Market Position:
The 2004 Mitsubishi Montero is a robust, body-on-frame SUV known for its off-road capability and versatility. Positioned as a durable, large SUV, it competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Competitors:
Key competitors include Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
Key Features:
Off-road prowess, available Super Select 4WD-II system, spacious interior, available V8 engine, towing capacity.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants
Transmission:
Service, repair, and troubleshooting for automatic and manual transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and Super Select 4WD-II system coverage
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone) and rear multi-link suspension repair
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, and parking brake service
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnosis
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation
Chassis:
Frame diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, and tank service
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler repair
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, and fan service
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, and distributorless ignition system (DIS) troubleshooting
Emission Control:
EVAP system, EGR system, and emissions diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, and ECU troubleshooting
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications, clearances, and alignment data
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits
Technical Bulletins:
Incorporates factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) where applicable
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF allows for quick locating of specific information
Engine Code:
6G75 (3.8L V6)
Engine Type:
3.8L SOHC V6, 24-valve
Bore X Stroke:
95.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Displacement:
3828 cc (3.8 L)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 L)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.2 quarts (4.9 L) with filter change
Recommended Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-II, GF-III
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR5EKPB-11 (Platinum or Iridium recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (INVECS-II)
Transmission Type:
No manual transmission offered for 2004 in most markets, though some regions may have variations.
Drivetrain Modes:
4WD (Part-time) and 4WD-II (Full-time with locking center differential)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF SP-III or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 L) for a complete refill
Length:
Approx. 187.4 inches (4760 mm)
Width:
Approx. 75.8 inches (1925 mm)
Height:
Approx. 73.2 inches (1860 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.3 inches (2725 mm)
Seating Capacity:
Up to 7 passengers (with optional third-row seating)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,000 lbs (2041 - 2268 kg), depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for 2004 model year in all configurations by NHTSA; generally performed well in tests of its era.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Active Traction Control (ATC)
Electronic Stability:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - referred to as Active Stability Control (ASC) by Mitsubishi
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium Rockford Fosgate audio system with subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors on some trims.
Auxiliary Input:
No standard auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Seats:
Leather-appointed seating available on higher trims, heated front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months under normal conditions (refer to manual for detailed conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
105,000 miles (168,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), especially if used for towing or off-roading.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron III ATF is often a suitable substitute, but consult manual).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and deionized water)
Common Issues:
Check for transmission shudder, rear differential leaks, exhaust manifold cracks, and potential ABS sensor issues.
Common Issues Detailed:
Some models may experience issues with the rear differential breather being too low, allowing water ingress. Clutch wear on manual transmissions (if applicable in certain markets). Occasional starter motor failure. The integrated sound system can be prone to failure or display issues.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, including experience in robust off-road vehicles and SUVs, stemming from its Pajero (Montero) lineage.
Generation:
This is the third generation of the Montero, introduced for the 2001 model year. It marked a significant shift with a unibody construction (though still robust) and independent front suspension.
Production Years:
2001-2006 for this generation in North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.