1990 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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Common 1990 Mitsubishi Montero problems
The Mitsubishi Montero, also known as the Pajero or Shogun, is a popular full-size SUV known for its reliability. However, like any vehicle, it can experience common problems over time. This article will focus on the 1990 Mitsubishi Montero and its common issues.
- Brake failure due to a faulty hydraulic booster: The hydraulic booster is responsible for assisting the brakes. If it fails, the brakes may not function properly, leading to potential safety issues.
- Transmission problems: Transmission issues are common in the Montero, with some owners reporting trouble with the 2001 model's transmission. Symptoms include the vehicle switching into neutral and refusing to go back into gear, engine surging between shifts, and slow or delayed shifts.
- Various electrical issues: Some 2001 Montero models have experienced electrical problems, such as the horn honking even when the vehicle is parked, the alarm activating in the middle of the night, and issues with the airbag housing.
- Valve stem leaks: Earlier models of the Montero, particularly those with the 3.0-liter V6 engine, often suffered from valve stem leaks. If the valve seals crack, oil can get into the combustion chamber, causing the engine to burn oil and produce bluish smoke.
- Oxygen sensor issues: Both the 3.0-liter and 3.5-liter V6 engines in the 2002 Montero had problems with their oxygen sensors. The heater circuits would malfunction, reducing fuel efficiency and raising emissions.
In conclusion, while the Mitsubishi Montero is generally a reliable vehicle, it can experience common problems, especially in its transmission, electrical components, and engine. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the Montero.
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.
What engine is in a 1991 Mitsubishi Montero?
V6
Used 1991 Mitsubishi Montero - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 3.0 L |
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 143 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
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.
Is Montero Sport durable?
In the competitive mid-size SUV category, the Montero Sport is the best option for those looking for a combination of adaptability and dependability. Its rugged design screams durability and strength.
1990 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
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Mitsubishi Montero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Mitsubishi Montero complaints
The NHTSA has received 24 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Mitsubishi Montero.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1990 MITUSBISHI MONTERO STARTED TO SMOKE. CONSUMER PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER AND VEHICLE BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. *NJOHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0206-89. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-27
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. SUDDENLY CONSUMER LOST POWER STEERING. HOWEVER, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND PULLED OVER. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE PULLEY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-18
- VIN: JA4GJ31S2LJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT BROKE, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND ALL OTHER BELT-DRIVEN COMPONENTS. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION IN THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN HARD TO SHIFT FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS, AND I WANT TO KNOW IF THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, AND IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THE TRANSMISSIONS. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH, AND THIS MAY BE A RECALL NUMBER THAT MAY HELP (M9122008000). *****DIMS 11 IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS******770805. *AK *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-03
- VIN: JA4GJ51SXLL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HAVING PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE BOLT THAT BROKE WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT 25 MPH. TS THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE VIBRATION DAMPER BOLT WHICH CAUSED THE PULLEY TO FALL OFF. *JG
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JA4GJ51SXLJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE BOLT ON THE FRONT OF THE CRANKSHAFT BROKE OFF, CAUSING THE PULLEY AND BELT TO FLY OFF, RESULTING IN LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-02
- VIN: JA4GJ31S8LJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER HAD FOUND A DESIGN FRAUD ON VEHICLE. HAD TAKEN IT TO A TECHNICIAN FOR CHECK UP. FOUND REAR BRAKE HOSE WILL PULL WHEN VEHICLE IS LIFTED. THEN WHEN IS PUT BACK ON GROUND COULD HAVE BRAKE FAILURE DUE TO EXTENSION ON BRAKE HOSE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1JA4641S0LJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON DRIVEWAY FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES WHEN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE STARTED IN ENGINE. PRIOR TO INCIDENT, CONSUMER HAD A BROKEN THERMOSTAT REPLACED. *AK *SLC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-29
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST SYSTEM & OIL WERE FULL OF GAS. MECHANIC HAD TO CONTACT SOMEONE IN ORGEON TO GET HELP. NEITHER HAD EVER HEARD OR SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT. CONSUMER HAD TO GET A JUMP START, AND JUST FROM SPARKS VEHICLE COULD HAVE BLOWN UP. MECHANIC SAID STILL NO GUARANTEE THAT IT STILL WON'T BLOW UP. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-29
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS II TIRES EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION, CONSUMER REPLACED TIRES AFTER HAVING ONLY 20000 MILES ON THEM, CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT. *SLC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JA4GJ51S6LJ
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION AFTER ENGAGING VEHICLE INTO GEAR, RESULTED IN CRASH. THERE WAS PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND VEHICLE WAS TOTALED BY INSURANCE COMPANY. DEALER/MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED. *AK *ML
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-22
- VIN: JA4QJ41SXLJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER IS EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THE SEAT RESTRAINT BELT IN THE MIDDLE REAR SEAT. THE RESTRAINT BUCKLE IS TOO LOOSE AND THE BELT IS NOT LONG ENOUGH TO RESTRAIN CHILD SAFETY SEATS. MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JAUGJ51S0LJ
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE THROTTLE STUCK, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO INCREASE SPEED, OWNER PUT VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL, HIT BRAKE AND VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL, RESULTING IN A VEHICLE ROLLOVER. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JA4GJ41S4LJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AT APPROXIMATELY 25MPH, SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR, STICK WHICH CONNECTS WITH CLUTCH PLATE BELOW RUBBER GAURD BROKE OFF BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD GEAR, CLUTCH NEVER ENGAGED IN 3RD GEAR, DEALER REPLACED CLUTCH, WHICH STICKS INTERMITTENTLY BETWEEN 1ST AND 2ND GEAR ONLY. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-10
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING SHAFT THAT GOES INTO STEERING GEAR GETS PITTEDAND ERODES DUE TO ROAD GRIME AND SALT, THIS ROUGH SHAFT TEARS SEALAND LUBRICATION IS DEPLETED, VEHICLE HARD TO STEER/DOES NOT RETURN TO STRAIGHT WITHOUT MANUAL ASSIST. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-31
- VIN: JA4GJ5159LJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED ABOUT RECALL ON THREE OCCASIONS, REPLY--- NO PARTS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-18
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE FRONT BRAKE HOSE BROKE DOWN. PLEASE DESCRIBE.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-11-15
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: OUTER REARVIEW MIRRORS SCREWS STRIPPED, CANNOT BE TIGHTEND; MIRRORS SWAY BACK AND FORTH; DRIVER CANNOT ADJUST TO VIEW TRAFFIC; CAUSES HAZARDOUS DRIVING. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-11-15
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: OUTER REARVIEW MIRRORS SCREWS STRIPPED, CANNOT BE TIGHTEND; MIRRORS SWAY BACK AND FORTH; DRIVER CANNOT ADJUST TO VIEW TRAFFIC; CAUSES HAZARDOUS DRIVING. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-01
- VIN: JA4GJ31S1LJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT LATCH RELEASE BUTTON DETERIORATED/BROKE, CAUSING THE SEAT BELT TAB TO JAM/NOT PROPERLY CATCH IN THE BUCKLE. *SD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-24
- VIN: JA4GJ315XLJ
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE ELECTRICAL WIRING GOING TO THE FUEL PUMP WAS BURNED OUT AND MELTED PART OF THE FUEL PUMP. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-06-14
- VIN: JA4GJ31S6LJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE RED BUTTON BROKE INTO PIECES AND FELL INTO BUCKLE, CAUSING THE SEAT BELT TO BE UNUSABLE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-04-10
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE BOTH SEAT BELT BUCKLE PIECE OF THE PLASTIC BROKE AND FALL INSIDE THE BUCKLE HARD TO LOCK. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-01
- VIN: JA4GJ31S8LJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT; FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE INSIDE PLASTIC BROKE. TT
1990 Mitsubishi Montero recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1990 Mitsubishi Montero.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Positive 1990 Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Mitsubishi Montero problems:
1990 Mitsubishi Montero Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
Problem with your 1990 Mitsubishi Montero? Our list of 2 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1990 Mitsubishi Montero.
Mitsubishi Montero 1990: Q&A on 3.0 V6 Problems
Jan 25, 2015 ... The crank shaft and particularly the two cam shaft oil seals are extremely common to fail. When these let go they will leak only when the engine ...
1990 Mitsubishi Montero Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1990 Mitsubishi Montero repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Mitsubishi mechanics near you.
1990 Montero | IH8MUD Forum
Its a 1990, v6, 5 speed, 179k, and of course 4wd. How reliable are they? Any known problems? Thanks in advance!! Landcruiserjunky.
lets talk honestly about 1990 montero | Expedition Portal
Sep 15, 2013 ... Mitsubishi. lets talk honestly about 1990 ... issue's(using a bit of oil) tranny got ... when you say rebuild do you mean engine and transmission??
Other years of Mitsubishi Montero
Are you having problems with your 1990 Mitsubishi Montero?
Jalon Sporer 2024-11-02
Great cheap SUV! It sounds like so much fun!!!
Robin Wilderman 2024-11-02
The Montero that I own, which is a 1990, has over 160,000 miles on it, but it's still going strong and I absolutely love it! I drive it every day. I initially put a third row seat in the Montero, but later removed it because I needed the HUGE truck for cargo. If you're looking for a reliable 4X4 SUV under $5,000, this is definitely the one for you!
Kenny Thompson 2024-09-22
We really love this car! It's amazing that it's still running so well after 140,000 miles!
Lloyd Lemke 2024-06-20
We are the orginal owners...now have 224,000 miles. Engine rebuilt once, new rings, new head, 3rd oil pump. Works like brand new now, saving it to give to our 16 year old son. This is the only car he has known...Have been to Quebec twice in the past two years in it. It is very tough built and reliable
Dorcas Adams 2024-05-25
It sounds like you have a great vehicle! I noticed that you've made a few modifications to it, including adding manual locking hubs, larger tires, a bushguard, and roof racks. It's great to hear that the engine and transmission are working perfectly and that you've had no issues with it getting stuck. Thanks for sharing your experience!