Braking precautions
The brake system uses two separate hydraulic circuits. If one circuit develops a malfunction, braking capability remains available at two wheels, although overall braking performance may be reduced.
Brake pedal
Excessive or prolonged use of the brakes can cause brake fade, resulting in weaker braking response and accelerated wear of the brake pads.
When descending a long or steep hill, reduce vehicle speed and use engine braking by selecting a lower gear instead of relying continuously on the brake pedal.
WARNING
- Do not place objects near the brake pedal or allow a floor mat to move underneath it. Any obstruction could prevent the brake pedal from traveling through its full range when maximum braking is required in an emergency. Make sure the brake pedal can always move freely and confirm that the floor mat is securely retained in its proper position.
Vacuum assisted brakes
The brake booster uses engine vacuum to reduce the effort required when pressing the brake pedal. If the engine stops, the Mitsubishi Outlander can still be brought to a stop by depressing the brake pedal, but substantially greater pedal force will be required and the stopping distance will increase.
Using the brakes
Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. Continuous light brake application can overheat the braking system, accelerate brake pad wear, and reduce fuel economy.
To reduce brake wear and help prevent overheating, slow the vehicle and select a lower gear before descending a long or steep grade. Overheated brakes can lose effectiveness, increase stopping distance, and contribute to loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
- When driving on a slippery surface, use particular care when braking, accelerating, or downshifting. Sudden braking or acceleration can cause the wheels to lose traction or skid and may result in an accident.
- If the engine is not running or is switched off while driving, brake power assistance will no longer operate. The brakes will still function, but much greater pedal effort will be required to slow or stop the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Wet brakes
After the vehicle is washed or driven through water, moisture may reduce brake effectiveness. Braking distance can become longer, and the Mitsubishi Outlander may pull toward one side when the brakes are applied.
To dry the brakes, drive at a safe speed and apply the brake pedal lightly several times to generate heat until normal braking performance returns. Do not drive at high speed until you have confirmed that the brakes are functioning normally.
Parking brake break-in
The parking brake shoes should be properly broken in whenever parking brake effectiveness has decreased or after the parking brake shoes and/or drums/rotors have been replaced. This procedure helps restore or establish the intended parking brake performance.
The required break-in procedure is described in the vehicle service manual. It is recommended that you have this work performed by an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer.
