What are the most common Mitsubishi Montero problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Mitsubishi Montero has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Belt Failure on Interference Engine (6G72/6G74) Causes Bent Valves, Super Select 4WD Vacuum Actuator / Free-Wheel Engagement Failure, Crankshaft Position Sensor / Distributor Pickup Failure (Crank-No-Start and Stalling). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mitsubishi Montero reliable?
The 1997 Mitsubishi Montero has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Timing Belt Failure on Interference Engine (6G72/6G74) Causes Bent Valves. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mitsubishi Montero problems?
Repair costs for known Mitsubishi Montero issues range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Belt Failure on Interference Engine (6G72/6G74) Causes Bent Valves, typically costs $500-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Montero Timing Belt Failure on Interference Engine (6G72/6G74) Causes Bent Valves?
Both the 3.0L 6G72 and the 3.5L 6G74 V6s used in the 1990s Montero are interference-design engines driven by a rubber timing belt. If the belt snaps, or if it is contaminated by oil leaking from the front cover/cam seals, the pistons strike the open valves and bend them. Note tha… Repairs typically run $500-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1992-1999 Mitsubishi Montero Super Select 4WD Vacuum Actuator / Free-Wheel Engagement Failure?
The Montero's Super Select 4WD (second-generation, 1992+) engages the front axle through a vacuum-operated free-wheel actuator and electric solenoids rather than a mechanical linkage from the shifter. Over decades the dual-solenoid pack fails, the rubber hoses deteriorate, and th… Repairs typically run $200-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Montero Crankshaft Position Sensor / Distributor Pickup Failure (Crank-No-Start and Stalling)?
The 6G72's crank/cam timing signal on early 1990s trucks is generated inside the distributor, and later trucks use a discrete crankshaft position sensor at the front of the engine behind the crank pulley/timing covers. As these sensors and their pickups age they fail intermittent… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 1994-1999 Mitsubishi Montero Automatic Transmission Torque-Converter Lockup Shudder and Slipping?
The Aisin-based 4-speed automatic (V4AW2/V4AW3) behind the Montero V6 develops a torque-converter lockup (damper-clutch) shudder as it ages, felt as a vibration or 'buzz' typically in the 35-50 mph range at steady throttle that owners often mistake for an engine misfire. A Mitsub… Repairs typically run $150-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Montero Valve Stem Seal Wear and High Oil Consumption on High-Mileage V6s?
As the 6G72 and 6G74 V6s age, the valve stem seals harden and crack and the piston rings/valve guides wear, allowing oil into the combustion chamber. This is one of the most widely reported 90s Montero engine complaints. Owners report consumption on the order of a quart every 1,0… Repairs typically run $600-$1,800. Severity: medium.
