2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
The 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a mid-size SUV with the following engine and transmission options:
- 3.5L V6 OHV 24-valve engine with 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
- 3.8L V6 SOHC 24-valve MIVEC engine with 215 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
Popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts, the Montero Sport is known for its spacious cabin, off-road capability, and reliability. However, it has also been reported to have some issues, as detailed below:
Engine
- 3.5L V6 OHV 24-valve engine
- Intake manifold gasket failure Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, engine overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
- 3.8L V6 SOHC 24-valve MIVEC engine
- Timing belt failure Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine failure Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioners Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
- 4-speed automatic transmission
- Transmission slipping or shuddering Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, slipping gears Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front suspension ball joint wear Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises when turning, uneven tire wear, loss of steering control Solution: Replace ball joints Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming or flickering lights, battery drain, electrical system failure Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 Recalls: None Found
- Battery drain Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, electrical system malfunctions Solution: Inspect electrical system for parasitic drain, replace battery if necessary Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear bumper corrosion Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on rear bumper, paint peeling Solution: Replace rear bumper Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard, especially around vents Solution: Replace dashboard Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
- Door panel trim peeling Description/Symptoms: Door panel trim peeling or fading Solution: Replace or refinish door panel trim Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a generally reliable SUV, but it has been reported to have some issues with its engine (timing belt failure), transmission (slipping), suspension (ball joint wear), and electrical system (alternator failure). These issues can be moderate to severe in terms of expense and impact on drivability. It is important to consider these issues when evaluating the vehicle and to factor in the potential cost of repairs.