Segment:
Mid-size SUV, Body-on-frame, Off-road capable
Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer
Offroad Capability:
Available Super Select II 4WD system, robust chassis, good ground clearance
Versatility:
Available in short and long wheelbase, multiple engine and transmission options, suitable for family and off-road use
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical (3.0L V6 6G72, 2.6L 4G54), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control Systems
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), Transfer Case, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Drive Shafts, Differentials
Suspension Steering:
Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Multi-link Rear Suspension, Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (on some models), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, Instrument Cluster, Power Accessories
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Chassis Components, Frame Repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-Ups, Belt Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Alignment Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Wiring Diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code Displacement:
6G72 3.0L SOHC V6
Engine Code Displacement Alt:
4G54 2.6L SOHC Inline-4 (Early models/specific markets)
Horsepower V6:
Approximately 143-155 hp (depending on year and exact configuration)
Torque V6:
Approximately 170-180 lb-ft (depending on year and exact configuration)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel, ignition, and emissions
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD, Full-time 4WD (Super Select II)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent Dexron-II/III
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 - 3.0 Liters
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 Liters (total capacity)
Wheelbase Swb:
Approx. 2,450 mm (96.5 in)
Wheelbase Lwb:
Approx. 2,725 mm (107.3 in)
Length Swb:
Approx. 4,320 mm (170.1 in)
Length Lwb:
Approx. 4,745 mm (186.8 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,800 - 2,100 kg (depending on configuration)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data available for this specific generation and model year, but generally considered robust for its era.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some trims/years
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most later models within this range
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, basic speaker configurations
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Seating:
Cloth or optional leather seating, available front bucket seats, folding rear bench
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (conventional oil), 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil), consult manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
70,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (for 6G72 V6 engines, crucial due to interference design)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for climate variations)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a green or red universal type (follow manual for specific mix ratio)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks, aging suspension bushings, potential for head gasket issues (though less common than some competitors), occasional electrical gremlins, wear on automatic transmission clutch packs.
Oil Filter Example:
Mitsubishi: MD068077, Fram: PH2, Bosch: 3323 (cross-reference recommended)
Air Filter Example:
Mitsubishi: MR188252, Fram: CA2561 (cross-reference recommended)
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history in off-road vehicles, with roots tracing back to the Jeep CJ-3B produced under license in the 1950s.
Montero Series:
The Montero (Pajero outside North America) entered its second generation in 1991, significantly evolving from its boxy predecessor with a more aerodynamic design and improved comfort, while retaining its legendary off-road prowess.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Pajero), with assembly in other locations for specific markets.
Offroad Acclaim:
The Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero platform has a storied history in off-road racing, including multiple wins in the Dakar Rally, underscoring its robust engineering and capability.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally praised for its off-road ability and durability, though fuel economy and on-road refinement were less competitive compared to some later unibody SUVs.
