🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Montero

Model Alias:

Pajero (export markets)

Platform Code:

V70 Series

Generation Codes:

Second Generation (1990-2006), with specific focus on facelifted V70 models

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size, body-on-frame SUV, positioned as a capable off-road and family vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer/Blazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.

Strengths:

Robust off-road capability (Super Select 4WD II), powerful V6 engines, spacious interior, durable construction.

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a reliable and capable SUV for diverse driving conditions.

Usefulness:

Essential for owners and independent mechanics looking to perform accurate repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

2000, 2001, 2002

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (MPI/GDI), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission operation, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission operation, hydraulics, electronic controls, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Super Select 4WD II system, transfer case operation, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension Front:

Independent front suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake fluid, hydraulic components, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body repair.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, common fault diagnosis.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link coil spring rear suspension, shock absorbers, trailing arms, panhard rod.

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston ring installation, bearing replacement, complete engine overhaul procedures.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter replacement (automatic).

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding brake system, ABS component replacement.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), steering rack repair/replacement, wheel alignment procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical circuits, starter and alternator testing.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), system flushing.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, dent repair, glass replacement, door and latch adjustment.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complex component overhaul and diagnostics. Includes detailed specifications and torque values.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text within PDF for easy keyword lookup.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gasoline:

6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6), 6G74 (3.5L SOHC/DOHC V6)

Engine Description 3.0L:

3.0-liter SOHC V6 (SOHC 12-valve)

Engine Description 3.5L:

3.5-liter SOHC V6 (SOHC 24-valve) - Common for 2001-2002 models in North America

Horsepower 3.0L:

Approximately 177-180 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm

Torque 3.0L:

Approximately 245-250 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm

Horsepower 3.5L:

Approximately 200-215 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm

Torque 3.5L:

Approximately 260-275 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for some 3.5L variants.

Fuel:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, higher octane may be specified for certain engines/conditions)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent green/yellow coolant)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Service SG, SH, or SJ)

Oil Capacity Approx:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 US quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (V5M31)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (V4A51)

Drivetrain Options:

Part-time 4WD or Full-time 4WD (Super Select 4WD II system)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II M or SP-III (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approximately 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 109.7 inches (2785 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

Approximately 4200 - 4600 lbs (1905 - 2087 kg), depending on configuration

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Limited (often removed or folded)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 40-50 cu ft

Towing Capacity Approx:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) (may vary by market and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star (2000-2001 models, specific tests varied by year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star (2000-2001 models, specific tests varied by year)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags, if applicable)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Active Skid Control (ASC) on some models

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional side-impact airbags available on some trims/years

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced chassis and body structure designed for SUV application.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with cassette tape. Premium audio systems available on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system (less common and dated by modern standards).

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control.

Auxiliary Input:

Typically no factory auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions are common.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, optional power sunroof, optional power adjustable front seats.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years for interference engines (V6 engines are typically interference).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron II/III compatible

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil

Common Problem 1:

Timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals (interference engine).

Common Problem 2:

Oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gaskets.

Common Problem 3:

Automatic transmission shifting issues or failure to engage drive gears (often related to fluid degradation or solenoid issues).

Common Problem 4:

Cracked exhaust manifolds on V6 engines due to heat cycles.

Common Problem 5:

Wear in front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to off-road use or age.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi SUV Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a long history of producing robust off-road vehicles, starting with the Pajero/Montero in 1976.

Generation Context:

This period (2000-2002) represents the latter part of the second generation (NH/NJ/NK Series in some markets), which received significant updates for the 1997 model year including styling and powertrain enhancements.

Facelift Details:

Facelifts during the second generation often included updated front/rear styling, interior trim, and powertrain refinements, such as the introduction of the 3.5L V6.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Pajero) and some units assembled in other locations globally.

Production Years Full:

Second Generation: 1990-2006 (with various facelifts and updates)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Reputation:

Consistently recognized for its excellent off-road capabilities, often compared favorably to more specialized off-road vehicles.

Durability Awards:

While specific awards may vary, the Montero/Pajero line is generally regarded as a durable and reliable platform, particularly in its body-on-frame construction.