The Mitsubishi Outlander is a popular choice among plug-in hybrid enthusiasts around the world. However, one particular Outlander had been left abandoned in a parking lot for over six months due to a high-voltage system error. The gas engine refused to start, leaving the car stranded until it was finally pushed into a workshop for repairs.
Plug-in hybrids like the Outlander are complex machines, essentially combining a gas engine with a high-voltage battery and an electric motor. This complexity can lead to more reliability issues compared to regular gas cars or fully electric vehicles, as noted by Consumer Reports. When something goes wrong with a plug-in hybrid, the repair costs can quickly add up.
In the case of the UK-registered Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the issue seemed daunting at first. After sitting idle for months, a thorough diagnosis revealed errors related to the current sensor and leak detection sensor, both housed within the high-voltage battery pack. The repair shop, OGS & Mechanics, faced the challenging task of locating and addressing the root cause of the problem.
Fortunately, a methodical approach and some old-school troubleshooting techniques paid off. By studying a wiring diagram, the mechanic identified that both sensors were powered by a single source connected to a 7.5-amp fuse under the hood. A quick and inexpensive fix involved replacing the blown fuse with a new one, restoring the car’s functionality.
After the fuse replacement, the Outlander PHEV was back on the road, able to charge from a level 1 charger once again. While the exact reason for the blown fuse remained unknown, the important lesson here is that complex electrified vehicles like plug-in hybrids can be repaired without breaking the bank. This success story serves as a reminder that with the right expertise and approach, even the most challenging car issues can be resolved efficiently and affordably.