Owners of 2007-08 Outlander trucks may complain of a clicking sound from the front of the SUV while it's being driven at slow speeds or while turning.
According to Mitsubishi, the noise is most noticeable in temperatures below freezing, decreases in intensity as the vehicle is driven or the ambient temperature rises, and is due to the grease formulation used in the front CV joints. Installing an improved grease and new CV joint boots from two repair kits should put the clicking issue to rest.
For 2WD trucks, order one repair kit, Part No. 3817A157, for each axle. Each kit includes a small tub of the new grease for the outer joint, a larger tub for the inner joint, plus two boots. For 4WD trucks, order the same kit above for the left-side axle.
For the right side of the truck, however, you'll have to order a kit that includes a complete new axle plus one tub of revised grease, Part No. 3817A158.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].