Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Pajero NM represents a robust, capable, and versatile SUV known for its off-road prowess and comfortable on-road manners. It competed in the premium SUV segment against vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Nissan Patrol, and Land Rover Discovery.
Competitors:
Key competitors during its production run included the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J90/J120), Nissan Patrol (Y61), Land Rover Discovery (Series II/LR3), Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Ford Explorer.
Features:
Renowned for its 'Super Select II' 4WD system, independent front suspension for improved on-road ride, robust chassis construction, choice of powerful V6 petrol engines and efficient turbo-diesel engines, and spacious interior.
Value:
This factory service manual is an indispensable resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Mitsubishi Pajero NM. It provides the official, detailed procedures and specifications used by Mitsubishi technicians, ensuring accurate and effective work, saving time and money compared to guesswork or inferior aftermarket guides.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (gasoline and diesel), ignition system, emission control systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (W5MBB), Automatic transmission (V5A51, V5M33), Transfer case (Super Select II), Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, hub bearings.
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), Rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, power steering system, steering column, steering rack/gearbox.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (ventilated discs, solid discs), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box diagrams, relay locations, wiring diagrams for all systems, ECU (Engine Control Unit), TCU (Transmission Control Unit), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags).
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, roof rack, chassis frame, underbody protection, towing information.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant circuits, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, controls.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement. Includes detailed procedures for major component repairs such as engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, and suspension component replacement.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific diagnostic and repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Engine 1:
3.0L 6G72 V6 SOHC MPI
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 133 kW (178 hp) @ 5000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2:
3.5L 6G74 V6 SOHC MPI (some markets)
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 150 kW (201 hp) @ 5000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 317 Nm (234 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Engine 2 Variant:
3.5L 6G74 V6 DOHC GDI (Galant VR-4 derived, performance variant)
Engine 2 Variant Power:
Approx. 180 kW (241 hp) @ 5500 rpm
Engine 2 Variant Torque:
Approx. 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 3750 rpm
Engine 3:
3.2L 4M41 I4 DI-D Turbo Diesel
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 121 kW (162 hp) @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 373 Nm (275 lb-ft) @ 2000 rpm
Fuel Type Petrol:
Unleaded Petrol (91 RON recommended for 3.0L, 95 RON for 3.5L GDI)
Fuel Type Diesel:
Diesel (low sulfur)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for petrol, Direct Injection (DI) with Common Rail for diesel.
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (W5MBB) on base models
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (V5A51) with electronically controlled modes
Transmission Type Optional 2:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (V5M33) on higher trims/later models
Drivetrain:
Full-time 4WD with electronically controlled center differential and locking function (Super Select II system allows shifting between 2H, 4H, 4HLC, 4LLC while moving).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA QUEEN ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific capacity and change intervals)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for specific capacity and change intervals)
Length:
Approx. 4710-4730 mm (185.4-186.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1800-1830 mm (70.9-72.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1855-1915 mm (73.0-75.4 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2780 mm (109.4 in)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 seats (optional third row)
Cargo Volume:
Substantial, with foldable rear seats providing ample space. Specific volume figures vary by configuration.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1900-2100 kg (4189-4630 lbs), depending on engine and trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2700-2800 kg (5952-6173 lbs).
Infotainment System:
Base models featured an AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims offered premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate), optional navigation systems, and in-dash CD changers. Touchscreen interfaces became more common in later models or facelifts.
Driver Assistance:
Key driver aids include ABS, EBD, and optional Traction Control (TCL) and Stability Control (ASTC - Active Stability and Traction Control) on some later models. Cruise control was standard on many variants.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards. Early models had basic audio connectivity. Later models or optional upgrades might have included auxiliary inputs or basic Bluetooth phone integration.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights were standard. Some higher trims or optional packages may have featured projector-beam headlights or HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlamps.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact intervals based on engine type.
Transmission Service Interval:
Automatic Transmission: 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-62,000 miles). Manual Transmission: 80,000-120,000 km (50,000-75,000 miles). Refer to manual for specific fluid and filter change recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 6G72 and 6G74 engines (if equipped with a belt), typically every 90,000-105,000 km (56,000-65,000 miles) or 5-7 years. The 4M41 diesel uses a timing chain. Crucial to confirm via manual.
Engine Oil Petrol:
API SJ or SL, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate). Capacity approx. 4.5-5.5L depending on engine.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CF-4 or CG-4, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity). Capacity approx. 7.5-8.0L.
Coolant:
Long-life ethylene glycol coolant. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-4) or equivalent. Capacity approx. 8-9L.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual). Capacity approx. 0.5-0.7L.
Common Problems:
Potential issues can include ABS sensor failures, minor electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on diesel models), rear differential whine, and radiator leaks. Certain transmission issues may arise with high mileage. Fuel injector issues on diesel engines. Early NM models may have had some issues with the transfer case actuator.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long and distinguished history in off-road vehicles, dating back to the original Mitsubishi JEEP in the 1930s. The Pajero (or Montero/Shogun) lineage began in 1982, establishing Mitsubishi as a leader in the SUV market.
Nm Generation:
The NM Pajero (introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year) was the third generation of the Pajero. It marked a significant departure from the previous generations with a more modern, monocoque body-on-frame construction (integrated body frame), independent front suspension, and advanced electronic 4WD systems.
Production Period:
The NM Pajero was produced from late 1999 through 2006. It was succeeded by the NP Pajero, which featured styling and mechanical updates.
Manufacturing:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other global locations.