Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Off-road vehicle
Primary Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder
Key Selling Points:
Robust off-road capability (Super Select 4WD), comfortable ride, durable construction, spacious interior, reliable engine options
Body Styles Available:
2-door (short wheelbase), 4-door (long wheelbase)
Drivetrain Options:
RWD, 4WD (with Super Select II system)
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (all variants)
Engine Management System:
Yes (ECU, sensors, actuators, diagnostics)
Fuel System:
Yes (injection, pumps, lines, filters)
Ignition System:
Yes (coils, plugs, control)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan)
Exhaust System:
Yes (manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes
Transfer Case:
Yes (Super Select 4WD system)
Drivetrain Axles:
Yes (front, rear, differentials)
Suspension Front:
Yes (independent, torsion bar/coil spring)
Suspension Rear:
Yes (multi-link, coil spring)
Steering System:
Yes (power steering, components)
Brake System:
Yes (front discs, rear drums/discs, ABS)
Electrical System:
Yes (battery, charging, starting, lighting)
Body And Chassis:
Yes (frame, body panels, interior)
HVAC System:
Yes (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Safety Systems:
Yes (airbags, seatbelts, ABS)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Yes (OBD-II, DTC codes)
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks)
Engine Overhaul:
Yes (complete rebuild procedures)
Transmission Rebuild:
Yes
Brake Replacement:
Yes (pads, rotors, calipers, lines)
Suspension Repair:
Yes (component replacement, alignment specs)
Electrical Diagnostics:
Yes (wiring diagrams, component testing)
Bodywork Repair:
Yes (panel replacement, trim removal)
HVAC Repair:
Yes (compressor, evaporator, heater core)
Troubleshooting Guides:
Yes (fault isolation, symptom-based diagnostics)
Special Tool Requirements:
Yes (identification of required tools)
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including ECU parameter analysis and fault code interpretation
Repair Instructions:
Detailed step-by-step procedures with torque specifications and component clearances
Schematic Diagrams:
Extensive electrical wiring diagrams and vacuum/fluid routing schematics
Engine Type:
3.0L SOHC V6 (24-valve)
Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 76 mm
Horsepower Peak:
177 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate, varies by market and tuning)
Torque Peak:
245 Nm @ 3750 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation)
Engine Type 2:
2.4L SOHC Inline-4 (16-valve)
Horsepower Peak 2:
133 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque Peak 2:
200 Nm @ 2500 rpm (approximate)
NHTSA Rating Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for this year/model by NHTSA in a comprehensive manner, but generally considered robust.
IIHS Rating:
Not rated by IIHS for this specific model year.
ABS:
Standard on most trims (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Not typically available for this year.
Airbags Passenger:
Standard (on most trims)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure and chassis design for enhanced rollover resistance
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (check specific type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Filter replacement recommended.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 3 years.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for severe use.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended (check manual for climate variations)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 4.8 liters (5.1 US qts) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity I4:
Approx. 4.3 liters (4.5 US qts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQUEEN J3 or equivalent ATF SP-III
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Front suspension ball joint wear, leading to clunking noises and potential alignment issues.
Common Issue 2:
Rear differential pinion seal leaks.
Common Issue 3:
Radiator leaks, particularly at the plastic end tanks.
Common Issue 4:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.
Common Issue 5:
Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, causing shifting problems.
Common Issue 6:
ABS sensor failure leading to ABS warning light.
Mitsubishi SUV Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history in the SUV segment, dating back to the original Pajero (the Montero's global counterpart) introduced in 1982, which pioneered many off-road capabilities.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation of the Pajero/Montero was introduced in late 1991 for the 1992 model year, continuing its body-on-frame construction and off-road prowess.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 1998 model year typically represents a later stage of the second generation, potentially incorporating minor styling updates or feature enhancements from earlier refreshes.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily produced in Japan (Okazaki Plant).
Production Years Second Gen:
1991-2000
Off Road Awards:
The Pajero/Montero platform has historically received acclaim in off-road racing, notably winning the Dakar Rally multiple times, reflecting its robust design.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this era of Mitsubishi vehicles varied; while generally considered capable, some models experienced issues detailed in maintenance sections.
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet relevant emissions standards for the North American market in 1998.
