2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander 3.0L V6 Flex Pipe Guide
Reviewed 2026-10-03. Checked against the sources listed below. This is general information, not a substitute for a mechanic's inspection.
Quick answer
On the 2007-2020 Mitsubishi Outlander 3.0L V6, the front flex pipe is the braided section that lets the engine rock on its mounts without cracking the exhaust. When the braid frays or the inner liner wears through, you get a loud rumble on acceleration, a puffing or hissing sound near the front, and sometimes a check engine light. The AFECO 472230 fits the 3.0L V6 only, front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Exact fit
| Years | Make | Model | Engine | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2020 | Mitsubishi | Outlander | 3.0L V6 | Front-wheel and all-wheel drive |
This flex pipe covers a long run of years, but only with the 3.0L V6. Confirm Displacement (L): 3.0 in the free NHTSA VIN decoder.
Why the flex pipe takes a beating
The Outlander's V6 sits sideways in the engine bay, so it rocks forward and back every time you accelerate, brake or shift. The flex pipe absorbs that movement. Over the years, that constant flexing, plus heat and road salt trapped in the braid, wears it out. A worn engine mount makes it worse, because the engine moves further than it should.
Signs it is leaking
- Loud rumble or roar when accelerating, quieter at steady speed
- Puffing, ticking or hissing near the front of the vehicle
- Black soot on or around the braided section
- Exhaust smell, especially when stopped
- A check engine light: a leak before an oxygen sensor can upset the fuel and catalyst readings
Is there a recall?
We checked NHTSA's recall database for the 2007-2020 Outlander. None of the safety recalls listed involve the exhaust system. One 2007-2013 recall (14V366000) mentions a "converter", but it concerns the automatic transmission's converter housing and a power steering tube. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Before you buy
- Find the leak. With the engine cold and off, look for soot and frayed braid. A shop can confirm it with a smoke test.
- Check the engine mounts. If a mount is worn, replace it too, or the new flex pipe will wear out early.
- Look at the flanges and gaskets at both ends. A leaking gasket can sound like a bad flex pipe.
Fitting notes
The AFECO 472230 is a direct-fit part that bolts in at the factory flanges and includes hardware. Do not twist or stretch the braided section during fitting, and use new gaskets at both ends.
