Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Sport Utility Truck
Key Selling Points:
Rugged off-road capability, body-on-frame construction, powerful engine options, available Super Select 4WD system.
Key Competitors Era:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Isuzu Rodeo.
Platform:
Based on the Pajero (Montero) platform, often sharing components with the Triton (L200) pickup truck.
Powertrain Flexibility:
Offered with various engine and transmission combinations catering to different needs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component testing, timing procedures, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (MPI), emission control systems.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics and component identification, sensor troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, shift linkage adjustment, clutch system service.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, hydraulic control systems, torque converter service, valve body diagnostics, fluid and filter replacement.
Drivetrain:
Transfer case (Super Select II) operation and service, front and rear differential service, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shafts.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (Double Wishbone), rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, coil springs, anti-roll bars, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment parameters.
Brakes:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (model dependent), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake service.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, structural components, anti-corrosion treatment.
Electrical System:
Lighting systems (headlamps, taillamps, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wiper system, horn, audio system wiring, fuse box diagrams, relay locations.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (R134a), heater core service, blower motor, HVAC controls, refrigerant charging procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid flush, differential fluid changes, transfer case fluid changes.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts for common symptoms, electrical circuit testing, engine performance diagnostics, ABS system fault finding.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for major component repairs, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Installation Procedures:
Guidance on installing new parts or components, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications for all major fasteners, engine tolerances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Schematics Included:
Full electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Detailed troubleshooting trees and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Family:
6G7 Series V6 and 4D5/4M4 Series Inline-4 Diesel
Gasoline Engine Options:
3.0L V6 (6G72), 3.5L V6 (6G74 - less common in this specific generation for some markets)
Diesel Engine Options:
2.5L Turbo Diesel (4D56), 2.8L Turbo Diesel (4M40), 3.2L Direct Injection Turbo Diesel (4M41 - later models/markets)
3.0L V6 (6G72) Power:
Approx. 175-181 hp (varies by market and tuning)
3.0L V6 (6G72) Torque:
Approx. 176-180 lb-ft (varies by market and tuning)
2.8L Turbo Diesel (4M40) Power:
Approx. 125-134 hp
2.8L Turbo Diesel (4M40) Torque:
Approx. 200-217 lb-ft
Gasoline Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Injection (MPI)
Diesel Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (DI) or Indirect Injection (IDI) with Turbocharging (depending on specific engine variant)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 inches) for 4-door models
Length:
Varies by body style, but around 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) for 4-door models
Width:
Approx. 1,775-1,800 mm (69.9-70.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,750-1,800 mm (68.9-70.9 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,800 - 2,100 kg (3,968 - 4,630 lbs) depending on configuration.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specifics.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Manual specifies specific fluid type and procedures.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 50,000-70,000 miles (80,000-110,000 km).
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 50,000 miles, then every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline, 15W-40 or 10W-40 for diesel. Manual will specify exact API/ACEA ratings and viscosity for each engine.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Likely Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super ATF SP-II or equivalent Dexron/Mercon compatible fluids.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust system components (due to environmental exposure), potentially diesel injection pump seals (on older diesels).
Diesel Specific Considerations:
Glow plug operation, potential for turbocharger wear on high-mileage units, specific fuel filter maintenance.
Mitsubishi Offroad Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in off-road motorsport, notably with the Dakar Rally-winning Pajero lineage, establishing a reputation for ruggedness and capability.
First Generation:
The Pajero Sport (also known as Montero Sport, Challenger) was introduced in 1996 as a more rugged, body-on-frame SUV derived from the Pajero, targeting a slightly different market segment focused on practicality and durability.
Global Markets:
Sold globally under various names, including Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (Australia, Europe), Mitsubishi Montero Sport (North America), Mitsubishi Challenger (Japan, certain SE Asian markets).