1997 Mitsubishi Montero: common problems and reliability
98 owner complaints on record.
Most complaints are about engine and engine cooling. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 1997 Montero?The 1997 Mitsubishi Montero has 98 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and engine cooling and service brakes.
Safety record for the 1997 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 1997 Mitsubishi Montero vehicles (US, public record).
Is 1997 a good year for the Montero?
Across the 9 Montero model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2005) to 174 (2002). With 98 complaints, the 1997 Montero sits above 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 1997 Montero
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.
service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Campaign 98V220000VEHICLE 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.
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 1997 ranks against the rest.
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