1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport problems
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 In the United States, where it was superseded by the Endeavor, sales ended in 2004.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.
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Common 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport problems
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport 1997 is known to have several common problems, primarily related to the crankshaft pulley bolt, brake system, and four-wheel drive.
- Brake Failure due to a Faulty Hydraulic Brake Booster: Owners of the 2001 Montero have reported a loud noise in the front of their vehicle, which is caused by a failed hydraulic brake booster. The booster is a component of the vehicle's braking system that increases the force to be applied to the brake master cylinder. A YouTuber identified the root of the problem as a motor that wears out inside the hydraulic brake booster. When the motor wears out, it can cease to function, making the brakes unusable. Mitsubishi issued a voluntary recall for the issue, even though the NHTSA did not find any particular safety defect.
- Four-Wheel Drive Issues: Four-wheel drive is a common problem for the Montero Sport, with three reported issues. One owner reported that their Montero Sport would not engage in four-wheel drive, while another owner experienced a loud noise when engaging the four-wheel drive.
These common problems are based on complaints from owners of the Mitsubishi Montero Sport 1997 and are not exhaustive. However, they provide a general overview of the issues that owners have experienced with this vehicle.
Are old Mitsubishi Monteros reliable?
According to MotorTrend and various forums, the Montero is overall a reliable SUV. However, there are certain model years that run into problems in their transmissions, braking, and engines, which are always certainly expensive to fix. These are the 2001 to 2002 Montero models.
How much is a 1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport?
Prices range from just under $18,000 for the four-cylinder, two-wheel-drive ES to just over $30,000 for a loaded, V6-powered four-wheel-drive LS, which is the model driven here.
Is Montero Sport reliable?
Whether navigating city streets or venturing off-road, the Montero Sport delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience. With a blend of practicality and performance, this SUV is a solid choice for Filipino families seeking a reliable and capable vehicle.
How many miles can a Mitsubishi Montero last?
I have a few customers well into the 300k mile range, and a lot of customers in the 200s. Really it all depends on how well the vehicle is maintained, but it is unusual to see any major failures even at this mileage provided the basic maintenance is done on time.
1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport.
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1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport.
- 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.
Negative 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport car reviews
Positive 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it used with 35k miles and drove it for 5 years without any major issues. There was only one time when the spark plug wire came loose and the electric antenna had a bit of an attitude, but nothing too serious. I thought about trading it in for a new car once it was paid off, but I just couldn't part with my baby. After 132,000 miles, I finally have to say goodbye. The transmission is starting to go, which is a bit of a bummer, but it's time for me to get a more fuel-efficient sedan. Still, getting 17-20 mpg for an SUV is not bad at all! The ride is great too. Even though I'm 6'3
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I received this car from my aunt. It's been great so far, although it does burn a little oil. Other than that, it's been problem-free. I really like the added look that the side steps and mud flaps give it.
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I've had a few SUVs in my time, including a couple of Isuzu Troopers and an International Scout. While the Troopers were mostly reliable, they had uncomfortable seats, and even after I upgraded to top-of-the-line seats from a junkyard, they still weren't comfortable enough, so I ended up selling them. But then I came across this Montero FSBO, and luckily the woman who owned it had opted for the aftermarket leather seats. They're incredibly comfortable, and I've driven over 115,000 miles with no issues. And the best part? I've been getting over 19 mpg in town!
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Your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport sounds like a great vehicle! It has been with you for a long time and has proven to be very dependable. Although the power antenna and Infinity radio stopped working after a few years, the leather seats are a nice touch. The truck-like suspension makes it a great vehicle for hauling home improvement supplies, rocks, and concrete. The Montero Sport has a unique and attractive design that has influenced the design of other SUVs. You even upgraded the radio to a CD player and the wheels to 17 inches to give it a fresh look. It's clear that you have taken great care of your vehicle and it has served you well.
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We've had our Red Montero Sport for about 5 years now, and it's still going strong. I've been considering buying a newer vehicle, but since this one is paid off and still runs so well, and still looks great for a '97, I just can't justify getting rid of it. One of the best things about it is that it's spacious in the back seat for my two teenagers and has plenty of room throughout. The seat belts are starting to lose their 'spring', but it's not a major issue, especially for a 12-year-old vehicle. I've never owned a vehicle this old that has been so trouble-free. Routine maintenance and tune-ups are about all we've had to do. It looks newer than a '97.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport problems:
1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport: Common Problems & Q&A
Jun 27, 2012 ... Hey, fantastic! Here is the actual breakdown of the starters for the Sport: 1997 through late 1998/early 1999 = Starter 1 (this is the ...
97 Montero Sport 3.0 rough idle/stalls - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi ...
Feb 25, 2012 ... As mxmikie has said, check the IAC, as a common problem with montero sports when resetting/disconnecting the battery is that the IAC will go ...
1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
1997 Montero Sport 3.0L problems - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi ...
Mitsubishi Montero & Montero Sport - 1997 Montero Sport 3.0L problems - I just bought a 97 montero sport as a daily commuter, ...
Opinion of Mitsu Montero Sport | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Jan 26, 2022 ... ... Montero Sport . So ... Additionally, some 1997 to 1999 vehicles ... Other common problems with the Mitsubishi Montero Sport include transmission ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Montero sport
Are you having problems with your 1997 Mitsubishi Montero sport?
Lionel Bauch 2024-04-02
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1997 Montero Sport. I purchased it back in 2002 with 60,000 miles on it, and I have to say, it's been a very reliable vehicle. In fact, I haven't had to open the hood for any problems in the last few years. The only downside is that it can be a little bumpy, but other than that, it's a great SUV that requires very little maintenance.