1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Introduction:

The 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a compact SUV loved for its off-road prowess, roomy interior, and comfortable ride. It is available with either a 3.0-liter V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission, or a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. The 3.0-liter V6 produces 173 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5-liter V6 generates 190 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

3.0-liter V6

• Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Intake manifold gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, and decreased engine power. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

3.5-liter V6

• Timing chain tensioner failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
• Valve cover gasket leak: Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping: Description/Symptoms: Inability to shift gears smoothly, delayed engagement, or slipping gears. Solution: Flush and replace automatic transmission fluid or perform a transmission rebuild. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
• Torque converter failure: Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, reduced acceleration, or shuddering. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, or slipping. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Synchronizer issues: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, or popping out of gear. Solution: Replace the synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Suspension

• Leaking shocks: Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, excessive body roll, and reduced ride comfort. Solution: Replace the shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per axle
• Worn ball joints: Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when turning or going over bumps, excessive tire wear. Solution: Replace the ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, or illuminated battery light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter failure: Description/Symptoms: Inability to start the vehicle, clicking noises when attempting to start. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
• Battery drain: Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for an extended period. Solution: Identify and repair the source of the battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• Rusty undercarriage: Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rust on the undercarriage components. Solution: Rust treatment or replacement of affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Sunroof leaks: Description/Symptoms: Water entering the vehicle through the sunroof. Solution: Repair leaks or replace the sunroof. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Window regulator failure: Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close windows, broken window regulators. Solution: Replace the window regulators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window

Summary:

The 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a reliable vehicle with a few potential issues. The most severe and costly issues are head gasket failure, transmission slipping, and alternator failure. The majority of the issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.