Model:
Montero iO / Pajero Pinin
Market Name:
Montero iO (North America), Pajero Pinin (Europe, Asia)
Generation Designation:
First Generation (H60/H70 Series)
Chassis Code:
H61W, H62W, H71W, H76W, H77W
Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, small families, urban adventurers
Competitors 2000 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Kia Sportage, Ford EcoSport (early models)
Distinguishing Features:
Compact size, unique styling, available 4WD system (Super Select 4WD-i on some variants), off-road capability for its class
Engine:
Full Engine Overhaul, Diagnostics, Tuning, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed INVECS-II), Clutch, Drivetrain, Transfer Case, Differential (Front/Rear)
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc/Drum Brakes (depending on trim), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Parking Brake
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Sensors, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, Power Accessories
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension, Power Steering System, Steering Column, Wheel Alignment
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Components, Frame, Interior Trim, Seat Adjustments, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Heating Ac:
HVAC System, Air Conditioning Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Climate Control
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-based Diagnostics, Electrical System Testing
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Description 1:
1.8L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (GDI - Gasoline Direct Injection)
Horsepower 1:
135 PS (133 hp; 99 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1:
174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Engine Description 2:
1.5L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4
Horsepower 2:
95 PS (94 hp; 70 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2:
130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for 4A31
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Compression Ratio 4A31:
12.0:1
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (INVECS-II)
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear-wheel drive), 4WD (Full-time 4WD or Selectable 4WD)
Transfer Case:
Center differential with lock (on some 4WD models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQUEEN ATF SP-III
Length:
3845 mm (151.4 in)
Height:
1610 mm (63.4 in) (approx.)
Wheelbase:
2280 mm (89.8 in)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 295 Liters (10.4 cu ft)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 1200 kg (2646 lbs)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (refer to vehicle placard)
Frontal Crash Test Rating:
Refer to specific NHTSA/IIHS tests for the model year and market; generally fair for its era.
Side Impact Crash Test Rating:
Refer to specific NHTSA/IIHS tests for the model year and market.
ABS:
Standard or Optional depending on trim level and market
Traction Control:
Optional on some higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags (Standard), Optional Side Airbags on some models
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 4A31:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium type recommended)
Engine Oil Type 4A31:
API SN or SP, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific GDI recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity 4A31:
4.3 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based, P-HOAT formulation)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems Early Models:
Occasional minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential for GDI system carbon buildup (requiring cleaning), minor suspension wear on high-mileage units.
Common Problems Electrical:
Failing power window motors, intermittent sensor issues (e.g., ABS sensor).
Parent Company:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Heritage Focus:
Known for its rugged SUVs like the Pajero/Montero and Lancer Evolution performance sedans.
Introduction Year:
1998 (globally)
Design Philosophy:
A compact, stylish, and more urban-friendly interpretation of the traditional SUV, bridging the gap between a hatchback and a larger SUV.
Facelift Year:
2000 (minor updates for 2000-2002 models)
Production Period:
1998 - 2007
Production Location:
Japan (Okazaki Plant)
