Segment:
Mid-size body-on-frame SUV, known for off-road capability and ruggedness
Key Competitors 2004:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer
Platform:
Ladder frame construction providing robust durability
Drivetrain:
Available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or Mitsubishi's advanced Super Select 4WD II system
Utility:
Enables owners and technicians to perform all maintenance and repair tasks
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case, drivetrain components (driveshafts, axles, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent, Super Select 4WD II), steering system, brake system (ABS, EBD), wheel and tire specifications
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, climate control system, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body And Frame:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, seats, structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake component replacement, suspension component repair, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel replacement, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, specific sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring harness continuity checks
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Accuracy:
Factory-specifications, torque values, clearances, and procedures
Engine Option 1 Code:
6G72
Engine Option 1 Type:
3.0L SOHC V6 MIVEC
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
2972 cc (181.4 ci)
Engine Option 2 Code:
6G74
Engine Option 2 Type:
3.5L SOHC V6 MIVEC
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3497 cc (213.4 ci)
Engine Option 3 Code:
6G75
Engine Option 3 Type:
3.8L SOHC V6 MIVEC
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
3828 cc (233.6 ci)
3.5L V6 (6G74) Horsepower:
200 hp @ 5000 rpm
3.5L V6 (6G74) Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
3.8L V6 (6G75) Horsepower:
230 hp @ 5250 rpm
3.8L V6 (6G75) Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR (where applicable)
Transmission Option 1:
5-speed manual transmission (often paired with the 3.5L V6)
Transmission Option 2:
4-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-II with AI-Sport Mode, often paired with 3.0L and 3.5L V6)
Transmission Option 3:
5-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-II with AI-Sport Mode, often paired with 3.8L V6)
Transfer Case:
Super Select 4WD II system (available on higher trims), offering 2H, 4H, 4HLC (Locking Center Differential), 4LLC (Low Range with Locking Center Differential)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2780 mm (109.4 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4730-4800 mm (186.2-189.0 inches) depending on trim/body style
Width:
Approximately 1870-1880 mm (73.6-74.0 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1860-1890 mm (73.2-74.4 inches) depending on roof rack/suspension
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1900-2100 kg (4189-4630 lbs)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
5-star rating (driver and passenger) in frontal crash tests for models equipped with side airbags.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags; available side-impact airbags (curtain and/or torso)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate on some trims)
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Climate Control:
Manual climate control and optional automatic climate control
Auxiliary Inputs:
Typically no standard auxiliary audio input on factory systems of this era; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe service); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal service) - consult manual for specific oil type recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first (automatic and manual transmissions) - always use specified fluid.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles thereafter.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ACEA A2/A3; viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact specification based on engine code.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DiaQueen ATF-SP III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil. Consult manual for specific viscosity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Issues List:
Sunroof drain tube blockages leading to interior water leaks, power steering pump leaks, potential ABS sensor issues, catalytic converter failure (depending on maintenance and emissions regulations).
Maintenance Impact:
Adherence to the manual's maintenance schedule significantly mitigates common issues and prolongs vehicle life.
Mitsubishi Offroad Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long and successful history in off-road racing, notably the Dakar Rally with the Pajero, influencing the Montero's design and capability.
Third Generation Focus:
The 2004 model is part of the third generation (1999-2006), which introduced a monocoque-inspired body-on-frame construction for improved on-road handling and a more integrated chassis.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Pajero) and some models assembled in other locations for specific markets.
Offroad Capability Recognition:
Consistently recognized by automotive publications and enthusiasts for its robust off-road capabilities and durable platform.
Consumer Satisfaction Notes:
While specific awards for 2004 are scarce, the Montero line generally received favorable reviews for its utility and off-road prowess, though interior refinement and fuel economy were often cited as areas for improvement compared to unibody SUVs.