Mitsubishi recalls 82,436 vehicles for transmission problems

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is recalling 82,436 vehicles from the 2015 and 2016 model years because a transmission problem could delay acceleration.

The recall covers certain 2015-16 Outlander Sport crossovers, certain 2016 Outlander crossovers and certain 2016 Lancer compact cars, according to documents filed by Mitsubishi with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The affected vehicles have constant velocity transmissions that can “momentarily experience a loss of signal, leading to a delay in acceleration after a stop or after driving at a constant speed and increasing the risk of an accident.

The transmission was produced by Japanese supplier JATCO, according to a NHTSA document. Mitsubishi said it and JATCO began an investigation into the problem in January following a customer complaint.

“As a result of this investigation, JATCO confirmed moments where the range switch lost its signal due to a decrease in contact pressure between two electrical terminals within the switch,” Mitsubishi said in a report filed to NHTSA. “This signal loss caused engine torque reduction, resulting in a feeling of hesitation for drivers."

Mitsubishi said it began the recall on Aug. 15, and affected transmissions will be reprogrammed by dealers for free.