check engine light MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER XL 2012 Owners Manual

Quick index
1
If this warning light comes on or flashes while you’re driving...
N00200701064
NOTE
For information regarding warning displays in the multi-information display, refer to “Multi-information display” on page 3-
165.

These warning lights will come on for a few seconds for a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned to “ON”.
Warning lights
Do this
Ref. Page
Charging system warning light
Park your vehicle in a safe place and stop the engine.
Contact your Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice for
assistance.P. 3-212
or
Brake warning light
If this light comes on while driving, check to see that the parking brake is
fully released.

If this light stays on after releasing the parking brake, immediately stop and
check the brake fluid level.

If the brake fluid level is correct, there may be a system malfunction. Avoid
hard braking and high speed, and contact an authorized Mitsubishi Motors
dealer or a repair facility of your choice for assistance.P. 3-210
or
Engine malfunction indicator
(“SERVICE ENGINE SOON” or
“Check engine light”)
Although your vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing, have the
engine system checked at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair
facility of your choice as soon as possible. If the vehicle is not drivable, con-
tact emergency roadside assistance at 1-888-648-7820 (for vehicles sold in
U.S.A.) or 1-888-576-4878 (for vehicles sold in Canada), an authorized Mit-
subishi Motors dealer, or local towing company for assistance.P. 3-211
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2 Quick indexAnti-lock braking system warning
light
When this light comes on, the anti-lock braking system is not functioning and
only the ordinary braking system is functioning.

Park your vehicle in a safe place and stop the engine.
Test the system as described on page 3-134.

If the light does not go out after the test, or if it comes on again, we recom-
mend that you have the system checked at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors
dealer or a repair facility of your choice as soon as possible.P. 3-134
SRS warning light
It is not necessary to stop the vehicle immediately, but we recommend that
you have the airbag and the pre-tensioner seat belt system checked at an
authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer as soon as possible.P. 2-70
Tire pressure monitoring system
warning light
If the warning light comes on, you should stop and adjust the tires to the
proper inflation pressure as soon as possible.
(See “Tire inflation pressures” on page 7-27.)
Once adjustments have been made, the warning light will go off after a few
minutes of driving.

If the warning light blinks for approximately 1 minute and then remains con-
tinuously illuminated, the system is not operating properly. If the system
returns to normal, the warning light will go off. If the warning light does not
go off, have the vehicle inspected at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer.P. 3-150
Warning lights
Do this
Ref. Page
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4 Quick indexThe windows are fogged up.
1. Set the mode selection dial to the “ ” or “ ” position.
2. Turn on the blower.P. 5-14, 5-23,
5-33, 5-43
The engine does not start.
The lights do not come on.
The lights are dim.
The horn does not honk.
The horn sound is weak.Have the battery checked. Recharge or replace as needed.P. 6 - 2
P. 7 - 2 1
Problem
Do this
Ref. Page
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General information
1-3
1
Reformulated gasolineMany areas of the country require the use of cleaner burning
fuel referred to as “Reformulated Gasoline”.
Reformulated gasoline contains oxygenates and is specially
blended to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation strongly supports the use of
reformulated gasoline. Properly blended reformulated gasoline
has no adverse effect on vehicle performance or the durability
of engine and fuel system.MMT (methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tri-
carbonyl)MMT is a manganese-containing metallic additive that is
blended into some gasolines to increase the octane number.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation recommends using gasolines
without MMT.
Use of gasolines blended with MMT may adversely affect per-
formance, and cause the malfunction indicator on your instru-
ment panel to come on. If this happens, contact an authorized
Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice for
assistance.Sulfur in gasolineYour vehicle may have been designed to satisfy California’s
low-emission regulations based on clean-burning low-sulfur
gasoline. Gasoline sold in parts of the country other than Cali-
fornia is allowed to have a higher sulfur content. Using such
gasoline could adversely affect the vehicle’s catalytic converter
and cause the engine malfunction indicator (“SERVICE
ENGINE SOON” or “Check engine light”) to come on. Illumi-
nation of this indicator while you are using high-sulfur gaso-
line does not necessarily mean the vehicle’s emission-controlsystem is malfunctioning. Your authorized Mitsubishi Motors
dealer may suggest you try using a different, lower-sulfur
brand of unleaded gasoline to determine whether the problem
is fuel-related.
NOTE
Poor-quality gasoline can cause problems such as poor
starting, stalling during idling, abnormal engine noise, and
poor acceleration. If you experience any of these prob-
lems, try using a different brand of gasoline. If the engine
malfunction indicator (“SERVICE ENGINE SOON” or
“Check engine light”) flashes, have the vehicle inspected
as soon as possible by the nearest authorized Mitsubishi
Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice.

Repeatedly driving short distances at low speeds can
cause deposits to form in the fuel system and engine,
resulting in poor starting and poor acceleration. If these
problems occur, you are advised to add a detergent addi-
tive to the gasoline when you refuel the vehicle. The addi-
tive will remove the deposits, thereby returning the engine
to a normal condition. Be sure to use a genuine Mitsubishi
cleaning additive. Using an unsuitable additive could
make the engine malfunction. For details, please contact
the nearest authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer.
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1-6 General information
1
NOTE
If the fuel tank filler cap is not tight while driving, the
engine malfunction indicator (“SERVICE ENGINE
SOON” or “Check engine light”) may come on when the
onboard diagnostic (OBD) system performs a self check.
Always tighten the fuel tank filler cap until you hear at
least 3 clicks.
The indicator will go off after driving several times. If the
indicator does not go off, contact your authorized Mitsub-
ishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice as
soon as possible.
Modifications to and racing of your vehicle
N00301600152
This vehicle should not be modified with non-Mitsubishi
Motors genuine parts. Mitsubishi Motors designs and manufac-
tures high quality vehicles with an emphasis on safety and
durability. Modifications using non-Mitsubishi Motors genuine
parts may affect the performance, safety and/or durability of
your vehicle, and may violate applicable state and/or federal
regulations.
DAMAGE OR PERFORMANCE PROBLEMS RESULTING
FROM MODIFICATIONS TO OR RACING OF YOUR
VEHICLE ARE NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.
Examples of modifications to your vehicle that can cause dam-
age or performance problems include the following:

Failure to use Mitsubishi Motors genuine parts

Failure to use required fuel and fluids

Failure to use proper size tires and wheels

Modification of the fuel, intake, exhaust, emission, sus-
pension, engine, drive train or electrical wiring systems

Modification of any onboard computer/control module,
including reprogramming, or replacing/adding chips to
any onboard computer/control module
Review the Warranty and Maintenance Manual for further
details regarding warranty coverage.
CAUTION
!
If you need to replace the fuel tank filler cap, use
only the cap specified for your model vehicle.
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Features and controls
3-103
3
Passing accelerationTo gain extra acceleration in “D” (DRIVE) position (when
passing another vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The
automatic transaxle will automatically downshift.NOTE
In sports mode, downshifts do not take place when the
accelerator is depressed all the way to the floor.WaitingFor short waiting periods, such as at traffic lights, the vehicle
can be left in gear and held stationary with the service brake.
For longer waiting periods with the engine running, place the
selector lever in the “N” (NEUTRAL) position and apply the
parking brake, while holding the vehicle stationary with the
service brake.
Prior to moving off after having stopped the vehicle, make sure
that the selector lever is in “D” (DRIVE) position or Sports
mode position.
ParkingTo park the vehicle, first bring it to a complete stop, fully
engage the parking brake, and then move the selector lever to
the “P” (PARK) position.When the automatic transaxle makes no gear changeIf the transaxle does not change gears while driving, or your
vehicle does not pick up enough speed when starting on an
uphill slope, it may be that there is something unusual happen-
ing in the transaxle, causing a safety device to activate. Have
your vehicle checked at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors
dealer or a repair facility of your choice as soon as possible.NOTE
When the warning display and “SLOW DOWN” or the
warning display and “SERVICE REQUIRED” appear
on the information screen in the multi-information dis-
play, there could be a malfunction in the automatic tran-
saxle. Refer to “Automatic transaxle: Warning display”
on page 3-98.
CAUTION
!
To avoid transaxle overheating, never try to keep
your vehicle stationary on a hill by using the acceler-
ator pedal. Always apply the parking brake and/or
service brake.
Do not rev the engine unnecessarily while the vehicle
is stationary. Unexpected acceleration may occur if
the selector lever is in a position other than “P”
(PARK) or “N” (NEUTRAL).
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Features and controls
3-113
3
Passing accelerationTo gain extra acceleration in “D” (DRIVE) position (when
passing another vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The
CVT will automatically downshift.NOTE
In sports mode, downshifts do not take place when the
accelerator is depressed all the way to the floor.WaitingFor short waiting periods, such as at traffic lights, the vehicle
can be left in selector lever position and held stationary with
the service brake.
For longer waiting periods with the engine running, place the
selector lever in the “N” (NEUTRAL) position and apply the
parking brake, while holding the vehicle stationary with the
service brake.
Prior to moving off after having stopped the vehicle, make sure
that the selector lever is in “D” (DRIVE) position or Sports
mode position.
ParkingTo park the vehicle, first bring it to a complete stop, fully
engage the parking brake, and then move the selector lever to
the “P” (PARK) position.When the CVT makes no speed changeIf the CVT does not shift while driving, or your vehicle does
not pick up enough speed when starting on an uphill slope, it
may be that there is something unusual happening in the trans-
mission, causing a safety device to activate. Have your vehicle
checked at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair
facility of your choice as soon as possible.NOTE
When the warning display and “SLOW DOWN” or the
warning display and “SERVICE REQUIRED” appear
on the information screen in the multi-information dis-
play, there could be a malfunction in the CVT. Refer to
“Continuously variable transmission (CVT): Warning dis-
play” on page 3-108.
CAUTION
!
To avoid transmission overheating, never try to keep
your vehicle stationary on a hill by using the acceler-
ator pedal. Always apply the parking brake and/or
service brake.
Do not rev the engine unnecessarily while the vehicle
is stationary. Unexpected acceleration may occur if
the selector lever is in a position other than “P”
(PARK) or “N” (NEUTRAL).
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Features and controls
3-125
3
NOTE
Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration and sharp
turning; such operations could result in the vehicle
becoming stuck.

If the vehicle becomes stuck in sandy or muddy roads, it
can often be moved with a rocking motion. Move the
selector lever alternately between the “D” (DRIVE) and
“R” (REVERSE) positions while pressing lightly on the
accelerator pedal.

Driving on rough road can cause rust on the vehicle; wash
the vehicle thoroughly as soon as possible after such use.Climbing/descending sharp gradesYour vehicle may not provide sufficient hill climbing ability
and engine braking on steep slope. Avoid driving on steep
slopes even though the vehicle is an 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Driving through water
N00537800085
If the electrical circuits become wet, further operation of the
vehicle will be impossible; therefore, avoid driving through
water unless absolutely necessary. If driving through water is
unavoidable, use the following procedure:
Check the depth of the water and the terrain before attempting
to drive through it. Drive slowly to avoid creating excessive
water splashing.
CAUTION
!
Never drive through water that is deep enough to
cover wheel hubs, axles or exhaust pipe. Do not
change the selector lever position while driving
through water.
Frequent driving through water can adversely affect
the life span of the vehicle; consult an authorized
Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your
choice and take the necessary measures to prepare,
inspect, and repair the vehicle.
After driving through water, apply the brakes to be
sure they are functioning properly. If the brakes are
wet and not functioning properly, dry them out by
driving slowly while lightly depressing the brake
pedal. Inspect each part of the vehicle carefully.
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3-126 Features and controls
3Inspection and maintenance following
rough road operation
N00530700085
After operating the vehicle in rough road conditions, be sure to
perform the following inspection and maintenance procedures:

Check that the vehicle has not been damaged by rocks,
gravel, etc.

Carefully wash the vehicle with water.
Drive the vehicle slowly while lightly depressing the
brake pedal in order to dry out the brakes. If the brakes
still do not function properly, contact an authorized Mit-
subishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice as
soon as possible to have the brakes checked.

Remove the insects, dried grass, etc. clogging the radiator
core.

After driving through water, check the engine, transaxle
and differential oil. If the oil or grease is milky or cloudy
because of water contamination, it must be replaced with
new oil.

Check the inside of the vehicle. If water entry is found,
dry the carpet etc.

Inspect the headlights. If water is in the headlight housing,
have it drained at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer
or a repair facility of your choice.
Cautions on the handling of 4-wheel drive
vehicles
N00530800161
Tires and wheelsSince the driving torque can be applied to the four wheels, the
driving performance of the vehicle when operating in 4-wheel
drive is greatly affected by the condition of the tires.
Pay close attention to the tires.

Install only the specified tires on all wheels. Refer to
“Tires and wheels” on page 9-10.

Be sure all four tires and wheels are the same size and
type.
When it is necessary to replace any of the tires or wheels,
replace all four.

All tires should be rotated before the wear difference
between the front and rear tires is recognizable.
Good vehicle performance cannot be expected if there is a dif-
ference in wear between tires. Refer to “Tire rotation” on page
7-30.

Check the tire inflation pressure regularly.
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Features and controls
3-133
3 Anti-lock braking system
N00517900240
The anti-lock braking system helps prevent the wheels from
locking up when braking. This helps maintain vehicle drivabil-
ity and steering wheel handling.Driving hints
When using the anti-lock brakes (sudden braking), steer-
ing is slightly different from normal driving conditions.
Use the steering wheel carefully.

Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of
you. Even if your vehicle is equipped with the anti-lock
braking system, leave a greater braking distance when:
• Driving on gravel or snow-covered roads.
• Driving on uneven road surfaces.

Operation of anti-lock braking system is not restricted sit-
uations where brakes are applied suddenly. This system
may also prevent the wheels from locking when you drive
over manholes, steel roadwork plates, road markings, or
any uneven road surface.

When the anti-lock braking system is in use, you may feel
the brake pedal vibrating and hear a unique sound. It may
also feel as if the pedal resists being pressed.
In this situation, simply hold the brake pedal down
firmly. Do not pump the brake, which will result in
reduced braking performance.
NOTE
A whining sound is emitted from the engine compartment
when driving immediately after starting the engine. These
are the normal sounds the anti-lock braking system makes
when performing a self-check. It does not indicate a mal-
function.

The anti-lock braking system can be used after the vehicle
has reached a speed over approximately 6 mph (10 km/h).
It stops working when the vehicle slows below 3 mph (5
km/h).
CAUTION
!
The anti-lock braking system cannot prevent acci-
dents. It is your responsibility to take safety precau-
tions and to drive carefully.
To prevent failure of the anti-lock braking system,
be sure all 4 wheels and tires are the same size and
the same type.
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