than hydraulic lifters, so valve clearances can drift and produce a top-end tick that requires a manual lash adjustment - not a typical modern-engine service item and easy to overlook.

If you find it: Have valve clearances checked/adjusted if a top-end tick develops; otherwise no action needed.

From 100k+ km · ~$300-900

lowStart-stop system glitching / battery faults

Look for: The auto stop-start system can become erratic - failing to restart smoothly, refusing to stop the engine, or throwing warnings - often traced to a tired 12V battery or sensor, a common complaint on this engine family.

If you find it: Test/replace the 12V (and AGM/sub) battery; reset and update software if the fault persists.

Any · ~$200-600

lowRegenerative-brake / friction-brake corrosion and wear

Look for: Heavy reliance on regenerative braking means the friction brakes do little work and can corrode or seize - rotors pitting and calipers sticking - particularly in coastal/humid areas, a known trait of regen-heavy hybrids.

If you find it: Periodically use the friction brakes harder to clean the discs; service/clean calipers and slides; replace corroded rotors as needed.

From 60k+ km · ~$300-1500

Outlander ZM inspection checklist

All engines

2.5L PR25DD petrol

2.4L PHEV plug-in hybrid (S-AWC)