Mitsubishi Recalls Nearly 40,000 2008-2009 Lancer/Outlanders

Mitsubishi is recalling a total of 39,711 model year 2008 and 2009 Lancer and Outlander vehicles due to what seems to be a glitch concerning the braking system of these two particular models. A notification published on the official website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or if you prefer NHTSA, warns that this glitch would eventually lead to a crash unless the faulty parts are replaced by authorized dealerships.

NHTSA explains that "incorrect material composition of the brake booster check valve may cause the check valve to stick closed when the engine is shut off. When the vehicle is restarted and put into motion, under certain driving conditions (very slow vehicle maneuvers), there may be insufficient initial braking assist".

Obviously, such a glitch would only "temporarily increase the stopping distance of the vehicle" which would, in its turn, increase the risk of a crash.

In case you own one of the affected models, you'd better get it checked at an authorized Mitsubishi dealership. Obviously, dealers will replace the brake booster check valve free of charge, with recalls expected to being in April 2009.

The last generation Mitsubishi Lancer is being offered with a choice of two engine configurations, as it follows: a 1.8-liter 16V developing 142 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque (0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds and top speed of 129.9 mph/209 km/h) and a 2.0-liter 16V unit with maximum output of 146 horsepower and 143.1 lb-ft of torque.

The Outlander on the other hand offers three engine versions, with the top 3.0-liter V6 unit producing 220 horsepower and 204 lb-ft of torque.