2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Has Rough Idle

Troubleshooting Causes of Rough Idle in Your 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the steps to diagnose a rough idle in a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by using an OBD-II scanner to check for any fault codes, as these can quickly point you to specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the spark plugs for wear or fouling, as faulty plugs can lead to misfires that significantly affect idle quality. Following this, examine the air filter; a clogged filter can restrict airflow, leading to performance issues. It's also crucial to assess the fuel system, including the fuel filter and injectors, to ensure proper fuel delivery. Don't overlook the vacuum hoses, as any leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, exacerbating idle problems. Additionally, cleaning the throttle body can help eliminate carbon buildup that may hinder airflow. Finally, check the idle air control valve to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a malfunction here can directly impact idle speed. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively identify and resolve the underlying causes of a rough idle in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of a rough idle in a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

When dealing with a rough idle in your 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the air filter; a dirty or clogged filter can significantly restrict airflow to the engine, leading to performance issues. Additionally, inspect the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can cause misfiring, which directly affects engine smoothness. Another area to investigate is the vacuum system for any leaks, as these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and result in an unstable idle. Fuel system components, including the fuel filter and injectors, should also be examined, as blockages can hinder fuel delivery and impact engine performance. Furthermore, the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) plays a vital role in regulating the air-fuel mixture, and a malfunction here can lead to rough idling. Lastly, the Idle Air Control Valve (IAC) is essential for maintaining the correct idle speed; if it's faulty, it can cause erratic idling. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and address the root cause of the rough idle, ensuring your Outlander Sport runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle issue in my 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?

Addressing the rough idle issue in your 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for maintaining the overall health of your vehicle. Ignoring this symptom can lead to escalating engine problems, which may result in expensive repairs down the line. Additionally, a rough idle can significantly affect your fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more on gas than necessary, which is an avoidable expense for any DIY car owner. Safety is another critical factor; a rough idle may indicate underlying issues that could compromise your vehicle's reliability, putting you and your passengers at risk. Furthermore, this problem can impact your vehicle's emissions, potentially leading to failures in emissions tests and contributing to environmental concerns. Therefore, it is essential to address the rough idle promptly to ensure your Mitsubishi Outlander Sport continues to perform efficiently and safely on the road.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.