🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Montero

Model Generation:

Third Generation (2000-2006)

Model Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Codes:

V73W, V75W, V78W

Chassis Designation:

PAJERO (JDM) / MONTERO (NA)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size SUV, Body-on-frame, Off-road capable

Target Audience:

Families, adventure seekers, off-road enthusiasts

Key Competitors:

Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee

Unique Selling Points:

Robust chassis, advanced Super Select 4WD system, comfortable ride, strong V6 engine options

Powertrain Options:

Reliable V6 engines, available manual and automatic transmissions

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and advanced Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems

Interior Features:

Spacious seating, available third-row seating, premium materials

Off Road Capability:

High ground clearance, robust suspension, locking differentials (on some trims)

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America (primarily), Global specifications applicable

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel, Engine Cooling, Engine Lubrication, Engine Ignition, Engine Exhaust, Engine Control System (ECU), Turbocharger (if applicable)

Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Driveshafts, Differentials, Clutch System

Chassis:

Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic and Parking), Wheel Alignment

Body And Electrical:

Body Exterior, Body Interior, Climate Control System (HVAC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting System, Audio System, Security System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)

Diagnostic And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspections and Replacements

Component Repair And Replacement:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuilds, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Adjustments:

Valve Clearance Adjustments, Parking Brake Adjustment, Clutch Adjustment

Specifications And Data:

Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Diagnostic Data

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Capability:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, including wiring diagrams and sensor data interpretation

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval

Resolution:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6)

Engine Displacement 1:

2972 cc (3.0 Liters)

Engine Configuration 1:

V6, SOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 177 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 1:

Approx. 208 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code 2:

6G75 (3.8L SOHC V6)

Engine Displacement 2:

3828 cc (3.8 Liters)

Engine Configuration 2:

V6, SOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 215 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 248 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Cooling Type:

Pressurized Liquid Cooling System

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter (V6 engines)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type 2:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive

Drivetrain Integration:

Available with Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD (SS4) system

4Wd System Description:

Super Select 4WD (SS4) offers 2H, 4H, 4HLC (with locked center differential), and 4LLC (with locked center differential and low range gearing)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Diamond ATF SP-II M or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 9.0 Liters (9.5 US Quarts) for complete fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.8 inches (4795 mm)

Width:

Approx. 73.6 inches (1870 mm)

Height:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 110.2 inches (2800 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.2 - 8.7 inches (208 - 220 mm) depending on configuration

Seating Capacity:

7 passengers (including optional third-row seating)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 15.0 cu ft (424 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 49.5 cu ft (1402 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,300 - 4,700 lbs (1950 - 2132 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,900 - 6,200 lbs (2676 - 2812 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for 2003-2005 models)

IIHS Frontal Offset Test:

Good

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, available premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate on higher trims)

Display:

Available in-dash navigation system with touchscreen display on select trims

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Rear View Camera:

Available rear-view camera system on later models/trims

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable media players

HVAC System:

Manual or automatic climate control, rear-seat climate control vents

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for extended intervals)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), inspect more frequently in dusty conditions

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium)

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-4 years

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)

Transfer Case And Differential Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)

Engine Oil Type:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5 or newer, SAE 5W-30 recommended

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF Dexron III/Mercon

Common Issue 1:

Rear Differential Breather Hose: Can become clogged or brittle, leading to differential seal leaks under extreme articulation.

Common Issue 2:

Exhaust Manifold Cracks: Early models, particularly the 3.5L V6, could develop cracks in the exhaust manifolds.

Common Issue 3:

ABS Sensor Issues: Wheel speed sensors for the ABS system can fail over time, triggering ABS warning lights.

Common Issue 4:

Transmission Shift Hesitation: Some automatic transmissions might exhibit occasional harsh shifts or hesitation.

Common Issue 5:

CV Joint Boots: Like many SUVs, CV joint boots can wear and tear, especially with off-road use, leading to joint damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors Heritage:

Founded in 1870, Mitsubishi is a Japanese conglomerate with a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust and reliable vehicles.

Montero Evolution:

The third-generation Montero (2000-2006) represented a significant redesign from its predecessors, featuring a unibody construction with integrated frame (monocoque chassis) for improved on-road manners and safety, while retaining impressive off-road capability.

Production Location:

Japan (Pajero), Global assembly plants

Production Years:

2000-2006 for the third generation

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

Consistently recognized for its off-road prowess and durability in various automotive publications and tests.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by model year and specific components, but generally considered a robust platform with some common wear items.

Emissions Standards:

Meets relevant EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the respective model years.