2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The 2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport, also known as the Pajero Sport in some markets, is a mid-size SUV known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. In the US market, it was primarily offered with a 3.5L V6 engine producing around 222 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options typically included a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate its off-road prowess and spacious interior, but common complaints revolve around fuel economy, dated interior design, and potential maintenance costs associated with its age.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Valve Stem Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke on startup, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for an extended period. This indicates oil leaking past the valve stem seals into the combustion chamber.
  • Solution: Replace valve stem seals. Requires removing the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the engine, rough running, or complete engine failure. The 3.5L V6 is an interference engine, meaning that if the timing belt breaks, the valves can collide with the pistons, causing severe damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump at the recommended interval (typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift at all. This can be caused by worn clutch packs, a failing valve body, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission service, including replacing the fluid and filter. If the problem persists, the valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced, or the transmission may require a complete rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (service) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering response. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Rear Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when carrying a load. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn rear springs or shocks. Adding aftermarket air bags inside the springs can assist with load levelling
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Corrosion of Wiring Harness Connectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, sensors malfunctioning, or the engine not starting. Often worse in areas with high humidity or road salt.
  • Solution: Clean and protect corroded connectors. In severe cases, the wiring harness may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, suspension components, and other undercarriage parts. Common in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Treat and prevent rust with rust inhibitors and protective coatings. In severe cases, structural repairs may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dash Cover, or dashboard replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50- $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport, while a capable SUV, can be prone to certain issues related to its age and design. Engine issues like valve stem seals and timing belt maintenance are common, while the transmission might exhibit slipping problems. Suspension wear and electrical gremlins are also potential concerns. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify any existing problems.