🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Montero

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

V73W, V75W, V77W, V78W

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV, body-on-frame

Target Audience:

Off-road enthusiasts, families requiring utility and ruggedness

Competitors:

Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer

Platform:

Third-generation Montero (NM/NP platform)

Off Road Capability:

Available Super Select II 4WD system with locking center differential, low-range gearing

📋 Manual Details

Countries:

Global (Primarily North America, Europe, Asia)

Trim Levels:

All trim levels (e.g., XLS, Limited, ES, LS)

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drive shafts, differentials (front, rear, center), axles

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), parking brake

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting system, interior/exterior electronics, body control module (BCM), multiplex communication system

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (manual and automatic climate control)

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, connector pinouts

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

6G72

Engine Type 1:

3.5L SOHC V6 MIVEC

Displacement 1:

3497 cc

Horsepower 1:

200 hp @ 5000 rpm (V6 MIVEC)

Torque 1:

235 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (V6 MIVEC)

Bore X Stroke 1:

91.1 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.0:1

Fuel Induction 1:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code 2:

6G75

Engine Type 2:

3.8L SOHC V6 MIVEC (some markets/later models)

Displacement 2:

3828 cc

Horsepower 2:

215-220 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (V6 MIVEC)

Torque 2:

255-260 lb-ft @ 3750-4000 rpm (V6 MIVEC)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Type:

Electric, in-tank

Fuel Pressure:

Approximately 45-58 psi (310-400 kPa)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (W5A580)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (N7M-something, less common)

4Wd System:

Available Super Select II 4WD system

Transfer Case:

2-speed transfer case with lockable center differential

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MITSU-SPEC ATF-SP-III (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 9.6 US quarts (9.1 liters) for complete refill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

186.6 inches (4740 mm)

Width:

73.8 inches (1875 mm)

Height:

72.0 inches (1829 mm) (with roof rails)

Wheelbase:

109.7 inches (2785 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.4 inches (213 mm)

Curb Weight:

4,500 - 4,800 lbs (2041 - 2177 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

6,000 - 6,200 lbs (2722 - 2812 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 45.7 cu ft (1294 liters)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 87.5 cu ft (2478 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars (Front and Rear Passenger)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCL)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, available side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with subwoofer

Navigation:

Available factory navigation system (early generation)

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Phone Integration:

Limited to aftermarket Bluetooth kits for most 2003 models

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal conditions) - Consult manual for exact recommendation

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium plugs

Timing Belt Replacement:

Refer to specific engine variant and mileage, often around 75,000-105,000 miles (120,000-170,000 km) for 6G72/6G75 engines (check manual for exact interval as it's a belt-driven OHC engine)

Engine Oil Type:

API SL or SM, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Power Steering Fluid:

MITSU-SPEC PSF (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON ATF)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Common Problems:

Sunroof drain tube blockages leading to water ingress, front axle CV joint wear (especially with off-road use), ABS sensor issues, occasional transmission solenoid issues

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Summary:

Mitsubishi has a long history in producing robust and capable SUVs, with the Pajero/Montero line being a flagship model known for its off-road prowess and durability since its introduction in 1982.

Generation Introduction:

The 2003 model year represents the third generation (NM/NP) of the Montero, launched for the 2000 model year, featuring a unibody construction (monocoque chassis) for improved on-road comfort and safety compared to previous body-on-frame designs.

Production Location:

Gifu Prefecture, Japan (Pajero Manufacturing Co., Ltd.)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

The Montero line is renowned for its consistent performance in demanding off-road competitions and expeditions worldwide, reinforcing its rugged reputation.