IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GG)

The 2014 launch of the Outlander PHEV was a game-changer. It was the world's first plug-in hybrid SUV and offered immense tax benefits for company car drivers in the UK, making it an overnight sensation.

What changed for 2014

  • •Debut of the Outlander PHEV, revolutionizing the UK company car market.
  • •Features a 2.0-litre petrol engine combined with twin electric motors.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Premature wear on brake discs, as regenerative braking means the physical brakes are used less often and can corrode.
  • !Suspension wear, particularly rear bushes due to the heavy battery pack.
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Battery Degradation & "BMU Reset" Masking

SeriousEngine

The traction battery naturally loses capacity over time. A major concern is the "BMU Reset" where a technician or seller resets the Battery Management Unit, forcing it to report 100% health (State of Health). This "masks" the actual degradation until the car relearns the true capacity over several weeks.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£7,000 (Replacement)
Warning Signs:

Suddenly dropping range after a few weeks of ownership, Inconsistent EV range, Petrol engine starting even when battery shows charge

What to Inspect:
  • Use "PHEV Watchdog" and an OBDII dongle to check actual State of Health (SoH)
  • Check for a suspiciously high health percentage on high-mileage cars
  • Ask for a history of any BMU resets
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

AC Compressor Failure (Wrong Oil)

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The electric compressor requires specialized POE oil. Using standard PAG oil during a regas will destroy the internal motor.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£3,000
Warning Signs:

AC not cooling, Loud grinding noise when AC is on, EV system fault light

What to Inspect:
  • Verify that any AC service used POE oil specifically
  • Check AC operation in both EV and Petrol modes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electric Heater Failure

ModerateInterior & Trim

The electric water heater (used when the engine is off) frequently fails. A small inline gauze filter can also block, preventing circulation.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,000
Warning Signs:

No cabin heat when driving in EV mode, Heat only available when petrol engine is running

What to Inspect:
  • Test the heater while the car is in EV mode and parked
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Differential Mount Thud

MinorSuspension & Chassis

The rubber in the rear differential center mount perishes, leading to a "thud" or "clonk" when pulling away.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300
Warning Signs:

Thud from the rear when moving from a standstill, Clunk when releasing the brake

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear diff mount bushing for cracks or play
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GG)

  • Check the 'State of Health' (SOH) of the drive battery using an OBD2 scanner; degradation reduces the crucial electric-only range.
  • Ensure the vehicle charges correctly on both a home AC charger and a public CHAdeMO DC rapid charger.
2015–2018
Check a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GG) by Registration