2018 Mitsubishi Montero

Introduction:

The 2018 Mitsubishi Montero is a mid-size SUV offered with a 3.5L V6 engine paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. With 215 horsepower and 227 lb-ft of torque, the Montero offers a comfortable ride and decent off-road capabilities. While it’s reliable and practical, it has some drawbacks such as its outdated interior and lack of modern features.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Valve Sticking:
  • Description: The intake valves can become stuck due to carbon buildup, leading to reduced engine performance.
  • Symptoms: Misfires, reduced power, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace intake valves and clean intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description: The timing chain tensioner may fail, causing the timing chain to slip or break.
  • Symptoms: Engine rattling, reduced power, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner and timing chain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description: The shift solenoids control gear shifting and can fail, leading to transmission slipping or shifting problems.
  • Symptoms: Rough shifting, delayed gear engagement, no gear engagement
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Struts Leaking:
  • Description: The front struts can develop leaks, causing them to lose their damping ability.
  • Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, clunking noises, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Springs Sagging:
  • Description: The rear leaf springs can sag over time, reducing ride height and load-carrying capacity.
  • Symptoms: Lowered rear end, increased rear tire wear
  • Solution: Replace rear leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description: The alternator can fail, leading to electrical problems and potential battery drain.
  • Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Solenoid Sticking:
  • Description: The starter solenoid can stick, preventing the starter from engaging the flywheel.
  • Symptoms: Engine not starting, clicking sounds when turning key
  • Solution: Replace starter solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Plastic Trim Fading:
  • Description: The plastic trim on the exterior can fade due to sun exposure.
  • Symptoms: Discoloration or chalking of trim
  • Solution: Clean and apply trim restorer
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lenses Clouding:
  • Description: The headlight lenses can become cloudy over time, reducing light output.
  • Symptoms: Reduced nighttime visibility
  • Solution: Replace headlight lenses
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description: The climate control system may malfunction, causing inconsistent temperatures or airflow.
  • Symptoms: Inadequate heating or cooling, uneven airflow distribution
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace climate control components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Lights Flickering:
  • Description: The dashboard lights may flicker or go out intermittently.
  • Symptoms: Intermittent loss of dashboard illumination
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical connections or replace dashboard components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Mitsubishi Montero has some common issues, particularly with the intake valves and timing chain tensioner. The suspension and electrical systems also have some recurring problems. While the issues are not widespread and the Montero is generally considered a reliable vehicle, some repairs can be costly. However, the Montero offers a comfortable ride and decent off-road capabilities, making it a practical choice for those who prioritize durability over frills.