1988 Mitsubishi Montero problems

Common 1988 Mitsubishi Montero problems

The Mitsubishi Montero, also known as the Pajero or Shogun in other markets, is a full-size SUV known for its reliability and off-road capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. This article will focus on the first-generation Mitsubishi Montero, specifically the 1988 model, and its common issues based on complaints from owners.

• Engine Issues
  • Overheating due to clogged radiator: The first-generation Montero's engine is prone to overheating, often due to a clogged radiator. This issue can be caused by a lack of maintenance or the use of low-quality coolants, which can lead to the buildup of deposits and debris in the radiator. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the cooling system can help prevent this issue.
  • Head gasket failure: Another common engine issue in the first-generation Montero is head gasket failure. This problem can be caused by several factors, including overheating, poor coolant maintenance, or even manufacturing defects. Symptoms of head gasket failure include coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, and engine overheating.
  • Carburetor problems: The carburetor in the 1988 Montero can also cause issues, particularly with starting and idling. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty or clogged fuel injectors, worn-out spark plugs, or issues with the carburetor's idle adjustment. Regular maintenance and tuning of the carburetor can help prevent these issues.

• Suspension and Drivetrain Issues
  • Transfer case failure: The transfer case in the first-generation Montero is prone to failure, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. This issue can be caused by several factors, including wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. Symptoms of transfer case failure include difficulty shifting into four-wheel drive, loud noises from the transfer case, and even complete failure of the four-wheel-drive system.
  • Rear axle bearing failure: The rear axle bearings in the first-generation Montero can also fail, particularly in vehicles that are used for heavy towing or off-road driving. This issue can be caused by several factors, including wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or manufacturing defects. Symptoms of rear axle bearing failure include noise and vibration from the rear of the vehicle, particularly during acceleration or turning.
  • Sagging suspension due to worn-out springs: The suspension system in the first-generation Montero can also suffer from wear and tear, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. One common issue is sagging suspension due to worn-out springs, which can lead to poor handling, difficulty steering, and even tire wear. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out suspension components can help prevent this issue.

In conclusion, while the Mitsubishi Montero is known for its reliability and off-road capabilities, the first-generation model, particularly the 1988 version, has its share of common issues. Regular maintenance and tuning of the engine, suspension, and drivetrain components can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of the 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 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.

Why did they stop making Mitsubishi Montero?

Unfortunately for Mitsubishi, Montero popularity waned in its later years as buyers started to focus more on crossovers than capable, truck-based SUVs like the Montero — so Mitsubishi cancelled the Montero in the U.S. market following the 2006 model year, and devoted itself instead to selling crossovers.

What kind of engine is in the Mitsubishi Montero?

4 cylinder Diesel engine

The Montero Sport, a new SUV from Mitsubishi comes in 4 variants. The top variant of Montero Sport is powered by the GT 4WD AT a 2442 cc, 4 cylinder Diesel engine that fires 179 hp of power and 430 Nm torque. The 7 seater.

1988 Mitsubishi Montero car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Montero problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Mitsubishi Montero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.