Segment:
Full-size SUV, Body-on-frame
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, families requiring robust and capable utility vehicle
Key Competitors 2006:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover LR3.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its off-road prowess with available Super Select II 4WD system offering multiple modes (2H, 4H, 4HLc, 4LLc).
Engine Power:
Strong V8-like performance from the standard 6G75 MIVEC V6 engine.
Interior Space:
Spacious interior, often with a third-row seating option for larger families.
Build Quality:
Robust construction, typical of Japanese body-on-frame SUVs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, emissions control, manual and automatic transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and EBD), wheel bearings, tire specifications.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, body control modules, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams for all major systems.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, weatherstripping, chassis and frame.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation (OBD-II), electrical circuit diagnosis.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component repair and replacement, body panel repair.
Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine, transmission, and transfer case.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including specific test procedures for sensors, actuators, and control modules. Access to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Repair Detail Level:
Comprehensive, step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, alignment procedures, and diagrams.
Electrical Diagrams:
Full vehicle wiring diagrams, including component locations, connector pinouts, and circuit descriptions.
Engine Type:
SOHC V6 with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control)
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3828 cc)
Horsepower:
250 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 (can use higher for marginal improvement)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.7 Liters (10.2 US Quarts)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 Liters (5.3 US Quarts) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Spark Plug Type:
Iridium (e.g., NGK IZFR5N)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A58)
Transmission Type:
None for 2006 US market (Manual was available in some global markets)
Drivetrain System:
Super Select II 4WD (Electronic control with 2H, 4H, 4HLc, 4LLc modes)
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (with limited-slip additive if applicable, refer to manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Atf Type:
Diamond ATF-SP II M or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Five Stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
Five Stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (for models tested)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:
Standard
Airbags Front:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional/Standard on higher trims (Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (rare).
Parking Sensors:
Optional (rear)
Auxiliary Input:
Typically not standard on base models, may be available on higher trims or via aftermarket additions.
HVAC System:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control depending on trim level. Rear HVAC outlets often present.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, especially under severe use.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (Iridium plugs).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MS-59933 or Dexron II/III compatible (refer to manual)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water/Washer Fluid Mixture
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension bushings due to weight and off-road use. Catalytic converters can sometimes fail.
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional reports of minor electrical issues, often related to grounding or aging wiring harness components.
Transmission Shifting:
While generally robust, some owners have reported occasional rough shifting; fluid and filter changes are critical.
Rust:
As with many body-on-frame SUVs of this era, rust can be an issue in regions with heavy road salt use, particularly on the frame, exhaust, and brake lines.
Mitsubishi SUV Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing capable off-road vehicles, dating back to models like the Pajero (Montero in many markets).
Third Generation:
The 2006 model year represents the third generation of the Montero (NS platform), which debuted for the 2000 model year and received a significant refresh for 2003.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a blend of on-road comfort and serious off-road capability, a distinction from more car-like crossover SUVs.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (and assembly in other regions).
Years In Us Market:
1997-2006 (as Montero; Montero Sport was also sold concurrently).
