Mitsubishi Challenger 2011 Problems

Cars are either being built worse -- or companies are getting better at detecting faults.a range of models made over the last 10 years replacing potentially deadly Takata airbags in 1.3 million cars in Australia. a second, airbag-related recall for the Priusreplacing potentially deadly Takata airbags in 1.3 million cars in Australia

The safety recall is to fix a fault that could see the powered seats' reclining lever stick in the operating position after use, allowing current to continue to flow to the seat motor. Mitsubishi says there is a risk the motor, seat cushion and surrounding parts could melt or burn."There have been two incidents recorded in Australia, with no injuries," Mitsubishi spokesperson Shayna Welsh says."There are 3,647 vehicles affected in Australia.  Customers need to take their vehicle to a dealership to be inspected, which should take around 20 mins, however, if the seat adjuster assembly needs to be replaced, this action will take up to two and a half hours."The recalled vehicles are the 2007-2013 Triton 4WD Double Cab and 2010-2013 Challenger 4WD models fitted with power front driver's and/or passenger's seat.Mitsubishi says that as a precaution until the owners have their vehicles inspected, they should make sure the reclining lever always returns to the central position after they have used it -- and whenever they leave the vehicle.All owners of affected vehicles have been contacted by mail sent to their last known address, and are asked to contact their nearest Mitsubishi service dealer to have their vehicle inspected and the seat assembly replaced if needed.Owners who believe their vehicle is in the affected range and who have not received a letter by today, September 27 -- or seek more information -- should call Mitsubishi on 1300 13 12 11 and select option 4, then select option 2.

Mitsubishi has issued a safety recall on a total of 20,405 vehicles from the 2011-2012 Triton and Challenger ranges. The recall is to fix a defective weld on the front suspension lower control arms that could fail -- making the vehicle become unstable and pull to the left or right while driving.The recall affects both 2WD and 4WD versions of the models, with 17540 Tritons and 2865 Challengers impacted in Australia.Mitsubishi says if the weld fails, the driver will notice their vehicle pulling off-centre -- which poses a safety concern for both the vehicle and other traffic. Owners are advised to drive conservatively to reduce shock load on the suspension until the defect is fixed.All owners have been mailed the recall notice at their last known address, and should contact their nearest Mitsubishi service centre to have the problem rectified. They can also call 1300 13 12 11, select option 2 and enter their post code to be directed to the nearest Dealer.Owners who have not received a letter by November 22 but believe their vehicle affected by the recall -- or who want further information -- should call 1300 13 12 11, select option 4, then select option 2.  

It took a pick-up and applied a four-door wagon body to create an off-road capable SUV, many years before the concept became as common as it is now (Fortuner, Everest, MU-X, and more)

Mitsubishi's Challenger off-roader arrived on the market as buyers were shifting more and more towards SUVs without genuine off-road credentials.NEWThe attractively styled mid-sized 4WD wagon was a genuine off-roader built on the Triton chassis and using the Triton turbo-diesel engine and Super Select full-time/part-time 4WD system, and a rear diff lock. There were five models in two trim levels, the LS and XLS, offering the choice of five and seven seats.The Challenger's cabin is a pleasant and comfortable place to reside, although getting in required quite a step up and there was no grab handles to help you. Once aboard, however, you found yourself in comfortable and supportive seats, leather trimmed on the XLS, and faced by a nicely laid-out dash with everything you could need within easy reach and placed where you might expect them to be.Generally, there's ample room for adults in all three seating rows, although the unlucky one that cops the middle of the second row would be cramped and those who have to sit in the third row would only want to stay there for a relatively short trip. The 2.5-litre turbo-diesel does the job comfortably, if a little noisily. It's got plenty of mid-range punch for easy driving and good towing.There was a choice of manual and auto transmissions with gearing that has the engine working at its peak most of the time. On the highway the auto transmission tends to hunt in and out of overdrive on anything but flat roads. Off-road the Challenger is a competent operator, with decent ground clearance, good front and rear angles, as well as adequate protection underneath, a rear diff lock and front traction control.On the black top the Challenger holds its own with most of its rivals. It cruises comfortably, rides well and handles with aplomb for a big traditional off-road wagon. It wasn't lacking in equipment either. Standard features on both models included climate-control air-conditioning, CD player, six speakers, leather steering wheel, cruise. On top of that the XLS range-topper got leather trim, powered driver's seat, wood trim, premium sound, reversing camera, rear park sensors, fog lights and headlight washers.NOWThe Challenger is a solid vehicle with decent build quality and mechanics tell us that it is giving little trouble in the field. There are no serious flaws from the factory, so focus on issues that have resulted from its use. In particular pay close attention to the exterior and underbody for signs of off-road use.Mitsubishi was keen to point out that the Challenger would cope with being beaten around the bush, and some owners may well have taken them up on the challenge. Look for bent fittings and appendages underneath, exhaust hangers, suspension mountings etc. Also look for anything that might indicate water entry into vitals located underneath.Look for scratches, dents and bumps on exterior panels from having bounced off the scenery. Continue shopping should you suspect a car has been used offroad. Check for a service record showing oil changes and regular maintenance, as with all cars servicing is vital to a long life. There was a recall in 2011 to check the floor mats as some were fitted with mats that could affect the operation of the accelerator.SMITHY SAYSGood choice for those who want a real off-roader that isn't out of its comfort zone in town.Mitsubishi Challenger - 2009-2011Price new: $44,490 to $58,890Engine: 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, 131 kW/350 Nm (auto), 131 kW/400 Nm (man)Transmission: 5-speed man, 5-speed auto, 4WDEconomy: 8.3 L/100 km (man), 9.8 L/100 km (auto)Body: 4-door wagonVariants: LS, XLSSafety: 4-star ANCAP

When launched in 1998, the Mitsubishi Challenger was virtually a Mitsubishi Triton pickup with a station wagon body. Over the years it has became more slightly more sophisticated but still shares some components with the Triton. Which is no bad thing as the Triton is a tough ute with a good reputation in Australia.