2001 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 2001 Mitsubishi Montero problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Mitsubishi Montero 2001, several common problems have been identified:
- Oil Leaks from Valve Covers: A prevalent issue reported by Montero owners is oil leaks from the valve covers. This problem is particularly notable on the 3.8 L V6 engine, with leaks commonly occurring at the rear of the valve cover. The leaking oil can drip onto the exhaust, leading to a noticeable smell and potential hazards.
- Cracked Exhaust Manifold: Another common problem is the occurrence of cracked exhaust manifolds in Montero vehicles. This issue is widespread across various models and can result in exhaust leaks, affecting engine performance and potentially causing safety concerns.
- Faulty Gauges: Montero owners have reported issues with the vehicle's gauges, including inaccurate readings for fuel levels and temperature. Malfunctioning gauges can lead to incorrect information being displayed to the driver, impacting the vehicle's operation and safety.
- Flashing Front Four-Wheel Drive Lights: Some owners have experienced problems with the front four-wheel drive lights flashing intermittently. This issue can indicate a malfunction in the transfer case or sensors, causing confusion in the vehicle's drive mode selection and potentially affecting the Montero's performance.
- Starting Issues: Starting problems have been a common complaint among Montero owners, with reports of the vehicle failing to start or experiencing difficulties in cranking. These issues can be caused by various factors such as faulty fuses, starters, or other components related to the starting system.
- Transmission Concerns: Montero owners have also highlighted transmission-related issues, including difficulties in shifting between 2H and 4H modes. Problems with engaging the 4WD system can lead to poor mileage, tire wear, and potential safety risks, especially if the vehicle is inadvertently engaged in 4H mode.
These common problems with the Mitsubishi Montero 2001, as reported by owners, highlight a range of issues affecting different aspects of the vehicle's performance, reliability, and safety. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the continued functionality and safety 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.
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.
What is the fuel consumption of Montero 2001?
Find and Compare Cars
| 2001 Mitsubishi Montero | |
|---|---|
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 14 combined city/highway MPG 13 city 16 highway 7.1 gals/100 miles |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates Shared by Vehicle Owners | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| Vehicle Specification Data | |
| EPA Size Class | Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD |
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.
2001 Mitsubishi Montero complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2001 Mitsubishi Montero recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT CONTAIN A STEP-BY-STEP DESCRIPTION FOR HEADREST ADJUSTMENT WHEN INSTALLING A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM (CRS) TETHER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE TETHER STRAP IS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED TO THE TETHER ANCHOR, THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENT RESTRAINED. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE CHILD COULD BE INJURED.
- Remedy: A LETTER OUTLINING THE PROBLEM WILL BE SENT TO OWNERS ALONG WITH A STICKER CONTAINING THE CORRECT INSTRUCTIONS AS WELL AS INSTRUCTIONS ON WHERE TO AFFIX THE STICKER IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-888-648-7820.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE ACCUMULATOR THAT IS INSTALLED ON THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE BOOSTER MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, THIS COULD RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF THE PRESSURIZED NITROGEN GAS FROM INSIDE THE ACCUMULATOR.
- Consequence: THE LOSS OF THIS GAS PRESSURE COULD RESULT IN AN ABNORMAL NOISE FROM THE LEFT SIDE OF THE DASH PANEL WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, AND POSSIBLY A DELAYED FIRST TIME BRAKE BOOST ASSIST AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN PARKED FOR A PERIOD OF TIME, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN IMPROVED ACCUMULATOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION MAILING BEGAN OCTOBER 1, 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.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRRORS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WHICH DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 111, "REARVIEW MIRRORS."
- Consequence: THIS LIMITS THE DRIVER'S FIELD OF VISION ON THAT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REARVIEW MIRROR.
Negative 2001 Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
Positive 2001 Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
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I purchased my Mitsubishi Montero the very day Consumer Reports rated it as 'unacceptable'. Would I make the same purchase again? Absolutely! I adore my Montero. It drives like a dream and the comfort is second to none. The best part of being a Montero owner, though, is its appearance. I have had numerous people come up to me and tell me what an awesome looking vehicle I have. I love, love, love my Montero!
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Congratulations on your purchase of the newly designed 2001 Limited! It's great to hear that you've made some customizations to make your ride even more enjoyable for your passengers. With 25K miles on it, it's fantastic that you haven't experienced any issues. While it may not have the best gas mileage, the 4WD Low Range provides plenty of power for off-roading. In terms of style, the 2001 Limited is definitely the best-looking SUV out there. If you're looking for a reliable and stylish 4WD, the Full Monty is definitely the way to go!
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This has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. I bought it with 52000 miles on it and it now has 122000 miles with out any major or minor repairs. The vehicle rides great, is fun to drive, gets good gas mileage and is an all around great SUV. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone. In fact, I will buy another one when I wear this one out.
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Hey there! I wanted to share the story of my 01 Montero with you. My family actually bought it used in 02 with only 12k miles on it. It was my parents' daily driver until 2005 when they decided to upgrade to a Pacifica. The Montero sat in our driveway for over a year until I turned 16 in 2006 and got it as my first car. Since then, I've put a lot of miles on it - from 46k to 143k in just 6 years! Of course, with any car that's been around for a while, there have been a few issues. For example, the rear heater pipes exploded and dumped all the radiator's contents onto the road. But, with a little bit of research and some elbow grease, I was able to replace the broken pipes myself for just $17. I've also had to do some routine fixes for cars over 100k miles, like replacing the alternator, timing belt, and oil pump. But overall, it's been a very reliable and fun 4x4 that's okay on gas - averaging around 16 mpg. I absolutely love my MITSU!
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I purchased a car with 64,000 miles on it, and now it has 285,000 miles. It drives smoothly and quietly, getting 19 mpg in the mountains and 24 mpg on the highway. Although I did have an issue with a squeaking noise coming from the front of the car, Mitsubishi refunded me for it. The car performs well in the snow, and I even had someone suggest that I put it in 4-wheel drive when I got stuck, although I thought it was already on all the time. Overall, it has been a reliable and enjoyable car to own.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Mitsubishi Montero problems:
Common Problems with 3rd Gen Montero's - Mitsubishi Forum ...
Jan 14, 2015 ... Ignition Control Module and Throttle Position Sensor are issues I have seen are common, from reading here. I just bought an 02 with 96k miles ...
2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
2001 Montero problems - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi Enthusiast ...
Aug 8, 2011 ... Mitsubishi Montero & Montero Sport - 2001 Montero problems - I just bought a 2001 montero. Not the sport one but the bigger, prettier model.
Q&A: 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Problems | Montero 2001
Nov 8, 2014 ... I HAVE A 2001 MITSUBISHI MONTERO LIMITED AND MY BRAKES ARE NOT WORKING. HE MECHANIC SAID IT WAS THE BRAKE BOOSTER. - Answered by a verified ...
2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Montero
Are you having problems with your 2001 Mitsubishi Montero?
Emerald Champlin 2025-04-20
After doing some research for a second-hand SUV, I found that the Montero Limited was the best value for my money. I thought, 'Mitsubishi, how could I go wrong?' Unfortunately, I did experience some issues with the car, even though I purchased it with an extended warranty that has saved me thousands of dollars. The car has been to the dealer for just about everything that can go wrong with an automobile. At 80K miles, the engine blew due to a rare event where a part of the heater pipe broke off while driving and all fluid was lost so fast that it didn't show up on the thermostat. I had to replace the engine at the dealer in 5/2009, and since then, it has been back 8 times and has broken down 3 times. However, I know that I'm not the only one who has experienced these issues. If you look online, you will see that others have had similar problems.
Brian Barton 2024-11-06
After 60K + miles and 2.5 years of ownership, I have unfortunately found this SUV to be lacking in quality and longevity, despite its initial promise of affordability. The chipping paint on the bottom panels after only 2 months and the subsequent difficulties in getting Mitsubishi to warranty/repair it were concerning signs. Additionally, the brake design is poor and the pads are expensive and require frequent replacement. I have also experienced issues with the computer display, electronic antenna, fuel door release, rear wheel lugs, 4wd instrument bulb, and oxygen sensors, all of which require costly dealer resets with every drive to Las Vegas. These problems have left me feeling disappointed in the vehicle's overall performance and reliability.
Jeramy Koss 2024-09-21
The car has had a noisy and bumpy ride, and unfortunately, it overheated at 33,000 miles without any warning. Currently, I am in a dispute with Mitsubishi as they are refusing to cover the claim due to a defective thermostat, which is not covered under their warranty. Additionally, the extended warranty will not cover it because it should be covered under Mitsubishi's 5-year powertrain warranty. Recently, I had to replace the hub bearings at 40,000 miles, and my mechanic informed me that the car is under-engineered with lightweight parts on a heavy vehicle. Furthermore, I discovered that the dealership makes more profit selling questionable extended warranties over better ones. This year alone, I have spent $4,300 on this car at 40,000 miles.
Lorenz Kub 2024-08-09
I will not be purchasing an SUV like this again due to its poor gas mileage, high engine revs when driving at high speeds, and the uselessness of the third row seat, even for small children. Additionally, the depreciation of this vehicle is quite significant.
Dewayne Mills 2024-07-16
This car's performance in the snow is subpar, even with 4WD. However, I believe that with proper maintenance and driving techniques, it can still be a reliable vehicle. While my experience with the dealership was not satisfactory, I acknowledge that this may not be representative of their overall service. I will take this as a learning experience and make a more informed decision in the future.