Mitsubishi Montero sport problems

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The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is a mid-size SUV produced by the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors using the Pajero nameplate since 1996 that has spanned over three generations and based on the Triton pickup truck. Mitsubishi has formerly used the Mitsubishi Challenger (Japanese: 三菱・チャレンジャー, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Charenjā) name in Japan and some international markets, but since the third generation, the Pajero Sport/Montero Sport/Shogun Sport was the name used instead.

First generation (K80/K90/PA/PA II; 1996)

For the SUV sold alongside the first generation Montero Sport in Latin American markets, see Mitsubishi Montero Outlander.

Production began in Japan in 1996, and was available for most export markets by 1997, where it was variously known as the Challenger, Pajero Sport in Europe, Montero Sport in North America, South America, Spain and the Philippines, Nativa in parts of Latin America, the Caribbean and the Middle East, Shogun Sport in the United Kingdom, and Strada G-Wagon in Thailand. Based on the Strada pickup truck of the same vintage, sharing many components and some body panels (i.e. front doors), the first-generation Pajero Sport was also built on the second-generation Pajero wheelbase, and served as a smaller model to the larger Pajero.

Like the Pajero, it featured independent front suspension with torsion bars and a live rear axle. In addition to numerous facelifts over the years, there was a major suspension change from rear leaf to coil springs in late 2000. As its popularity increased, local assembly for foreign markets was introduced in China in 2003, and Brazil in 2006. Sales were discontinued in Japan in 2003. In the United States, where it was superseded by the Endeavor, sales ended in 2004. In Canada the Montero Sport continued to be sold alongside the Endeavor until 2008. Sales in central and western Europe ended in 2008, with the introduction of the second generation Pajero/Montero Sport. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.

The 3-litre V6 is the most commonly used engine; it produces 175 hp (130 kW; 177 PS) at 5,000 rpm. The North American market received petrol V6 engines during all years of production while a petrol 2.4-litre engine was offered on base models from 1997 through 1999 in the United States and for additional years in Canada. Markets outside of North America also had a variety of turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines to choose between.

photo of Mitsubishi Montero sport car production

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Mitsubishi Montero sport model years

mitsubishi montero sport 2009 photo
Montero sport 2009
Mitsubishi

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 2004 photo
Montero sport 2004
Mitsubishi

5

1

15

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 2003 photo
Montero sport 2003
Mitsubishi

83

0

35

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 2002 photo
Montero sport 2002
Mitsubishi

61

0

29

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 2001 photo
Montero sport 2001
Mitsubishi

245

1

36

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 2000 photo
Montero sport 2000
Mitsubishi

98

1

33

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 1999 photo
Montero sport 1999
Mitsubishi

40

3

30

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 1998 photo
Montero sport 1998
Mitsubishi

35

1

23

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
mitsubishi montero sport 1997 photo
Montero sport 1997
Mitsubishi

0

1

6

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Mitsubishi Montero sport problems

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a popular midsize SUV known for its exterior design, interior space, and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it can encounter issues over time. Here are some common problems reported by Montero Sport owners:

  • Gunk build-up in the intake manifold and EGR valve: As a modern diesel SUV, the Montero Sport can experience gunk build-up in its exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and intake manifold due to the oily soot produced by burning exhaust gasses. This can result in a check engine light, acceleration problems, and trouble reaching peak power. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the EGR valve and intake manifold can help prevent this issue.
  • Loose valve clearances: The Montero Sport's 4N15 turbodiesel mill uses a shim-over-bucket valve adjuster to set the height of the engine's valve springs. Over time, these valve shims can loosen, causing the valve clearance to change and potentially leading to engine performance issues. Regular inspections and adjustments of the valve clearances can help maintain optimal engine performance.
  • Sudden unintended acceleration (SUA): Several incidents of SUA involving the Montero Sport have been reported in the Philippines, raising concerns about the vehicle's safety.
  • Loose or broken crankshaft pulley bolt: This issue is one of the most common problems reported by Montero Sport owners, and it can cause the engine to stall or the serpentine belt to break. The crankshaft pulley bolt may loosen or break due to wear and tear or improper installation, and it is important to have it inspected and replaced if necessary to prevent further damage to the engine.
  • Factory defects: Some Montero Sport owners have reported factory defects, such as a nonresponsive touchscreen monitor and corroded exhaust systems. These issues can affect the overall driving experience and may require immediate attention from the manufacturer or dealership.

In general, the Montero Sport is a reliable and popular midsize SUV, but it is important for owners to be aware of potential issues and to maintain their vehicles regularly to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Mitsubishi Montero sport

What is the problem of Montero Sport?

Its popular Montero Sport SUV is being investigated by the government and scrutinized by the public. There are claims that unintended acceleration problems are causing crashes, allegations that the company has denied.

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.

Is Montero Sport durable?

It has a robust build quality and is a very reliable vehicle. The Montero Sport has been able to maintain its status in the segment, despite several new cars coming in.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Mitsubishi Montero sport years

We have researched Mitsubishi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mitsubishi Montero sport cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mitsubishi Montero sport model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mitsubishi Montero sport model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Mitsubishi Montero sport years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Mitsubishi Montero sport car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Mitsubishi Montero sport , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Power train problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Mitsubishi Montero sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Montero sport model years

A total of 82 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 sport model years

There were a total of 15 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 sport model years

There were a total of 72 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 sport model years

There were a total of 3 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 568 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mitsubishi Montero sport . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mitsubishi Montero sport vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-24
  • VIN: JA4LS31H81P
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: On multiple occasions, the horn itself will start blowing without command. After pressing the horn to alert another driver, the horn will then stick again. There are repairs where 3m tape is applied to the horn switch behind the airbag, however it is not a professional repair and looks like it could potentially cause the horn to blow without command again.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-08
  • Date Complaint: 2022-11-24
  • VIN: JA4MT31H91P
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: 4 wh drive light flashes no apparent reason no issues makes the anti lock light come on and also the abs light worried cause a prob wit the brakes or something
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-20
  • Date Complaint: 2022-10-20
  • VIN: JA4MW31R61J
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Mitsubishi Montero. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal felt sticky. Additionally, the contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal twice, the brake pedal vibrated and shuddered. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the ABS system had failed due a faulty hydraulic pump and accumulator. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 01V254002 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,600.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 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 sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-03
  • Date Complaint: 2022-06-03
  • VIN: JA4MW31R21J
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Reporting - safety recall as stated on NY state fail inspection. Emissions issues Émission results- MIL commanded “fail” Code P0136-O2 Sensor Code PO455 -Evaporative emission system leak
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-16
  • Date Complaint: 2021-12-18
  • VIN: JA4MW51R81J
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: After googling and doing a little reaching I found out it is a very common problem amongst these vehicles that the horn starts blaring in the early morning hours non stop until unplugging the fuse or battery. I have to remove the fuse therefore I’m unsafe knowing that I’m driving without any communication with other vehicles. It is a very expensive repair that most people can’t afford so they’re left doing what I learned to do which puts a lot of people in danger. Please help with this safety concern.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2021-10-16
  • VIN: JA4MT21HX1P
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Brake lines completely rusted through and I lost all brakes while heading to work, thankfully I was able to pull the emergency brake to slow down and I coasted through a red light blowing my horn so I was not hit. I bought this vehicle brand new with only 3 miles on it and ever since I initially got it , it began to rust. Clearly it was not rust treated as everything under the body and alot under the hood is rusted. There is even metal inside of the vehicle cabin that is rusted, like the gas cap lever. This vehicle should have been recalled many years ago like the Outlander due to all of the rust the vehicle gets under it causing thing to fail while its being driven. My vehicle just has a little over 100,000 miles on it and it now sits after that brake incident as I am afraid to drive it seeing all of the rust under it. Even the running boards are all rusted underneath. I am sure that everyone with this model vehicle has experienced the same problem but these vehicles are dangerous on the roads due to everything on them rusting .
Mitsubishi Montero sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-31
  • Date Complaint: 2021-08-31
  • VIN: JA4LS31PXWP
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: On Tuesday August 31st I pulled up to Alexandra tire shop to get a tire. I got out of the truck to inquire if the tire that I needed was available. The mechanic informed me that they had the tire I needed. My wife sat in the car on the passenger side as I inquired with the mechanic. Once he informed me that they had the tire, my wife got out of the passenger side to take a seat while the tire was being changed. The mechanic instructed me to get in the truck and pull It forward. I got in on the driver side, crank the truck up , and the airbag exploded, cracking my windshield and my dashboard. Prior to this incident there were no warning indication on my dashboard concerning a default. My wife was put at terrible risk. Had she not exited the truck 2 minutes before the airbag exploded. she would have been injured.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 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 sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-12
  • Date Complaint: 2020-08-17
  • VIN: JA4MW31R41J
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MITSUBISHI MONTERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS AND ALSO WHILE AT A STAND STILL, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMALLY LOUD SOUND FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM ACCUMULATOR FAILURE WAS COMING FROM THE ABS SYSTEM. THE DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 01V254002 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT NHTSA TO FILE A COMPLAINT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,000.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-05-11
  • VIN: JA4MW51R11J
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE BRAKE BOOSTER ACCUMULATOR IS LEAKING SO IT MAKES A 'CHIRPING' SOUND FROM THE LEFT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A RECOGNIZED FAULT WITH THIS VEHICLE AND A RECALL WAS ISSUED I DID NOT GET NOTIFICATION OF THE RECALL SO DID NOT GET IT FIXED. IT HAS NOW BECOME A PROBLEM WHICH I AM TOLD COULD CAUSE THE BRAKES TO FAIL, OBVIOUSLY A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. I HAVE SPOKEN TO MITSUBISHI AND THEY WILL NOT HONOR THE RECALL. *TR
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2010-12-04
  • Date Complaint: 2019-12-11
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JA4LS31H1YP
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2000 MITSUBISHI MONTERO SPORT. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO TWO VEHICLES AHEAD OF HER WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS ENGAGED. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AS IT ROLLED OVER AND LANDED ON ITS DRIVER'S SIDE. THE DRIVER'S AND FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE LEFT SHOULDER, HIP, KNEE, BACK, FACE, BACK, AND SPINE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.*BF*JB
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-05
  • Date Complaint: 2019-07-05
  • VIN: JA4MW51R91J
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MITSUBISHI MONTERO. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE CONTACT'S WIFE HEARD AN ABNORMAL CHIRPING SOUND AND THE BRAKES FAILED. THE SOUND ORIGINATED FROM THE UNDER THE DASHBOARD. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO BRAKE, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. IN ADDITION, THE ABS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 228,983.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-10-05
  • Date Complaint: 2018-11-28
  • VIN: JA4MT31H2YP
  • Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: I HEARD A NOISE WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS WHILE HITTING BUMPS, WHEN I STOPPED DRIVING AND LOOKED UNDER THE VEHICLE I NOTICED THE FRAME WAS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH TO THE OTHER SIDE, AND ESPECIALLY BAD WHERE THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL BRACKET IS ATTACHED TO THE FRAME, ITS SO LOOSE IT DOESN'T LOOK SAFE TO DRIVE.
Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-07-09
  • Date Complaint: 2018-07-10
  • VIN: JA4MT41R71P
  • Components: STEERING,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MITSUBISHI MONTERO. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE BATTERY AND BRAKE INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED TWO TIMES ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CRANK SHAFT GUIDE PIN FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 225,000.

Latest 5 recalls Mitsubishi Montero sport

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the Mitsubishi Montero sport.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Mitsubishi Montero sport 2004
  • Report Received Date: 2004-02-20
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHTS AS STATED ON THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL ARE IN ERROR.
  • Consequence: THIS INFORMATION COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN CONSUMERS LOADING THEIR VEHICLES BEYOND THE GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR).
  • Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE SENT REPLACEMENT LABELS WITH INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO INSTALL THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 14, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
  • Model: Mitsubishi Montero sport 1999
  • Report Received Date: 2001-02-05
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5L ENGINES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES." THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH NONCOMPLIANT BRAKE VACUUM HOSES.
  • Consequence: THESE HOSES COULD BURST CAUSING FLUID LEAKAGE, INCREASING THE BRAKING CAPABILITY OF THE VEHICLE AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VACUUM HOSE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 15, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
  • Model: Mitsubishi Montero sport 2000
  • Report Received Date: 2001-02-05
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5L ENGINES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES." THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH NONCOMPLIANT BRAKE VACUUM HOSES.
  • Consequence: THESE HOSES COULD BURST CAUSING FLUID LEAKAGE, INCREASING THE BRAKING CAPABILITY OF THE VEHICLE AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VACUUM HOSE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 15, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
  • Model: Mitsubishi Montero sport 2001
  • Report Received Date: 2001-02-05
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5L ENGINES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES." THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH NONCOMPLIANT BRAKE VACUUM HOSES.
  • Consequence: THESE HOSES COULD BURST CAUSING FLUID LEAKAGE, INCREASING THE BRAKING CAPABILITY OF THE VEHICLE AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VACUUM HOSE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 15, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
  • Model: Mitsubishi Montero sport 1997
  • Report Received Date: 2000-10-02
  • Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES: MIRAGE MODEL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.5L ENGINES; MONTERO SPORT MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L ENGINES; AND MONTERO MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L ENGINES. THE BOLT SECURING THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY CAN BECOME LOOSE AND THE PULLEY COULD FALL OFF THE VEHICLE.
  • Consequence: THE CONDITION CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: ON THE MIRAGE VEHICLES, THE DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW, IMPROVED CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT ON THE OLDER ENGINES. ON NEW ENGINES WHICH ALREADY HAVE THE IMPROVED BOLT, THE DEALER WILL TIGHTEN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT TO THE CORRECT TORQUE SPECIFICATION. ON THE MONTERO MODELS, DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT TO THE CORRECT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. IF THE BOLT IS DAMAGED, IT WILL BE REPLACED.

Latest negative Mitsubishi Montero sport car reviews

  1. Merl Yundt 2025-03-14

    Vehicle year: 2002

    This car has been reliable, but admittedly a bit boring. We've had it since new and it's been great that it's rarely had any issues. However, I do wish we had opted for the 3.5 liter engine as it lacks power when carrying passengers. It's designed for people under 5'10, so taller individuals may need to hunch over to see out the windows and squeeze into the doors. Additionally, there could be more cup holders and storage space. While it may not be the most comfortable car for transporting more than three small adults, it is popular for off-road use.

  2. Jack Ruecker 2025-03-11

    Vehicle year: 1999

    If you're considering this as an alternative to an expensive SUV, it's worth noting that while you may save money compared to a Grand Cherokee or Land Rover, the maintenance costs can add up. Unfortunately, we experienced some issues with brake rotors, having to replace them five times. Even though we only drove it 10k a year, three of these replacements were before the car had 12,000 miles. Additionally, the car was quite noisy and had rough handling, with the steering feeling very rough. It also felt a bit flimsy and not very sturdy. For a truck, you might expect it to handle small potholes with ease, but unfortunately, it sounded like it was going to fall apart.

  3. Damon Schumm 2025-02-27

    Vehicle year: 1999

    I've owned this truck for over 2 years and I must say, I really like it! Living in snowy MA, it handles great in the snow and ice. The tires have held up well and I haven't needed any brake work yet. I used to commute 45 miles one way, 5 days a week and I find the driver's seat to be quite comfortable. It's not a perfect 10, but it's definitely not awful either. The body is sharp looking and the black color looks great. I've even installed a hitch and have towed 5k lbs with no problem. Gas mileage is decent at around 20-24 mpg on the 3.0L v6. As for the negatives, the cup holders are poorly placed, the stock stereo is subpar, and the price of parts can be a bit steep (a good reason to buy American). With 102k miles on it, I've only needed to do regular maintenance (belts, plugs, etc). All in all, I would definitely buy this truck again!

  4. Otho Gaylord 2025-02-26

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I have owned my Mitsubishi Montero Sport for four years, but unfortunately, it has had many transmission problems. Starting out, it's very sluggish and there's an annoying slip between 2nd and 3rd gears. However, once you get past 3rd gear, it's a smooth ride. The sensors have also been a big problem. I've had to replace my O2 sensor twice, which cost $189 each time, only to have them go bad again within a year. Recently, the service engine soon light came on and now the 4 wheel drive is also going bad. Despite all of this, I am looking forward to trading it soon and moving on to a more reliable vehicle.

  5. Jonathon Labadie 2025-02-03

    Vehicle year: 2000

    I really enjoyed driving my Mitsubishi Montero Sport, but unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the construction of the vehicle. I had a few problems with oil leaks and lifters getting stuck, which took some time to fix. Despite several attempts to repair the issue, I ended up needing a new short block. Unfortunately, during the repair process, one of the tension pulley bolts was damaged, causing it to shear off a month later. Currently, I am experiencing additional oil leaks from the head gasket to the cam plug o-rings. Additionally, I have noticed some difficulty shifting from 3rd to 4th gear when accelerating quickly. Overall, I have had some issues with my vehicle, but I still appreciate the time I spent driving it.

Latest positive Mitsubishi Montero sport car reviews

  1. Marcellus Gerlach 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2002

    Best mid-sized SUV in the world!!!

  2. Ceasar Mante 2025-03-21

    Vehicle year: 2002

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car - it's been a great ride so far! Despite having had reconstructive spinal surgery and being 53 years old, I've been driving more than ever before. The car is really comfortable and the A.C. is amazing - it'll definitely cool you down on a hot day. I've noticed that some people think it's a bit top heavy, but I've found that slowing down a bit really helps. I'm guessing you might be an Explorer owner or a fan of classic cars like the MG. Either way, I think it's important to stick to the speed limits and use common sense while driving. Safety first, right? If you're feeling adventurous, maybe you could try biking around the city instead - it's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery. Take care!

  3. Paolo Bayer 2025-03-20

    Vehicle year: 2003

    I recently traded in my Ford Explorer due to high maintenance costs. I must say, this new vehicle rides and handles much better than the Explorer. It has better take off and fuel economy, which is a plus. I am hoping that I won't have to visit the repair shop as frequently as I did with my previous vehicle.

  4. Justen Larson 2025-03-17

    Vehicle year: 2000

    Your SUV sounds like a great vehicle! You've had it for 3 years and put 120,000 miles on it, and it still performs well. It's been a reliable road trip companion for you, and you've taken it on many long trips without any issues. While the gas mileage could be better, it's comfortable and has held up well over time. You've taken good care of it with regular maintenance, and even after 11 years, the original belts were still on it. The leather seats and buttons still look new, which is impressive. Overall, it sounds like you have a fantastic SUV that will serve you well for many years to come!

  5. Earl Thiel 2025-03-17

    Vehicle year: 2001

    Without proper maintenance, I've had zero problems with this truck. I wish they were still produced, I'd buy another. It has decent gas mileage for an SUV and a fantastic 4X4. I use it on and off-road, nothing extreme, just for fun. It is very easy to live with on a day-to-day basis. I'm going to install airbags in the rear coil springs so it won't sag so much when pulling my 12X7 foot trailer with two full-size motorcycles aboard.

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