1990 Mitsubishi Montero

Introduction: The 1990 Mitsubishi Montero is a compact SUV that offers impressive off-road capabilities and a comfortable interior. It came with two engine options, a 3.0L V6 and a 2.6L inline-4, and two transmission options, a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. The Montero is known for its ruggedness, reliability, and spacious cabin, but it also has a few common issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

• 3.0L V6
  • Head Gasket Failure: Description: Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and loss of coolant. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: N/A
  • Timing Belt Failure: Description: Symptoms include a ticking noise from the engine, rough idling, and loss of power. Solution: Replace the timing belt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: N/A
• 2.6L Inline-4
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Description: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, stalling, and poor fuel economy. Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: N/A
• Fuel Injector Failure: Description: Symptoms include misfiring, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy. Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: N/A

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slipping: Description: Symptoms include delayed gear shifts, slipping out of gear, and shuddering during acceleration. Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+ Recalls: N/A
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Failure: Description: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, slipping, and burning smell. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+ Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Failure: Description: Symptoms include excessive bouncing, steering instability, and premature tire wear. Solution: Replace the front suspension struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: N/A
• Rear Suspension Spring Failure: Description: Symptoms include sagging rear end, decreased load capacity, and rough ride. Solution: Replace the rear suspension springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Description: Symptoms include dim or flickering lights, electrical component malfunctions, and difficulty starting the engine. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: N/A
• Battery Terminal Corrosion: Description: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, electrical glitches, and loose battery terminals. Solution: Clean the battery terminals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Rust: Description: Symptoms include visible rust spots on the body panels, frame, and suspension components. Solution: Rust treatment or replacement of affected parts. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the extent of the rust Recalls: N/A
• Trim Pieces Falling Off: Description: Symptoms include loose or missing trim pieces on the exterior, such as side moldings and bumper covers. Solution: Reattach or replace the trim pieces. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks: Description: Symptoms include visible cracks on the dashboard. Solution: Repair or replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: N/A
• Door Lock Actuator Failure: Description: Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking the doors. Solution: Replace the door lock actuator(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: N/A

Summary: Overall, the 1990 Mitsubishi Montero is a reliable and capable SUV with a few common issues to watch out for. The most severe issues are head gasket failure on the 3.0L V6 and transmission slipping on the 4-speed automatic. The cost of repairs for the Montero can be moderate to high, so it’s important to factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing one.