2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor

The 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor is a mid-size SUV that was offered with only one engine and transmission option: a 3.8L V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Endeavor’s comfortable ride and spacious interior. Common complaints include lackluster fuel economy and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can wear out or break, leading to severe engine damage if not replaced at the recommended interval. Symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, and eventually, complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump at the manufacturer-recommended interval (typically every 60,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets are common. Symptoms include oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR valve failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor performance, check engine light with EGR codes
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: The solution depends on the severity. Fluid flush and filter change can sometimes help. More severe cases might require valve body repair or replacement or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Cracked Rear Trailing Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially over bumps. Poor wheel alignment and uneven tire wear can also result.
  • Solution: Replace the trailing arm bushings or, in some cases, the entire trailing arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine, or complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow or erratic window movement, or a grinding noise from the door panel.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and body panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected body panels, rust inhibitors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity of the rust. $200-$1000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air, unusual noises from the A/C compressor, or a musty smell from the vents.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific problem (leaks, compressor failure, etc.) and repair or replace the faulty components. Common fixes include refrigerant recharge, compressor replacement, or evaporator core replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recharge) to $1000+ (compressor or evaporator replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2005 Mitsubishi Endeavor can be a decent used vehicle but it’s important to be aware of the potential issues, especially with the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system. Addressing these issues can range from relatively inexpensive repairs to more costly overhauls. The severity of rust can be a deciding factor in the vehicle’s overall condition and potential longevity.