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
Coverage Areas
Regions Covered:
North America (primarily), Global specifications applicable
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Downloadable PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
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)
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
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2003-2005 models)
IIHS Frontal Offset Test:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Features
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
Infotainment
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
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Rear View Camera:
Available rear-view camera system on later models/trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable media players
Climate Control
HVAC System:
Manual or automatic climate control, rear-seat climate control vents
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
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)
Fluid Specifications
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
Known Issues
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
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors Heritage:
Founded in 1870, Mitsubishi is a Japanese conglomerate with a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust and reliable vehicles.
Model Evolution
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
Production Location:
Japan (Pajero), Global assembly plants
Production Years:
2000-2006 for the third generation
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Accolades:
Consistently recognized for its off-road prowess and durability in various automotive publications and tests.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by model year and specific components, but generally considered a robust platform with some common wear items.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets relevant EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the respective model years.
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