1996 Mitsubishi Montero: common problems and reliability
29 owner complaints on record.
Most complaints are about engine and engine cooling. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 1996 Montero?The 1996 Mitsubishi Montero has 29 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and engine cooling and steering.
Safety record for the 1996 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 1996 Mitsubishi Montero vehicles (US, public record).
Is 1996 a good year for the Montero?
Across the 9 Montero model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2005) to 174 (2002). With 29 complaints, the 1996 Montero sits below the model's median of 40.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 1996 Montero
engine and engine cooling:engine
Campaign 00V311001VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES: MIRAGE MODEL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.5L ENGINES; MONTERO SPORT MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L ENGINES; AND MONTERO MODELS EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L ENGINES. THE BOLT SECURING THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY CAN BECOME LOOSE AND THE PULLEY COULD FALL OFF THE VEHICLE.
unknown or other
Campaign 98V205000VEHICLE 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.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is generally positive, with the Montero and Montero Sport widely regarded as reliable, durable, and offering strong value, particularly in the used market.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Montero. See the full Montero owner picture and every model year.
Other Montero model years
Compare every Montero year side by side to see how 1996 ranks against the rest.
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