Recalls: Mitsubishi’s 2013 Outlander Sport recalled for defective front strut towers

Mitsubishi Motors and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have issued a recall for the 2013 Outlander Sport. A defect was found for 305 units for an improperly welded stabilizer link on the front strut towers.

They are at risk of severing, according to the statement, which could increase the risk of crash by significantly altering the handling and braking characteristics of the car.

Mitsubishi will of course notify all of the owners affected by this recall and will replace the entire assembly free of charge.

For full details, check out the press release after the jump.

Report Receipt Date: JUL 08, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V300000
Component(s): SUSPENSION
Potential Number of Units Affected: 305
Vehicle Model Year(s) Make Model: 2013 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT
Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

SUMMARY:
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2013 Outlander Sport vehicles manufactured January 17, 2013, through January 25, 2013. The stabilizer link on the front strut was improperly welded. As a result, the link may detach and cause damage to the tire and/or brake hose.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the stabilizer link bracket damages the tire and/or brake line, the driver may have more difficulty controlling the steering of the vehicle, or the vehicle may require a longer stopping distance to come to a complete and controlled stop. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the front left strut assembly free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact MMNA at 1-800-222-0037. MMNA’s recall number is SR-13-008.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

– By: Chris Chin