Vehicle Segment:
Full-size SUV, Body-on-frame
Key Competitors:
Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its robust chassis, sophisticated 4WD system (Super Select 4WD II), and capable suspension, making it a strong performer off-road.
Interior Space Comfort:
Offers generous passenger space, available third-row seating, and comfortable amenities, suitable for families and long journeys.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures, component testing, diagnosis for all engine variants
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor and actuator testing
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and diagnosis of the automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, and internal components
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and diagnosis of the manual transmission, including clutch system and gearbox components
Drivetrain 4Wd:
Operation, service, and repair of the Super Select 4WD II system, transfer case, and differentials
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Brake System:
Disc brake components, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rod ends, steering gear
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, components, diagnosis, and repair, including A/C refrigerant handling
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, glass, bumpers, trim, hinges, latches
Body Interior:
Seats, upholstery, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, seatbelts
Safety Systems:
Airbag system deployment and diagnosis, seatbelt pre-tensioners
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for all intervals
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing all major and minor components
Overhaul Rebuild:
Complete procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major sub-assemblies
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems and circuits
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical assemblies
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for required special tools
Depth Level:
Factory-level diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures
Engine Code Gasoline:
6G75 (3.8L V6 SOHC)
Engine Displacement Gasoline:
3797 cc (3.8 Liters)
Engine Configuration Gasoline:
V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower Gasoline:
200 hp @ 5000 rpm (approximate, may vary by market)
Torque Gasoline:
245 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (approximate, may vary by market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Emission Standard:
Meets relevant emissions standards for the model year (e.g., EPA, Euro IV)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual Transmission (available on certain trims/markets)
4Wd System Type:
Super Select 4WD II (with electronic center differential control and locking capabilities)
Transfer Case Modes:
2H, 4H, 4HLC (with locked center diff), 4LLC (with locked center diff and low range)
Length:
Approx. 188.8 - 190.4 inches (depending on trim/configuration)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 - 71.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 75.4 - 77.0 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.6 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 4,900 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 10.0 - 12.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 45.0 - 47.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 80.0 - 84.0 cu ft
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star (for models with side airbags, results vary by year and specific testing)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star (for models with side airbags, results vary by year and specific testing)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models tested, specific rating depends on year and configuration)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on some later models/trims
Airbags Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Optional:
Side-impact airbags for front occupants, available on higher trims
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD audio systems with multiple speaker configurations. Higher trims may offer premium audio or optional Rockford Fosgate sound system.
Navigation System:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking sensors on some models.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Typically not standard on this model, later models may have introduced more advanced connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs (check manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This model uses a timing *chain*, not a belt, which generally does not require routine replacement. Check manual for any specific inspection intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-II or GF-III certified 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 4.9 quarts (with filter change, check manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MITSUBISHI Genuine ATF SP-II M or SP-III
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Coolant:
MITSUBISHI Genuine Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives.
Common Complaints Engine:
Occasional reports of intake manifold gasket leaks, and potential for spark plug blow-out on earlier models with less robust thread inserts. Catalytic converter issues can arise if misfires are not addressed promptly.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Some owners report occasional harsh shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission, often linked to fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Common Complaints Suspension:
Front ball joints and tie rod ends can wear over time due to the vehicle's weight and off-road usage. Rear shock absorber leaks are also reported.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Window regulators can be a point of failure. Alternator issues are not uncommon with age and mileage.
Common Complaints Body:
Rust can form in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the rear hatch, especially in areas with road salt. Door seals and weatherstripping can degrade.
Mitsubishi SUV Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing capable SUVs, dating back to models like the Pajero (Montero's global counterpart), known for their off-road prowess.
Third Generation Designation:
The 2003 model year represents the introduction of the third generation (NS) Montero, a significant redesign featuring a new chassis, improved styling, and enhanced comfort and technology.
Assembly Location:
Primarily assembled in Japan (for North American market).
Production Years For Ns Generation:
2000-2006 (model years)
