
An engine issue is responsible for the recall of more than 106,000 Mitsubishi vehicles, where an ancillary drive belt can wear unevenly, leading to several possible problems.
In a worst case scenario, the "inappropriate material" used on the ancillary drive belt can cause it to come off, leading to a loss of steering, electrical and drive power, which "poses a potential collision hazard" according to the recall notice.
Mitsubishi ASX, Lancer and Outlander models built between August 28, 2006 and June 17, 2011, are affected by the recall, the weak drive belt posing a problem to vehicles powered by 4B11 or 4B12 four-cylinder petrol engines, around 106,000 vehicles in total.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited says it will contact owners directly, and customers who want more information can call 1300 131 211. As for most recalls, owners will be directed to their nearest dealership for a replacement ancillary drive belt to be fitted.
Two other recalls have been issued by Mitsubishi, affecting the brakes of the Mitsubishi ASX compact SUV.
One issue pertains to a total of 710 Mitsubishi ASX petrol models (these vehicles are also part of the engine recall) built between June 6 and August 17, 2010. For vehicles affected, the brake pedal may not release after being pressed in the worst case scenario. The problem affects both auto and manual models and is due to the "inappropriate installation of the switch sleeve in the brake booster," of which "the tip of the switch sleeve may break," according to the recall notice.
The second recall is pertinent to Mitsubishi Outlander SUV owners, with 8788 vehicles built between January 9, 2007, and January 8, 2009 affected – 7194 of these vehicles included in the drive belt recall. The issue relates to "poor conductivity caused by the presence of an insulating material" that can cause the brake light switch to operate incorrectly.
The recall notice states in some vehicles this may "prevent the gear shift lever being moved from the parking position".