Mitsubishi Outlander Brake Caliper Issues

The braking system is arguably the most critical safety feature on any vehicle, and at the heart of this system lies the brake caliper. Responsible for clamping the brake pads onto the rotor to slow or stop the vehicle, a malfunctioning caliper can have severe consequences. Mitsubishi Outlander owners have, unfortunately, reported a number of issues pertaining to their brake disc calipers, with 15 problems specifically logged under the 'service brakes' category. This article delves into these reported issues, exploring common symptoms, potential causes, and the experiences of owners.

Understanding Brake Caliper Function

Before we dive into the problems, it's essential to understand what a brake caliper does. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is pushed into the caliper, forcing one or more pistons to extend. These pistons then press the brake pads against the rotating brake disc (rotor). This friction creates the force needed to slow down the vehicle. The caliper essentially acts like a clamp, and its proper functioning is paramount for effective braking.

Common Brake Caliper Problems Reported for Mitsubishi Outlander

Based on owner reports, several recurring themes emerge regarding Mitsubishi Outlander brake caliper issues:

1. Caliper Seizing and Sticking

One of the most frequently cited problems is a caliper that seizes or sticks. This can manifest in several ways:

• Burning Odour and Hot Wheels: As reported for a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander, a burning smell and hot wheels after disengaging the parking brake indicated that the rear calipers were corroded and rubbing against the brakes. This constant friction generates excessive heat and can lead to premature wear of brake pads and rotors.
• Non-functional Parking Brake: For a 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander, parts of the brake caliper related to the parking brake became stuck, rendering the parking brake entirely non-functional. This is a significant safety concern, especially when parking on inclines.
• Frozen Calipers: Several owners have reported 'frozen' calipers. For a 2016 model, the driver's side caliper froze, and the dealer acknowledged the issue. This can cause the brakes to drag, leading to poor fuel economy and excessive heat.
• Intermittent Sticking: A 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander experienced the right rear caliper rubbing and sticking intermittently. It would stop after a few miles, and the issue was more pronounced in colder weather (below 40°F).

2. Corrosion and Wear

Corrosion appears to be a significant contributing factor to caliper failure. For a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, a parking brake recall did not resolve the corrosion and locking of rear parking brake calipers. This led to the vehicle rolling when in gear and turned off, and the parking brake failing to engage fully, yet still sticking.

Another report from a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander highlights premature wear of brake pads and a broken caliper rubber protector after only 25,000 miles and one year of use. While the dealer blamed driving habits for the pad wear, the broken protector suggests an underlying issue with the caliper's integrity.

3. Reduced Braking Performance

A faulty caliper can directly impact the vehicle's ability to stop effectively. A 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander owner reported that pressing the brake pedal did not result in an immediate stop, leading to extended stopping distances. The dealership diagnosed a faulty brake caliper that required replacement.

4. ABS System Malfunctions

There are also concerning reports linking caliper issues to the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). A 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander owner experienced a sudden stop where the ABS system did not respond properly, causing the car to slide. This owner also noted premature wear of rear brake pads and a broken caliper rubber protector, raising questions about a potential connection between caliper health and ABS function.

Furthermore, a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander owner was involved in a crash where the car slid straight forward during braking, with no ABS pulsation. Shortly after, Mitsubishi issued a recall for a "parking break" problem, suggesting the piston assembly of the rear brake caliper might have contributed to the ABS failure. This highlights a potentially serious safety flaw that could affect braking performance under emergency conditions.

5. Caliper Leaks and Replacements

Multiple reports detail caliper failures requiring replacement. A 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander experienced a left rear caliper failure damaging the rotor, followed by a right rear caliper failure on the same vehicle shortly after. The dealer noted the left side was now leaking when attempting to replace the right side's components. The owner expressed concern about the frequent failures and the availability of parts, questioning if a recall should be issued.

Cost and Availability of Parts

The cost and availability of replacement calipers can also be a point of contention. One owner of a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander found it impossible to locate a replacement caliper outside of the dealership. The dealer quoted a steep price of $570.88 for a single caliper, which the owner considered excessive and potentially indicative of price gouging. This issue of limited availability and high cost can be a significant burden for owners facing frequent repairs.

Recalls and Owner Concerns

Several reports mention recalls related to brake issues. However, some owners feel their specific vehicles are not included in these recalls, despite experiencing similar problems. The lack of parts availability to perform recall repairs, as noted for a 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander, further exacerbates the situation.

The recurring nature of these problems, particularly the freezing and seizing of calipers, has led owners to question the overall quality and reliability of the brake components used in certain Mitsubishi Outlander models. Safety concerns are paramount, with owners rightly worried about the potential for accidents due to compromised braking systems.

Troubleshooting and Prevention Tips

While specific manufacturer defects are beyond the scope of individual owner control, proactive maintenance can help mitigate some risks:

• Regular Inspections: Have your brakes inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic. Look for signs of brake fluid leaks, uneven pad wear, or unusual noises.
• Listen for Warning Signs: Pay attention to any new sounds when braking, such as grinding, squealing, or clicking. Also, be aware of changes in pedal feel, like sponginess or a longer stopping distance.
• Address Parking Brake Issues Promptly: If you notice your parking brake not engaging properly or sticking, have it checked immediately. This could be an early indicator of caliper problems.
• Keep Calipers Clean: While difficult for an owner to do comprehensively, ensuring the caliper area is free from excessive dirt and road salt can help prevent corrosion.
• Check for Recalls: Regularly check for any open recalls on your vehicle through the NHTSA website or your local dealership.

Mitsubishi Outlander Brake Caliper Problem Statistics (Based on Reported Issues)

While the total number of reported issues is relatively small compared to the total number of Outlanders on the road, the recurring nature of specific problems like seizing and corrosion is notable.

Note: This table is based on the specific 15 problems provided in the prompt and may not represent the complete picture of all issues experienced by owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a bad brake caliper?

Signs of a bad brake caliper include a burning smell, pulling to one side when braking, uneven brake pad wear, a spongy brake pedal, brake warning lights on the dashboard, and grinding or squealing noises when braking.

Can you drive with a faulty brake caliper?

It is strongly advised not to drive with a faulty brake caliper. A sticking or seized caliper can cause the brakes to drag, leading to overheating, potential fire hazards, and significantly reduced braking performance. This compromises your safety and the safety of others on the road.

How much does it cost to replace a brake caliper?

The cost to replace a brake caliper can vary significantly depending on the vehicle make and model, the specific caliper required, and labour rates. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £150 to £400 per caliper, including parts and labour, although as seen in owner reports, some dealership prices can be considerably higher.

What causes brake calipers to fail?

Brake calipers can fail due to several factors, including wear and tear over time, corrosion from road salt and moisture, damage from road debris, and leaks in the hydraulic system. Poor quality brake fluid or improper installation can also contribute to premature failure.

Conclusion

While the Mitsubishi Outlander is a popular SUV, the reported issues with its brake calipers, particularly concerning seizing, corrosion, and potential links to ABS malfunctions, warrant attention. Owners experiencing any of the symptoms discussed should seek professional diagnosis and repair promptly. Awareness of these potential problems and proactive maintenance are key to ensuring the safety and reliability of your vehicle's braking system. If you own a Mitsubishi Outlander and suspect a brake issue, it is crucial to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to prevent more serious and potentially dangerous situations.