Mitsubishi Outlander: CVT, four-wheel drive and PHEV care

Most Outlanders imported since 2012 have a 2.0 or 2.4 litre petrol engine with a CVT. There's also a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Some petrol versions are four-wheel drive.

Petrol Outlander

• Engine oil and filter every 5,000–10,000 km with the grade in the manual.
• CVT fluid every 40,000 km with Mitsubishi's specified CVT fluid. Don't let a garage use a "universal" fluid.
• A whine or judder from the CVT is a sign to get it checked early.
• Four-wheel-drive versions: check the transfer and rear differential oil at the manual's intervals, and keep the tyres matched.

Outlander PHEV

• The petrol engine still needs regular oil changes, even if it runs rarely.
• Have the hybrid system and its cooling checked at a garage that knows PHEVs.
• Charging at home with a proper socket and cable is safer than an extension lead.

All Outlanders

• Air and cabin filters every 20,000 km.
• Brake fluid every 2 years.
• Third-row seats: if you carry seven regularly, use the full-load tyre pressures.