Families, off-road enthusiasts, general consumers seeking robust utility
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee
Key Features
Strengths:
Renowned off-road capability, durable construction, spacious interior, available V8 engine, available Super Select II 4WD system.
Model Positioning:
Represents Mitsubishi's commitment to robust SUVs with a blend of on-road comfort and significant off-road prowess.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Regions Covered:
Global (specific regional variations may apply, primarily North America based on typical distribution)
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Repair Service Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU/ECM diagnostics and programming), manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent, multi-link rear), steering system (hydraulic power steering), braking system (ABS, EBD, brake component replacement, hydraulic system bleeding), wheels and tires, chassis and frame.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrument panel and gauges, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers and washers, horn, audio system wiring, remote keyless entry, immobilizer system, body control module (BCM) diagnostics, fuse and relay locations.
Body:
Body panels (doors, hood, tailgate), interior trim, seats, glass and seals, bumpers, exterior trim, door hardware, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific trims), structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor, control panels.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid replacement, power steering fluid replacement, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, transfer case fluid change, belt inspection and replacement, battery service, tire rotation, wheel alignment checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation for OBD-II system, electrical system diagnostics using multimeter and oscilloscope, fuel system pressure testing, ignition system testing, emissions system diagnostics.
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., cylinder head removal/installation, piston ring replacement), transmission overhaul and repair, clutch replacement (manual transmission), brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms), steering rack repair, CV axle replacement, exhaust system repair/replacement, starter/alternator replacement, door lock actuator replacement, power window motor replacement.
Installation:
Accessory installation (e.g., tow hitch wiring), minor component upgrades, sensor replacement.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures. Includes detailed torque specifications, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Approx. 4,300 - 4,900 lbs (1950 - 2220 kg) depending on engine/trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5,700 - 6,200 lbs (2585 - 2812 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (for specific configurations, consult NHTSA archives)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Active Traction Control (Active Stability Control also available on some trims)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front-seat side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate) may be available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Not typically standard, may be an optional dealer-installed accessory.
Connectivity
Keyless Entry:
Remote keyless entry system standard on most trims.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with iridium-tip plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.8L:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with iridium-tip plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change if fluid is discolored or contaminated. Typically recommended every 45,000 - 60,000 miles (72,000 - 96,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for optimal performance.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Power Steering Fluid (Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Fluid Capacities
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 17.5 gallons (66 Liters)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, occasional HVAC blower motor issues, potential for ABS sensor failure, rear differential pinion seal leaks, automatic transmission shift quality degradation with age/mileage.
Diesel Specific Concerns:
Check for injector seal leaks, glow plug issues, and potential turbocharger wear if maintenance is neglected.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in vehicle manufacturing, with a significant focus on durable and capable SUVs and off-road vehicles, tracing roots back to the Pajero lineage.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation (1991-2000) followed by the Third Generation (2001-2006), this manual covers the early part of the Third Gen.
Third Gen Design:
Introduced a radical redesign with a unibody construction (monocoque chassis) for improved ride comfort and handling, moving away from the previous body-on-frame design.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Okazaki Plant)
Production Period:
2000 - 2006 (Third Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Acclaim:
The Montero (Pajero globally) has a strong heritage in off-road racing, including multiple victories in the Dakar Rally, underscoring its inherent capability.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
While specific year ratings vary, the Third Generation Montero was generally rated well for its off-road prowess and durability, though some reported average fuel economy.