2000 Mitsubishi Montero

2000 Mitsubishi Montero

The 2000 Mitsubishi Montero is a mid-size SUV that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was known for its off-road capability and spacious interior. However, it also had a number of issues that owners should be aware of.

The Montero was available with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 and a 3.8-liter V6. The 3.5-liter V6 produced 190 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.8-liter V6 produced 215 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5-liter V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Failure

• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating.
• Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls: None Found

3.8-liter V6

Timing Belt Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The timing belt breaks, causing catastrophic engine damage.
• Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Slipping

• Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears or fails to engage gears.
• Solution: Replace the transmission.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Suspension

Lower Control Arm Bushings

• Description/Symptoms: The lower control arm bushings wear out, causing a clunking noise and poor handling.
• Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
• Recalls: None Found

Rear Suspension

Leaf Springs

• Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs break or sag, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag and handle poorly.
• Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
• Solution: Replace the alternator.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Body Panels

Rust

• Description/Symptoms: The body panels, especially the wheel arches and rear quarter panels, rust prematurely.
• Solution: Repair or replace the rusted body panels.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

Climate Control

Air Conditioner Compressor Failure

• Description/Symptoms: The air conditioner compressor fails, causing the air conditioner to blow warm air.
• Solution: Replace the air conditioner compressor.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Recalls: None Found

Interior Trim

Dashboard Cracking

• Description/Symptoms: The dashboard cracks due to sun exposure.
• Solution: Replace the dashboard.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Mitsubishi Montero is a capable off-road vehicle with a spacious interior. However, it is important to be aware of the potential issues that can arise with this vehicle. The most severe issues include timing belt failure, transmission slipping, and alternator failure. These issues can be expensive to fix and can lead to catastrophic engine damage. If you are considering buying a 2000 Mitsubishi Montero, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a decision.