🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Pajero

Generation Code:

NM

Production Years Covered:

2000, 2001, 2002

Platform Code:

NM/NP Pajero

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV, known for off-road capability and ruggedness.

Competitors:

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Nissan Patrol, Land Rover Discovery, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer.

Off Road Capability:

Robust chassis, advanced Super Select 4WD system (on many models), good ground clearance, capable suspension.

Reliability:

Generally considered a reliable vehicle with a strong reputation for durability, especially in off-road conditions.

Versatility:

Suitable for daily commuting, family transport, and serious off-road adventures.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America, Australia, Europe

Secondary Coverage:

Global regions with NM Pajero variants

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine control (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, transfer case

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear independent, coil springs, shock absorbers, sway bars), steering system (power steering), braking system (ABS, disc and drum configurations), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), instrument cluster, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power windows, power locks, mirrors, climate control electronics

Body And Interior:

Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system (air conditioning, heating, ventilation)

Maintenance:

Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, electrical circuit testing

Repair:

Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, component testing, specific repair techniques for major systems

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, emissions data

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, in-depth diagnostics, component repair, and complete system overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, enabling clear text and image reproduction.

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

6G72 (3.0L V6 SOHC MPI)

Engine Code 2:

6G74 (3.5L V6 SOHC MPI)

Engine Code 3:

4M41 (3.2L 4-cylinder DOHC DI-TC diesel)

Horsepower 3.0L V6:

Approximately 175-180 hp

Torque 3.0L V6:

Approximately 250-255 Nm

Horsepower 3.5L V6:

Approximately 195-200 hp

Torque 3.5L V6:

Approximately 314-320 Nm

Horsepower 3.2L Di-Tc Diesel:

Approximately 165-170 hp

Torque 3.2L Di-Tc Diesel:

Approximately 370-380 Nm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Direct Injection with Turbo Common Rail (DI-TC) for diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 RON minimum), Diesel fuel.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Gasoline:

5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Transmission Type Diesel:

5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Optional Features:

Super Select 4WD II (allows switching between 2WD and 4WD modes on the fly, including locked 4WD and low-range gearing).

Fluid Type Automatic:

Mitsubishi ATF-SPII (or equivalent DEXRON-II/III compatible fluid)

Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4700-4770 mm (depending on body style)

Width:

Approx. 1875-1895 mm

Height:

Approx. 1850-1910 mm (depending on roof rack)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2780 mm

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 seats (optional third row)

Cargo Volume:

Variable, expandable with folding rear seats.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1900-2100 kg

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2600-2750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Australian Ancap Rating:

Not rated for this specific generation, but generally built to robust standards for its class.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System standard on most models.

Traction Control:

Available on higher trims or with specific option packages.

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Generally not standard on this generation, might be available on later NP models or specific market variants.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags may be optional.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced impact-absorbing body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player. Some models may feature premium audio systems. Aux input or Bluetooth may not be standard.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system on some higher-trim models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Sensors:

Not typically standard on this generation, may be an aftermarket addition.

Bluetooth:

Not standard for this model year range. Often a dealer or aftermarket option.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact schedule.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement Gasoline:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement V6:

Critical: Typically every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km). Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Timing Belt Replacement Diesel:

Critical: Typically every 60,000-80,000 miles (100,000-130,000 km).

Engine Oil V6 Gasoline:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on climate).

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CF-4 or CG-4, SAE 15W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Coolant:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

DEXRON-II/III or equivalent ATF.

Timing Belt Wear:

Wear and tear on timing belts for V6 engines is a critical maintenance item. Regular replacement is essential to prevent catastrophic engine failure.

Automatic Transmission Shifting:

Some reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement in older automatic transmissions. Fluid changes and proper maintenance are key.

Diesel Injector Pump Issues:

Potential for issues with the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors in the 4M41 diesel engine, especially with contaminated fuel or lack of maintenance.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings and ball joints can lead to knocking noises and affect handling, common in older, higher-mileage SUVs.

Body Rust:

Depending on climate and maintenance, rust can affect the chassis, wheel arches, and lower body panels.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has a long history in automotive manufacturing, with a strong focus on robust and capable vehicles, particularly in the SUV and 4x4 segments.

Pajero Lineage:

The Pajero (known as Montero in North America and the Philippines, and Shogun in the UK) is a celebrated nameplate, known for its Dakar Rally success and pioneering role in the SUV market.

Nm Generation:

The NM Pajero, launched in 1999/2000, represented the third generation of the Pajero. It marked a significant shift with the adoption of a monocoque (unibody) construction with a built-in ladder frame, offering improved on-road comfort and refinement while retaining strong off-road capabilities. This generation introduced independent front suspension across the range.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

The Pajero nameplate has a strong heritage in off-road racing, including multiple victories in the Dakar Rally, highlighting its inherent capability.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings vary by specific model year and engine. Generally considered average to above average for its class and era, with some specific powertrain nuances to be aware of.

Iso Certification:

Manufacturing facilities typically adhere to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications for quality and environmental management.