2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Pricing and Specs

The used Captiva does appear to be great value, but their shaky reputation for reliability would lead me to consider other options. The Territory would be a better bet, but they are known to have electrical and front suspension issues in the long-term.  If you're after an SUV, a seven-seat 2006-12 Mitsubishi Outlander is smart buying at the moment, but if you're just after the seven seats, I highly recommend taking a look at a 2008-13 Kia Rondo. These represent excellent value at the moment. Hope that helps, and keep us posted with your progress.

The three cars you name all have merit, none has any major issue to be concerned about and all fit your needs, but you will have to shop around to find them within your age and budget limits.

We haven't heard of anyone else having this problem, and it would seem the dealer hasn't either, as he is apparently probing around in the dark in the hope of finding the cause. At this stage I would suggest it's better to work with the dealer in trying to find the cause of the problem and fix it than it is to dig your heels in and probably achieve except get frustrated.