Mitsubishi Calls Back 17,000 Outlanders for Fuel Pump Defect

Mitsubishi is recalling some 17,000 Outlander sport utility vehicles over a serious defect that may be a recipe for disaster on the road.

Shoddy fuel pump wiring could cause engines to stall unexpectedly, according to the Japanese automaker. Mitsubishi told federal regulators that a parts supplier is to blame for the problem.

“Due to inappropriate manufacturing process at the supplier, the commutator and wires in the fuel pump may not be fused correctly during production, resulting in poor continuity,” the company said in a notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “As a result, the commutator and the brushes in the fuel pump could wear abnormally in use, causing the fuel pump to be inoperative.”

The defect puts drivers, passengers and others at risk, Mitsubishi acknowledged.

“If the fuel pump does not operate, the engine may stall while driving, which increases risk of a crash,” the company told NHTSA.

The recall covers certain 2022 Outlander SUVs, which were produced between February and October 2021.

The company said it would notify owners of recalled cars by March 18. They will be asked to bring their cars to a local dealer to have fuel pumps replaced, free of charge.

California Car Owners’ Rights

This is not the first time that Mitsubishi has had to call back cars for serious defects long after they have been sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Last year, for example, the company recalled nearly 4,000 Outlanders because of defective seat belts. Months earlier, it recalled 170,000 Outlanders because of faulty parking brakes.

The company is not alone. Major auto manufacturers recall millions of vehicles every year, citing serious defects that pose significant safety risks.

The good news is that car owners and lessors in California have some valuable rights and protections under the state’s lemon law. A California lemon law attorney can help you take action and fight back. 

Also known as the Song Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, the lemon law forces car manufacturers to perform a full range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also requires the companies to buy back cars that they cannot or refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the down payment, as well as financing charges, towing, rental vehicles and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced California lemon law attorney. The law obligates manufacturers to pick up the tab for any legal fees you incur while enforcing your rights.

Speak with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.