WARNING
- Failure to operate the Mitsubishi Outlander in a safe, controlled, and prudent manner may result in loss of vehicle control, a collision, or a rollover.
Stay alert and drive defensively at all times.
Follow all applicable traffic laws and adjust your driving to road and traffic conditions. Avoid excessive speed, high-speed cornering, and sudden steering inputs, as these actions can cause loss of control. As with any vehicle, losing control of the Mitsubishi Outlander may lead to a collision with another vehicle or object, or may cause the vehicle to roll over, particularly if the vehicle begins to slide sideways. Remain attentive whenever driving and avoid operating the vehicle when fatigued. Never drive under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter medications that may impair alertness or cause drowsiness.
Seat belts are an important part of occupant protection and help reduce the risk of serious injury in both collisions and rollovers. In a rollover crash, an occupant who is not wearing a seat belt is significantly more likely to suffer fatal injuries than an occupant who is properly restrained.
On-pavement and off-road driving precautions
Utility vehicles generally have a higher rollover rate than conventional passenger cars.
Their increased ground clearance is intended to provide greater capability in a variety of paved-road and off-road driving conditions. This design also gives utility vehicles a higher center of gravity than ordinary passenger cars. One benefit of the higher seating position is an improved view of the road ahead, which can help the driver identify and anticipate changing conditions.
However, a utility vehicle is not designed to negotiate corners at the same speeds as a lower passenger car, just as a low-slung sports car is not designed for demanding off-road use. Whenever possible, avoid sharp turns, sudden steering inputs, and abrupt maneuvers, especially at higher speeds. Incorrect operation of the Mitsubishi Outlander, as with other vehicles of this type, can result in loss of control or rollover.
Seat belts help reduce the risk of serious injury during collisions and rollovers. In a rollover crash, an unbelted occupant is significantly more likely to suffer fatal injury than a properly restrained occupant.
Off-road recovery
If the wheels on the right or left side of the vehicle leave the paved road surface, remain calm and maintain control by following the procedure below. This procedure is intended only as a general guide. Always respond according to the actual condition of the Mitsubishi Outlander, the road surface, surrounding traffic, and available space.
1. Remain calm and avoid sudden reactions.
2. Do not apply the brakes abruptly.
3. Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands and maintain as straight a path as possible.
4. When conditions allow, gradually release the accelerator pedal so the vehicle slows smoothly.
5. If the path ahead is clear, continue following the edge of the roadway while reducing speed. Do not attempt to steer sharply back onto the paved surface while the vehicle is still traveling too fast.
6. When it is safe, gradually turn the steering wheel and guide both tires back onto the road surface. Once all tires are back on the pavement, steer smoothly to remain within the proper driving lane.
- If road, traffic, or vehicle conditions make it unsafe to return to the roadway, gradually slow the Mitsubishi Outlander and stop in a safe location away from traffic.
Rapid air pressure loss
A sudden loss of tire pressure, sometimes referred to as a tire blowout, can occur if a tire is punctured or damaged by striking a curb, pothole, or similar road hazard. Driving with significantly under-inflated tires can also contribute to rapid pressure loss.
A rapid reduction in tire pressure can significantly affect vehicle handling and stability, particularly when traveling at highway speeds.
Help reduce the risk of rapid air pressure loss by maintaining the recommended tire inflation pressure and regularly inspecting the tires for visible wear, cuts, damage, or other abnormal conditions.
If a tire suddenly loses air pressure or blows out while driving, use the following procedure to help maintain control of the Mitsubishi Outlander.
This procedure is intended only as a general guide. Actual driving actions should always be adapted to the condition of the vehicle, road surface, surrounding traffic, and available stopping area.
WARNING
- The following actions can increase the risk of losing control if a tire suddenly loses air pressure.
Loss of vehicle control may result in a collision and serious personal injury.
- The vehicle will generally tend to pull or move toward the side with the flat tire.
- Do not apply the brakes suddenly or forcefully.
- Do not release the accelerator pedal abruptly.
- Do not make sudden or aggressive steering movements.
1. Remain calm and do not overreact.
2. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands and try to maintain a straight course.
3. When appropriate, gradually release the accelerator pedal so the vehicle slows in a controlled manner.
4. Carefully steer the Mitsubishi Outlander toward a safe location away from moving traffic, if conditions permit.
5. Apply the brake pedal lightly and progressively to bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.
6. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. Contact a roadside assistance service for tire replacement, or refer to the "Flat tire" section of this Owner's Manual for the appropriate procedure.
