2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Introduction:

The 2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a mid-size SUV with a 3.8L V6 engine that produces 213 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission and is available with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The Montero Sport is known for its rugged off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, it has also been reported to have some issues, particularly with its engine and transmission.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. The symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and a rough idle. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip teeth and potentially damage the engine. The symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, reduced power, and an illuminated check engine light. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000.
• Oil pump failure: The oil pump can fail, causing a loss of oil pressure and potential engine damage. The symptoms include a knocking noise from the engine, low oil pressure, and an illuminated oil pressure warning light. The solution is to replace the oil pump. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500.

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V754000
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V380000
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V135000

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Torque converter shudder: The torque converter can shudder, causing a vibration in the vehicle. The symptoms include a vibration when accelerating or shifting gears. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.
• Transmission failure: The transmission can fail, causing a loss of power and potential safety hazards. The symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and a burning smell. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $4,000.

Recalls:

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V441000
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V255000
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V432000

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure: The front suspension strut can fail, causing a loss of control and potential safety hazards. The symptoms include a clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, and a decrease in ride height. The solution is to replace the front suspension strut. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000 per strut.

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery can drain quickly, even when the vehicle is turned off. The symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a flickering dashboard. The solution is to identify and fix the source of the battery drain, such as a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, or defective battery. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000.
• Electrical system failure: The electrical system can fail, causing a loss of power and potential safety hazards. The symptoms include a loss of power to the lights, gauges, and accessories. The solution is to diagnose and repair the fault in the electrical system, such as a faulty wiring harness, alternator, or starter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000.

Exterior

• Rear bumper rust: The rear bumper can rust, especially in areas with high humidity or road salt. The symptoms include a rusted bumper, peeling paint, and bubbling under the paint. The solution is to replace or repair the rear bumper. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500.

Interior

• HVAC system failure: The HVAC system can fail, causing a loss of heating or cooling. The symptoms include a lack of airflow, cold air blowing when heat is selected, and a musty smell from the vents. The solution is to diagnose and repair the fault in the HVAC system, such as a faulty blower motor, blend door actuator, or refrigerant leak. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $1,000.
• Seatbelt retractor failure: The seatbelt retractor can fail, causing the seatbelt to become loose or jammed. The symptoms include a loose seatbelt, difficulty tightening the seatbelt, and a rattling noise from the seatbelt retractor. The solution is to replace the seatbelt retractor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500 per seatbelt.

Summary:

The 2008 Mitsubishi Montero Sport has been reported to have some significant issues, particularly with its engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to repair and may affect the safety and reliability of the vehicle. While the Montero Sport offers rugged off-road capabilities and a spacious interior, it is important to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing one.