Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (200 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2006
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is generally positive, with the Montero and Montero Sport widely regarded as reliable, durable, and offering strong value, particularly in the used market.
8 problems reported (5 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentUnderpowered engine performance (especially in gasoline and older non-turbo diesel variants)
Sluggish acceleration, struggles on highways.
- RecurrentFirm/stiff ride quality
Described as "tagtag" or uncomfortable, especially compared to crossover competitors.
- RecurrentTransmission overheating/hunting (older automatic models)
Gear hunting, getting stuck in lower gears on inclines.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentOutdated infotainment and technology
Low-resolution screens, basic features, wired connectivity only.
- RecurrentHigh fuel consumption (gasoline models and older generations)
Reports of 18-20 MPG (13-14 L/100km) or worse, particularly in V6 models.
- IsolatedCooling system failures
Radiator issues leading to overheating, as noted in specific owner troubleshooting posts.
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins and parasitic battery drain
Issues with power locks, accessories, and batteries going dead, as noted in older model troubleshooting.
- IsolatedInterior quality and noise
Creaky interiors over time, excessive wind noise at highway speeds (110 km/h+).
The version owners recommend
For newer models (Gen 3/3.5, circa 2016-2020+), the diesel automatic variants (e.g., GLS Premium, GT) with the 2.4L turbo (4N15) and 8-speed automatic are preferred for their balance of fuel efficiency and modern features. For older generations (Gen 2, circa 2008-2015), the VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) diesel variants are noted for more power, though the non-VGT GLX is acknowledged as more fuel-efficient. The Gen 2.5 with a locking rear differential is mentioned as a desirable "holy grail" for off-road enthusiasts. There is a strong consensus to avoid manual transmissions for daily driving convenience.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Fortuner, Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Land Cruiser/Prado, Nissan Terra and Ford Everest.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is generally positive, with the Montero and Montero Sport widely regarded as reliable, durable, and offering strong value, particularly in the used market. Long-term owner reports consistently praise the vehicles for their longevity, with examples cited reaching 150,000 to over 220,000 miles (approximately 241,000 to 354,000 km) with proper maintenance. The platform is described as "tried and tested," with abundant and affordable parts, making it easy and cost-effective to maintain. The diesel variants, particularly the 2.4L turbo (4N15) paired with an 8-speed automatic, are noted for good fuel efficiency in their class (e.g., 7-9 km/L in city traffic, 10-13 km/L on the highway). Off-road capability is frequently highlighted as a key strength. Criticisms are present but often framed as trade-offs for the value and durability. These include a firm or "stiff" ride quality, underpowered engines (especially in older or non-turbo variants), outdated interior technology, and higher fuel consumption in gasoline models and older generations. A historical controversy regarding Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA) is mentioned but is characterized as a debunked myth attributed to driver error, with the manufacturer having implemented additional safety features like Brake Override Systems in response.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a high-value, durable alternative to more expensive segment leaders. It is frequently compared to the Toyota Fortuner, with owners acknowledging the Fortuner's legendary reliability and higher resale value but favoring the Montero for better feature content, more comfortable tech inclusions, and a lower purchase price, especially on the used market. Compared to unibody crossovers like the Santa Fe, Sorento, or CX-8, the Montero is recognized as a more capable off-road vehicle due to its body-on-frame construction but is criticized for a less refined on-road ride and older interior design. Against the Ford Everest, the Montero is seen as less technologically advanced but potentially more reliable and cheaper to maintain long-term. It is consistently described as a "proven" and "easy to maintain" workhorse.
Recommended configurations
Diesel engine over gasoline for fuel efficiency and torque. Automatic transmission is strongly recommended over manual for daily use. All-wheel drive (4x4) is recommended for off-road capability and resale value. For older automatic models, installing an aftermarket transmission cooler is advised to prevent overheating and gear hunting, especially during uphill climbs. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is universally recommended for used units.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a durable, capable, and practical family SUV with proven long-term reliability, especially in the PHP 600,000-1,000,000 (approx. $10,700-$17,800 USD) used market. Ideal for families, those needing space for 7 passengers, and owners who value low maintenance costs and parts availability. Suitable for light to moderate off-roading. Not recommended for buyers prioritizing a plush ride, cutting-edge technology, spirited acceleration, or maximum fuel economy in city traffic. Buyers should test drive extensively to evaluate ride comfort and power adequacy. For used purchases, focus on finding a clean, well-maintained unit over a specific model year, as the platform is aging but durable.
Remarks
Owner discussions cover multiple generations and markets, including the Philippines, North America, and the Middle East, leading to varied feedback on specific engines (e.g., 4N15 diesel vs. 3.8L V6 gasoline). The "Montero Sport" is often discussed interchangeably with the "Montero" or "Pajero" in different regions. The platform's age is a double-edged sword: it benefits from proven reliability and part availability but suffers from dated aesthetics and technology compared to newer rivals. The historical SUA controversy, while extensively addressed by the manufacturer and third-party investigations, remains a point of discussion in some owner communities but is not cited as a recurring mechanical fault in the provided data. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and troubleshooting posts.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2002. Years to avoid: 2002, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Mitsubishi Montero years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 4 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2005 | 1 | 0 | steering |
| 2004 | 5 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2002 | 174 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2000 | 56 | 2 | structure |
| 1999 | 40 | 2 | suspension |
| 1998 | 80 | 4 | suspension |
| 1997 | 98 | 2 | engine and engine cooling |
| 1996 | 29 | 2 | engine and engine cooling |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices18 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2004 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V428000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
2004 · fuel system, gasoline:storagecampaign 04V319000
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS FULL AND THE VEHICLE IS PARKED FACING FORWARD ON AN UPWARD SLOPE, THE FUEL TANK LEVELING VALVE MAY NOT MAINTAIN PROPER SEALING IN THE EVENT THE FUEL EXPANDS FROM A RISE IN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE.
2004 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V095000
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHTS AS STATED ON THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL ARE IN ERROR.
2002 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 01V254001
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE ACCUMULATOR THAT IS INSTALLED ON THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE BOOSTER MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, THIS COULD RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF THE PRESSURIZED NITROGEN GAS FROM INSIDE THE ACCUMULATOR.
2002 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V428000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
2002 · fuel system, gasoline:storagecampaign 04V319000
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS FULL AND THE VEHICLE IS PARKED FACING FORWARD ON AN UPWARD SLOPE, THE FUEL TANK LEVELING VALVE MAY NOT MAINTAIN PROPER SEALING IN THE EVENT THE FUEL EXPANDS FROM A RISE IN THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE.
2000 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V428000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
2000 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V035000
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
1999 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V428000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
1999 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V035000
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
1998 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 04V428000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
1998 · unknown or othercampaign 98V205000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ACCESSORY CARGO MATS IN THE THIRD-SEAT AND CARGO AREA. THIS CARGO MAT INTERFERES WITH THE LATCHING INTEGRITY OF THE FOLDING THIRD SEATS.
1998 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 98V220000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE FRONT BRAKE LINES CAN DEVELOP PIN HOLES DUE TO CHAFFING AGAINST THE EDGE OF THE PASS-THROUGH HOLE IN THE INNER FENDER.
1998 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V035000
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 1998-2000 Montero vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
1997 · unknown or othercampaign 98V205000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ACCESSORY CARGO MATS IN THE THIRD-SEAT AND CARGO AREA. THIS CARGO MAT INTERFERES WITH THE LATCHING INTEGRITY OF THE FOLDING THIRD SEATS.
3 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
3.8 i V6 24V MIVEC
3.8L 6-cylinder · 250 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2002–2006