Mitsubishi Montero problems
The Mitsubishi Pajero (三菱・パジェロ, Japanese: ; English: /pəˈhɛroʊ/; Spanish: ) is a full-size SUV (sport utility vehicle) manufactured and marketed globally by Mitsubishi over four generations — introduced in 1981 and discontinued in 2021.
The Pajero nameplate derives from Leopardus pajeros, the Pampas cat. Mitsubishi marketed the SUV as the Montero in North America, Spain, and Latin America (except for Brazil and Jamaica) due to the term "pajero" being derogatory (meaning "wanker") in Spanish. In the United Kingdom, it was known as the Shogun (将軍), named after the Japanese word for "General." The model was discontinued in North America in 2006.
The Pajero, Montero, and Shogun names were used on other, mechanically unrelated models, such as the Pajero Mini kei car, the Pajero Junior and Pajero iO/Pinin mini SUVs, and the Triton-based Pajero/Montero/Shogun Sport mid-size SUVs. The Pajero is one of four models by Mitsubishi (the others being the Triton, Pajero Sport and the Pajero iO) that share Mitsubishi's heavy-duty, off-road-oriented Super-Select four-wheel-drive system as opposed to their light-duty Mitsubishi S-AWC all-wheel-drive system.
The Pajero has generated more than 3.3 million sales in its 40-year run. The name lives with the smaller Pajero Sport, which is based on the Mitsubishi Triton/L200/Strada pickup. Despite the similarity in name, the Pajero Sport shares none of the original Pajero's underpinnings and is smaller in overall size.
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Mitsubishi Montero model years
Common Mitsubishi Montero problems
The Mitsubishi Montero, a popular midsize SUV, is known for its exterior design and interior space. However, like any vehicle, it can encounter issues over time. Here are some common problems with the Mitsubishi Montero, based on complaints from owners:
- Gunk in the intake: Modern diesel SUVs like the Montero Sport can experience gunk build-up in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and intake. This can result in acceleration problems and a check engine light if left unaddressed. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the EGR valve and intake manifold can help prevent this issue.
- Loose valve clearances: The Montero's turbodiesel mill uses a shim-over-bucket valve adjuster, which can loosen over time. This can lead to incorrect valve clearance, affecting engine performance and potentially causing damage to the engine's internals. Regular inspections and adjustments of the valve clearances can help prevent this issue.
- Four-wheel drive actuator issues: The four-wheel drive system in the Montero is controlled mostly by vacuum, and the actuator can fail over time. This can result in flashing four-wheel drive lights and issues with shifting the transfer case. Replacing the actuator with an OEM replacement can help resolve this issue.
- O2 sensor problems: The Montero has several O2 sensors throughout the vehicle, with the ones monitoring the catalytic converters being particularly prone to failure. This can result in catalytic converter failure and the need for replacement, which can be expensive. Regular inspections and replacement of worn-out O2 sensors can help prevent this issue.
- Valve stem seal issues: The Montero's valve stem seals can wear out and cause the engine to burn oil. Replacing these seals can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, but it is necessary to prevent excessive oil consumption.
- Sudden unintended acceleration (SUA): There have been reports of sudden unintended acceleration in Montero Sport models, particularly in the Philippines. While Mitsubishi has asserted that the vehicles are safe to use, concerns regarding the safety of the car model have been raised. If you experience this issue, it is important to have your vehicle inspected and to follow any recalls or safety advisories issued by the manufacturer.
Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of your Mitsubishi Montero.
What is the common problem of Mitsubishi?
1) Transmission Issues
Mitsubishi transmission issues have been a cause of concern for many owners, leading to frustrations and potentially costly repairs. Transmission slipping, harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure.
How long does a Mitsubishi Montero last?
The Mitsubishi Montero has an average lifespan of 166,420 miles or about 9 years. The Montero's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.
How many miles can you put on a Mitsubishi Montero?
Find a rust-free and well-maintained example and you can drive it 300,000 miles.
What year did Mitsubishi stop making the Montero?
2006
Generally speaking, however, the first-generation Montero spanned from 1981–91, the second-gen model ran from 1991–99, and the third-generation Montero, the last one sold in the U.S., ran from 1999–2006.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mitsubishi Montero years
We have researched Mitsubishi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mitsubishi Montero cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mitsubishi Montero model years:
- Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Mitsubishi Montero 1995
- Mitsubishi Montero 1997
- Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Mitsubishi Montero 2000
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mitsubishi Montero model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mitsubishi Montero years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mitsubishi Montero car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mitsubishi Montero , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mitsubishi Montero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Montero model years
A total of 69 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Montero model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Montero model years
There were a total of 84 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Montero model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 707 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mitsubishi Montero . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mitsubishi Montero vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-16
- VIN: JA4MW51R62J
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My horn goes off when I turn the steering wheel or hit bumps when driving and when parked and turned off, if its close to freezing it will go off constantly early in the morning before dawn and I have to disconnect the battery or pull the fuse for the horn under the hood fuse panel to stop it. I can't drive it with a horn fuse in and have tried replacing the steering wheel airbag and it still has the same problem. My neighbor had the same issue on his 04 Jeep and his car was fixed with an airbag actuator recall. No warning lights ever come on. Only my mechanic has looked at the vehicle.
Mitsubishi Montero 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-21
- VIN: JA4MR51R4YJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Awhile back my horn stopped working as if it was stuck down. I found out this was because of a problem with this cars airbag breaking down that causes this - and that there is a recall because these airbags are dangerous if they go off. I received a letter at one point from Mitsubishi about this. I filled out a form a long time ago when I got that, I also emailed them before, I also have tried calling them a few times. They never get back to me. There is no Mitsubishi dealership in my town so I cannot take the car there unannounced without driving 2 hours to another town. I do not want to do this if the airbags are unsafe, so the car has been sitting for a long time because of this issue. I want it resolved. I do not care if Mitsubishi or a mechanic or whoever does it, I just need it done so I do not get killed by my airbag, I don't want to pay for it since it is covered by recall. Please let me know how to resolve this. Thank you.
Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-18
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-04
- VIN: JA4MT31R52J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I checked and there's several recalls on the vehicle and I purchase it last year from the dealership and I never received anything about the recalls and now my vehicle doesn't want to start it lock me out.
Mitsubishi Montero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-31
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-23
- VIN: JA4MW51S54J
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Limited: Hydraulic Brake Booster is malfunctioning, making a ("gobble-gobble", squirrel-like chirping sound) almost every time the brake pedal is pressed. Hwy driving, without the use of brakes, the frequent "chirping" sounds still occur. Under medium to heavy braking, the vehicle shudders and shakes. This specific sound is made in all gear selections and even when the car's battery is on/engine off. Upon inspection of the hydraulic brake booster under the hood, the unit shakes when the chirp sound is made. Duration of the sound lasts around one second and it happens frequently (5-10 times per minute).
Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-06
- VIN: Ja4mw51r42j
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I was driving down the highway, without any prior indication the brake light, and break alarm came on and my breaks went out. All at the same.
Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-01
- VIN: ja4mw31r02j
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car has 2 recalls and my local Mitsubishi dealer refused to fix the recalls.
Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-03
- VIN: JA4LS41R12J
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I have a 2002 Mitsibishi Montero Sport.I was driving home from work, and all the sudden i couldn't steer. I had no steering, Lost power to vehicle and battery light came on. Wasnt sure what happened, looked under the hood and noticed belts were off. Went and got new ones and noticed when trying to put the mew belts on the bolt on the crankshaft pulley was loose and the pin was broken making that pulley loose.I was lucky that I decided to take a street with less traffic otherwise I could of gotten into an accident.This should definitely be a RECALL.
Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-06
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-06
- VIN: JA4MR51H1WJ
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AT THE MOMENT THE ONLY SITUATION THAT I HAVE HAD WITH THE MITSUBISHI AIRBAG RECALL IS THAT WHEN I CALL THE CUSTOMER RELATIONS DEPARTMENT THEY SAY THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS, THAT SUPPOSEDLY THE MITSUBISHI COMPANY HAS NOT YET SENT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS.....I HAVE TO CALL WITHIN 2 MONTHS TO SEE IF THE PARTS HAVE ARRIVED AT THE REPAIR SHOPS.
Mitsubishi Montero 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-30
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-30
- VIN: JA4MR31H7XJ
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IN THE DEALER , I MAKES THE APPOINTMEMT TO 7AM, AND THE DEALER NIMAY MITSUBISHI, AVE. KENNEDY 1011 SAN JUAN, PR NO WORK WITH THE CAR AT THE 200PM. NO WORK WITH THE HOURS APPOINMENT. THE WORK IS HORRIBLE
Mitsubishi Montero 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-10
- VIN: JA4MR51RXXJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: IT HAS BEEN ALMOST A YEAR SINCE THIS RECALL WAS ISSUED AND STILL THERE IS NO REMEDY. I FEEL THAT THIS IS VERY UNREASONABLE CONSIDERING THE DEFECTIVE AIRBAG COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR EVEN DEATH AS STATED IN THE RECALL NOTICE. PLEASE PURSUE THIS AND HELP US COME TO A SOLUTION FOR THIS AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE.
Mitsubishi Montero 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-30
- Date Complaint: 2020-11-30
- VIN: JA4MR51H2XJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WENT TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER AND THEY SAID THERE'S NO PART TO DO OR FIX THE RECALL
Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-05
- VIN: JA4MR51R9WJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MITSUBISHI MONTERO. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V035000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-22
- VIN: JA4MR31H0WJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SOUTHSIDE MITSUBISHI IN ORLANDO AND BECAUSE A MECHANIC NAMED BOB WHO'S BEEN THERE FOR OVER 20 YEARS SAYS IT'S THE ORIGINAL BUT IT'S NOT THE ORIGINAL BOLT THEY DON'T WANT TO HONOR THE RECALL I ARGUED WITH THEM MULTIPLE TIMES.. THE ORIGINAL BOLT IS ME203072, AND THE MONTERO HAS THE SAME BOLT AS THE PAJERO . THIS VEHICLE WITH VIN [XXX] HAD THE BOLT SNAP OFF..IF IT WAS ALREADY FIXED LIKE SOUTHSIDE MITSUBISHI SAID IT SHOULDN'T HAVE SNAPPED. THEY REPEATEDLY DO NOT WANT TO GIVE A STRAIGHT ANSWER AND KEEP TRANSFERRING THE PHONE AROUND. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Mitsubishi Montero 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-28
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-31
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA4MR51HXXJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HER MOTHER, THE DRIVER OF A 1999 MITSUBISHI MONTERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER CRASHED INTO A MOUNTAIN AT A UNKNOWN SPEED AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER PASSED AWAY UPON IMPACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THE POLICE DEEMED THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED SHE RECEIVED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V035000 (AIR BAGS) 3 YEARS AFTER THE FAILURE WAS EXPERIENCED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. *DT*JB*DT*JB
Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-26
- VIN: JA4MR51R8WJ
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD BEEN EXPERIENCING THE SMELL OF GASOLINE INSIDE THE CAR, STRONGER WHEN I OPEN THE BACK REAR LUGGAGE AREA AND REAR OF MONTERO (CLOSEST TO THE GAS FUEL TANK UNDERNEATH). I DO NOT SEE ANY ACTIVE LEAK ON THE FLOOR. MY CAR HAS NO DAMAGE, SUCH AS BEING REAR ENDED OR BUMPER DAMAGE AT ALL. THE TANK MAY BE DEFECTIVE OR VAPORIZING INTO INTERIOR OF CAR.
Latest 5 recalls Mitsubishi Montero
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 46 recalls for different components of the Mitsubishi Montero.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mitsubishi Montero 1998
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2021. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-001.
- Model: Mitsubishi Montero 2000
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2021. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-001.
- Model: Mitsubishi Montero 1999
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2021. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-20-001.
- Model: Mitsubishi Montero 2002
- Report Received Date: 2004-09-01
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN WILL MAIL A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION LETTER CONTAINING A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION AND A GRAPHIC OF THE BI-LINGUAL DASHBOARD AIR BAG WARNING LABEL. IN ADDITION, ALL CURRENT 2000-2004 NATIVA OWNERS WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG ALERT LABELS FOR THE SUN VISORS. THIS RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH OR APRIL 2005. THE NOTIFICATION TO THE NATIVA OWNERS IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL OR MAY 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
- Model: Mitsubishi Montero 2000
- Report Received Date: 2004-09-01
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN WILL MAIL A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION LETTER CONTAINING A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION AND A GRAPHIC OF THE BI-LINGUAL DASHBOARD AIR BAG WARNING LABEL. IN ADDITION, ALL CURRENT 2000-2004 NATIVA OWNERS WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG ALERT LABELS FOR THE SUN VISORS. THIS RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH OR APRIL 2005. THE NOTIFICATION TO THE NATIVA OWNERS IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL OR MAY 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
Latest negative Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
Latest positive Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2003
I really enjoyed the build quality and interior when I first purchased the vehicle. However, I experienced some regret during the first year due to the 'road wildness' issue. After reading some comments online, I discovered that I needed to change the 'OEM' tires. I switched to Michelin LTS and it made a huge difference. Now, I absolutely love everything about this vehicle. With 97,000 miles on it, I have not had any major problems. It is agile, rock solid, and extremely comfortable both inside and out, with the best visibility. Even though my company would buy me anything I want, I have chosen to stick with this vehicle because there is nothing else out there that interests me.
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Vehicle year: 2002
Excellent! I'm so glad to hear that your family is extremely happy with this truck. We shopped around and couldn't find any other that truly compares. It's extremely sturdy and very attractive.
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Vehicle year: 1999
Congratulations on owning your vehicle for over 3 years! It's great to hear that you've put over 107,000 miles on it and plan to get at least 100,000 more. The only major repair you've had to make was replacing the timing belt, which is part of the scheduled maintenance. I love the seating for seven and how it retains the truck-like styling. It's important to note that this vehicle is designed for off-road use and may not be the best choice for those who prioritize a smooth ride. However, if you're looking for a reliable truck that performs well in deep snow (2.5'), rain, and mud, this is the perfect choice. While it may lack some horsepower, it more than makes up for it in its rugged performance. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 1999
Great value! It just keeps on running!
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Vehicle year: 2000
I really love this car! I bought it brand new back in 1997 and I'm so glad it has lasted this long. It has been very reliable with only minor repairs needed, such as brake and tire services, which are typical for midsize trucks. Living in Southern California, I mainly drive around town and on the freeway, but I also take it off-road in the mountains, especially during heavy rains. My mechanic recently informed me that, at 100,000 miles, I've only used up half of the engine, so I'm looking forward to another happy 12 years!
Are you having problems with your Mitsubishi Montero?
Leo Terry 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2000
I purchased this 1997 Montero LS (full-size) two years ago after conducting extensive research on finding a good SUV under $5K. Despite not having heard of this SUV before, I was thoroughly impressed with it, especially considering that it is a 16-year-old vehicle. I had specific requirements in mind and knew that I had to find a Montero under $5K, provided that the timing belt had been recently replaced. Luckily, I found one locally with under 150,000 miles (141,236 to be exact). I had quite a bit of maintenance work done, including the replacement of the timing belt and water pump, followed by the replacement of all fluids and filters within six months. This is my third car and I only drive it about 5,000 miles annually. Although I have put some work into this Montero, it is a rugged and durable SUV with a truck-like feel.
Darien Murphy 2025-03-17
Vehicle year: 2000
Solid vehicle. No highs and no lows. It tends to eat brakes due to its weight, and the brakes always seem to feel soft. The OEM tires are a joke; the Yokohamas make the Montero seem even more top-heavy because they don't support the vehicle in turns very well. I upgraded to Goodyear Forteras, and it made quite a bit of difference.
Keeley Hoppe 2025-03-09
Vehicle year: 1999
I purchased this 1997 Montero LS (full-size) two years ago after conducting extensive research on finding a good SUV under $5K. Despite not having heard of this SUV before, I was thoroughly impressed with it, especially considering that it is a 16-year-old vehicle. I had specific requirements in mind and knew that I had to find a Montero under $5K, provided that the timing belt had been recently replaced. Luckily, I found one locally with under 150,000 miles (141,236 to be exact). I had quite a bit of maintenance work done, including the replacement of the timing belt and water pump, followed by the replacement of all fluids and filters within six months. This is my third car and I only drive it about 5,000 miles annually. Although I have put some work into this Montero, it is a rugged and durable SUV with a truck-like feel.
Laron Rolfson 2025-02-14
Vehicle year: 1991
We bought the car 10 years ago when it had only 3,000 miles on it. Overall, our experience has been positive. We did have a few issues, such as the steering box failing at 60,000 miles, which cost us $800. The dealer said it was not unusual. The original exhaust lasted an impressive 9.5 years, but when it finally needed to be replaced, it cost us $900 at the dealer. We also had a couple of power window controls fail in year 5, which cost $125 each for parts. In year 1, we experienced an issue with the cruise control turning off when the directionals were used, but the dealer was unable to find the problem. The air conditioning failed in year 6, which cost us $900 to repair with no guarantee it would be fixed (dealer price). Additionally, the FM radio and cassette failed in year 6, and the replacement only lasted 2 years.
Lexus Hoeger 2025-01-19
Vehicle year: 1998
This is a fantastic truck! I drive it to school every day and back, go hunting and off-roading in it, and it holds up incredibly well. The locking differentials really add to its 4-wheel drive power. The interior is nice, and the seats are extremely modular. In my opinion, this truck is better without the optional jump seats. The engine is very capable and runs very quietly.