1999 Mitsubishi Montero

Vehicle Introduction

The 1999 Mitsubishi Montero is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. It’s powered by either a 3.5-liter V6 engine (190 hp/230 lb-ft) or a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine (141 hp/245 lb-ft). Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its positive qualities, the Montero has faced a handful of issues over the years. Here’s a comprehensive list of specific problems reported by owners:

Engine

• 3.5-liter V6
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leak around the valve cover area.
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Coolant leak from the intake manifold area.
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• 3.0-liter V6 Turbo Diesel
  • Turbocharger failure: Reduced power and increased smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace turbocharger and associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Fuel injector failure: Engine misfires and rough idling.
    • Solution: Replace defective fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 per injector

Transmission

• 5-speed Automatic
  • Transmission fluid leak: Oil leak from the transmission pan or lines.
    • Solution: Repair or replace leaking components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Slipping gears: Transmission struggles to engage gears smoothly.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000

Suspension

• Front suspension: Worn or damaged ball joints and bushings.
  • Solution: Replace ball joints and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Rear suspension: Weak leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Loss of electrical power and charging issues.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Battery drain: Battery discharges quickly even when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Rust-prone body: Rust can develop on the frame, undercarriage, and body panels.
  • Solution: Rust treatment and repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.
• Plastic trim fading: Exterior plastic trim can fade and become discolored.
  • Solution: Replace or paint plastic trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

Interior

• Climate control malfunction: Climate control system not functioning properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Power window failure: Power windows become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace window regulator or motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window

Summary

While the Montero is generally a reliable vehicle, it has faced several issues related to its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be costly to repair. Mitsubishi did issue a few recalls for the 1999 Montero, including one for a potential fuel leak (NHTSA Campaign ID: 99V123000).