Almost 5000 new-generation Mitsubishi Outlander SUVs have been recalled to correct a number of defects with the vehicles' steering and safety systems.

The issues relate to the internal programming of the computers controlling the Outlander's adaptive cruise control (ACC) and forward collision mitigation (FCM) systems, electronic time and alarm control system (ETACS), and electronic power steering (EPS) system.

In the official recall notice published on the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission's website, Mitsubishi describes four potential defects stemming from the computer issues:

- The electronic power steering computer may fail, causing the EPS warning lamp to illuminate and in the worst case this may require an increased effort to turn the steering.

- When driving in a tunnel with the adaptive cruise control 'On', the system may judge the wall of the tunnel as an approaching vehicle and automatically operate the brakes.

- 'ACC failure', 'FCM Failure' and 'ASC failure' may be displayed on the combination meter with a warning alarm, and these systems may stop functioning.

- Internal programming of the ETACS-computer that may result in failure of the turn signals, if the 'answer back' feature is activated when operating the electric tailgate.

A total of 4855 Mitsubishi Outlanders are affected in Australia, with 3633 requiring a replacement of the EPS computer, 809 requiring the ACC and ETACS computers to be reprogrammed, and another 413 requiring both repaires to be conducted.

The recall relates to the recently released third-generation Mitsubishi Outlander that has been on sale in Australia since January. ACC and FCM are part of the $5500 Premium Pack option that is only available in the top-spec Aspire grade.

Mitsubishi Australia says the service campaign was issued from head office, and confirmed there have been no reports of incidents or injuries relating to the defects from local owners.

Affected owners will be contacted by mail encouraging them to arrange a time for an authorised Mitsubishi dealership to complete the inspection and rectification work, which will take roughly one hour and will be conducted free of charge.

Car Advice