2003 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 2003 Mitsubishi Montero problems
The Mitsubishi Montero from the 2003 model year has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. These issues range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures.
One of the most common problems with the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero is a leaking valve cover gasket. Both valve covers tend to have issues, but the one on the driver's side is more problematic. Almost every Montero that has been seen has an oil leak from this area, which can drip down onto the exhaust and produce a smell. This issue is likely due to the design of the valve cover and gasket, as well as the heat generated by the engine
Another common problem with the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero is a cracked exhaust manifold. This issue is not unique to the Montero, as it is a problem with many cars. However, it seems to be a particular issue with the Gen 3 Montero, as every set of manifolds pulled off has had a crack. This is likely due to the casting or the location of the manifolds, which can cause them to overheat and crack. This issue can lead to a loss of power and a decrease in fuel efficiency
The gauges on the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero are also known to have issues. The fuel gauge may read incorrectly due to a bad resistor, which can cause the gauge to read high or low. The temperature gauge may also have issues, as it may not accurately reflect the engine's temperature. This can lead to overheating or other engine problems if not addressed
The front four-wheel drive lights on the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero are also known to have issues. When shifting between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, the lights may flash due to a sensor or wiring issue. This can be a minor inconvenience or a major safety issue, depending on the severity of the problem
In addition to these common problems, the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero is also known to have issues with independent front and rear suspension alignment. This can make it difficult to align the car and get a lot of lift out of it. This issue can also make it difficult to drive the car comfortably, especially on rough roads or when towing
The support from Mitsubishi for the 2003 Montero is also known to be lacking. Dealers may not be able to service the car if something goes wrong, and finding a mechanic who knows how to work on the car can be difficult. This can make it challenging to own and maintain the car, especially for those who are not mechanically inclined
In summary, the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero is known to have several common problems, including leaking valve cover gaskets, cracked exhaust manifolds, gauge issues, four-wheel drive light issues, suspension alignment problems, and a lack of support from Mitsubishi. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and can make owning and maintaining the car challenging.
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 was Montero discontinued?
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.
2003 Mitsubishi Montero complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2003 Mitsubishi Montero recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 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: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS FULL AND THE VEHICLE IS PARKED FACING FORWARD ON AN UPWARD SLOPE, THE FUEL TANK LEVELING VALVE MAY NOT MAINTAIN PROPER SEALING IN THE EVENT THE FUEL EXPANDS FROM A RISE IN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE.
- Consequence: IF THE FUEL LEVELING VALVE DOES NOT SEAL PROPERLY, FUEL MAY LEAK ONTO THE GROUND. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEVELING VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037 OR MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
Positive 2003 Mitsubishi Montero car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Mitsubishi Montero problems:
Q&A: 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Limited - Common Problems ...
Oct 8, 2014 ... It doesn't seem to be misfiring all the time. Just on occasions below 65mph and usually not very strong. Does it much worse almost 100% of the ...
03 Sport Common Problems - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi ...
Aug 13, 2018 ... Mitsubishi Montero & Montero Sport - 03 Sport Common Problems - Hi guys, new here looking for information on an 03 Montero Sport.
Reliability of 2001-2003 Montero sport | Expedition Portal
Dec 7, 2018 ... My wife's truck is an '03 Montero Sport Limited 2WD. We had it for several years before I discovered it was designed off of Mitsubishi's ...
2003 Montero Limited issues (and fixes) - Mitsubishi Forum ...
Jul 9, 2017 ... I had a similar issue on the passenger side of the second row. I found a solution for this somewhere in this forum - in a nutshell - you have to ...
2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
Other years of Mitsubishi Montero
Are you having problems with your 2003 Mitsubishi Montero?
Karl Ankunding 2025-03-28
I really enjoyed the build quality and interior when I first purchased the vehicle. However, I experienced some regret during the first year due to the 'road wildness' issue. After reading some comments online, I discovered that I needed to change the 'OEM' tires. I switched to Michelin LTS and it made a huge difference. Now, I absolutely love everything about this vehicle. With 97,000 miles on it, I have not had any major problems. It is agile, rock solid, and extremely comfortable both inside and out, with the best visibility. Even though my company would buy me anything I want, I have chosen to stick with this vehicle because there is nothing else out there that interests me.
Kayleigh Casper 2025-03-11
This is my first full size Montero, two others before were sports. I have noticed that this vehicle is made with better quality materials and is all around a nicer vehicle. However, it was not the right fit for me. Although I had some negative experiences with Mitsubishi, I still believe that it is a nice car. I hope to find a better fit for my needs in the future.
Stuart Auer 2025-03-08
I've owned a Montero Limited for five years and I absolutely love it. When my dad asked me which vehicle I preferred between his Hummer H2 and my Montero, I chose the Montero without hesitation. The interior is of high quality and very comfortable. The SUV has a rock-solid frame and performs exceptionally well off-road. Despite its size, it has a good take-off. Everywhere I go, people turn their heads and ask about the car. Most even think it's a newer model. The sound system is great for being stock, although I do wish it had the fourth generation's 650-watt Rockford Fosgate system with a 10-inch sub and 12 speakers, as well as the 240hp MIVEC engine. However, I'm still satisfied with what I have. I can't imagine choosing any other SUV over my Montero, except for the H1 Alpha.
Clovis Crist 2025-02-28
This SUV may not be the most attractive on the road, but it is definitely dependable. I purchased mine new in 2003 and have owned it for over 13 years now. Initially, I was not impressed with the interior design and noise level at higher speeds, but I have grown to love it. I have only had to make minor repairs such as changing the oxygen sensors and engine oil seals, and I have kept up with the scheduled maintenance. It's unfortunate that Mitsubishi no longer produces this model, but I would certainly buy another if they brought it back with upgraded interior and body style. Overall, I highly recommend this SUV for its reliability and longevity.
Wilfrid Hessel 2025-02-02
I drive a steep and curvy mountain every day. Initially, I was a bit disappointed in the handling, but after replacing the tires from the dealer, WOW! What a difference. It handles very well for an SUV. The gas mileage for what I put it through is great at 17 mpg. As a contractor, one day I pulled a tandem dump truck out of a steep driveway on one of my job sites, saving me a wrecker bill. It was slow going in 2LLC, but it did the job. I am so proud to own this Montero. If you're considering a Montero, take it from me, change the tires and you'll be amazed. Edmunds.com, give it a test drive and see for yourself!