Used 1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Consumer Reviews
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Ours wont die either.....
1998 bought in 99 with 12000 miles, dealer demo. Just passed 300000, done little preventative maintenance, everything original except tires, battery and oil and air filters. Used as work vehicle last 5 years, lived in cold and snow in New York and the heat in Atlanta. Has never broke down, did run out of gas once but i guess thats not Mitsubishis fault. Got 38 miles on highway when low fuel light on before it ran out. Never serviced transmission but still shifts like new. Engine uses oil and has a leak. Obviously a vehicle should be serviced and maintained and we are probably very lucky but i would take this over a Chevy any day.
9.5 years later...
Purchased new in 1999. It now has 163,000+ miles and is still a good truck. Average 19 mpg. Only problem was a check engine light and O2 sensor. Replaced factory Yokohama tires at 80,000. Currently run BF Goodrich KOs and just about ready for a new set. At about 90,000 put new timing belt, spark plugs and water pump, just for preventive maintenance. Had a problem with the front brakes going out quick, upgraded to a higher quality pad and now get about 20,000-24,000 miles on front pads. I've only changed the back pads once. The pads are disc front and rear and are extremely easy for do-it-yourself. With minimal tools I can swap out the front pads in less than a hour.
- XLS 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,9912,130 mi away
My mechanic didn't think it was a good buy...
But had I listened to him, I would not be reporting on the best car experience ever. I bought my 1998 Sport in 2002 when it already had 80,000 miles. It's now2016 and it's pushing 240,000. Changed one belt eventually because the manual said it should be done, but was told it was still in great shape and I could probably have left it alone. I've driven it low on oil, carried dogs, lumber, cement, enough bags of garden soil to flatten the tires, and it just won't die. There's really only one problem with this car and it's a common complaint: it leaks oil. I was warned they ALL do. I just fill it up every once in a while and it's happy. Oil changes, two attempts at fixing the oil leak, one belt change, tires, new battery, one alternator. That's it. So it's starting to look a little dated, but as long as it sticks with me, I will stick with it.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Utility Proven
The Mitsubishi Montero is a get the job done vehicle. It has a reliable engine, transmission, and transfer case. It has a time proven engineering design that handles abuse. Its ride quality is that of a load bearing design. The interior is comfortble enough for about 18 hour rides with no aches on the legs and back. Its electrical system is reliable and strong. It is fairly easy to work on like plugs and such with enough room to get around.
IT JUST WON'T DIE!!!
326000 MILES, THAT'S THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SIX THOUSAND MILES!! It finally broke down yesterday, (water pump.) All stop and go miles and boat towing miles. I don't know what kind of alien technology they must have used to build my Montero, but after 12 years, I am getting a new car, and taking this one and put it in a museum somewhere. I haven't changed the oil for at least 8 years, and still purs like a kitten when you start it. The check engine light came on 215000 miles ago. The timing belt is the original!! never changed the spark plugs because they look so hard to get to. 0 maintenance. except for gas and oil, it leaks some where in the engine. Nothing rebuilt, all original
My montero
This is the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. If Mitsubishi still made the Montero I would buy one for 2010. This car will not die. I only have 160k but she still runs like the first day I bought her 11yrs ago. A total "underdog" in the world of autos.
I'm sad to see it go!
I have had this suv for over 4 yrs and with 76000 miles it runs great. With regular oil changes, it has been wonderful to me. We did put the larger tires on it which made it look and feel better. I shop a lot and having that cargo space is great for me (not for my bank account... or my husband). We are now passing her on to a family member, so we will still be able to visit.
Close to 200,000 and going strong
I bought this vehicle new on 1998 and I did not have any major problems with it. After 150,000 or so, it started to consume about a quart of oil every 2000 miles or so. At 90,000 I had a major maintenance check and so I did at 190,000 (change timing belt, spark plugs, water pump etc). The shop check the engine compression at 190 thousands and it was around 150. They said I could drive it for another 100 thousands miles.
Nice Truck
I had this truck for over 2 yrs. I really like it. I lived in snowy MA and it handles great in the snow and ice. The tires don't seem to have worn much and no brake work yet. I used to commute 45 mi one way, 5 days a week and I find the drivers seat comfy. Not a 10 but, not awful either. The body is sharp looking and black looks great. I've also installed a hitch and have towed 5k lbs no problem. Gas is ok at around 20-24 mpg on the 3.0L v6. The negatives...stupidly placed cup holders, crappy stock stereo, and the price of parts (a reason to buy American). I have 102k mi on this and have only had the regular mtc done (belts, plugs, etc). I'd buy again.
Great value in a nice looking SUV
I purchased my 1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport used and got a great deal on it, partly because it was listed as an LS pkg. I think it looks sharp, especially since I added an exterior push bar on the front. It drives a little rough for the rear passengers, but that doesn't bother me as a driver. The only mechanical problem that I have had with it was with the electricle system left me high and dry twice because of a loose connection. I have 88,000 miles on it and once that got fixed I have not had any problems, knock on wood.
The worst purchase I've ever made.
I really thought I would enjoy this car. I loved how it looked and in the beginning, it seemed to run fine. I've owned it less than 1 year, and have had it in the dealership service department multiple times. I've had the front end re-built, new brakes, oil leak, transmission leak, power window problems, power door lock problem, antenna problem, battery and starter problems...you name it, it's been worked on. I can't wait to get rid of it!
Great Car
I bought the 98 Montero over a year ago and haven't had any major mechanical problems, what so ever. The one problem that I've had is the alarm system which goes off randomly and sometimes wont shut off. My blender in my house sets off the alarm also! So that's jacked, but the handle and the drive is excellent. Very comfortable and roomy.
Montero Blues
Its underpowered, bulky, and heavy. It takes corners worse than any chevy SUV i've ever driven. The steering parts are failing now, and it only has 54K miles on it.
all round good suv
I've put 50,000 mi on it in a year and have only replaced tires and wipers. Will need a water pump soon but can't complain. SOLID SUV
love my truck
leased my SUV in 1999. considering buying out my lease. Very realiable, drove cross country no problems. Lots of space for moving. fun to drive and looks sharp.
Would never buy another one!
Currently have 102000 miles on this vehicle. It burns about a quart of oil every 1,000 miles, the horsepower has always been inadequate and a lot of little problems have occured since it was bought new. Very poorly engineered vehicle in my opinion.
I drove it I loved it
All I can say: change oil, add gas! Be careful if you drive on high speed, check oil after that. Don't drive with full tank, 3/4 is the best. My Mitsu get best fuel economy 23.2 mpg and worse 18 mpg. Body is strong, engine is good. Really good car for it age.
Love my Montero Sport
Bought my '99 Montero Sport used with 18,000 miles in late 2000. Truck now has 54,000 miles on it. Have had two minor problems with it. Easy fix by dealer. Did have locks taken off the wheels (saw that one comming!). Drives solid and smooth. Style is great, looks better then most other new SUV's. Use mine off road for hunting. It will go most any where! Love it!
Very happy owner
Overall, this is a great vehicle. We have 73k trouble-free miles so far and couldn't be happier. The only problem we did have was a wierd howling noise during highways speeds on windy days. Mitsu put a TSB out for this, but the dealership gave us a hard time about replacing the window seals. They eventually did and everything is fine now.
Great SUV.
I have owned Montero Sport LS V6 (2WD) for 5 years. Currently have about 92000 miles on the odometer. Did all the recommended services in time. There have not been a single break down. All the mechanisms function well. Gas mileage was and still is above my expectations. It makes about 20 mpg on a freeway and about 16 mpg in the city. I also do some light offroading in Mojave desert and my Montero Sport performes splendidly. In my opinion it is one great inexpensive SUV. Besides, Mitsubishi provided excellent financing plan.
Money Trap
Thinking this would be the alternative to an expensive SUV, what you save in $$ initially over a Grand Cherokee or land Rover you will pay for in Maintenance. Went through Brake Rotors 5 times. We only drove it 10k a year. 3 of these were before the car had 12,000 miles. Very noisey, rough handeling steering very rough. Felt very tinny, not sturdy. For a truck you would think it would be able to handle a small pothole without sounding like it was going to fall apart!
Looks Great..Runs Great..Great Price
Purchsed this truck with only 20K miles, it has been great every step of the way. NO to Low mantance, oil, tires and brakes. Fun for the family, we go to the mountians and the beach, plenty of room and plenty of fun. I can't say enough about the car (for the price.)
One of the Best Out There
The Mitsubishi Montero is one of the best SUVs out there. Mine is a two wheel drive XLS model. I go trail riding a lot and the driving comfort of it is outstanding. Even on gravel roads the suspention is amazingly smooth for a seven year old SUV. It can handle most anything you can throw at it as long as it isn't too messy. The only thing I would trade it in on would have to be another one but with 4WD.
Average User
No problems in 67000 miles except have a brake light on since 64000 , probably a solenoid. Still as solid as new. This is a 4-cyl with stick and gets 18-20 & 24 on road approx.It rides better than a new Axiom.
Great SUV!
I look and look for a SUV with good power, looks good and in my price range. I looked a the pathfinder, 4runner and grand cherokee. None of them came close the Montero Sport. First the truck looks great! Next, it's a "real" SUV (opposed to the car- like SUV you find these days). Also, it's a great value. I've never had a problem with it. I've driven it 60,000 miles in three years and the only work that has been done on it is the 30k and 60k services. Finally, for a mid-size SUV it has a lot of power.
Slightly better than a bus pass
The worst experience I had with this truck was changing a flat tire. The truck cames with wheel locks that strip after being tightened with a torque wrench. Had to get the thing towed in to the dealer to have the tire changed. Th dealer stated that is one of their major complaints. After being standed on the highway on Mothers day, paying almost $200.00 in towing fees, replacing the lug nuts and losing a days pay I would rather have a bus pass. Wrote Mitsubishi and got the brush off. This is my first Mitsubishi and my last unless all other auto makers go out of busines.
Electrical and rear suspension
Owned since 2006. I enjoy driving this vehicle. Rough on city streets but very smooth on highway. Very good on gas consumption and tires.
Good ride after 4 years.
I dont know what these other guys are talking about. If your thinking of buying a nice SUV that wont break your bank and looks good, then this is it. I bought mine at 3 years old with over 60k on it (as a second vehicle for towing) and it runs fantastic. I've travelled from Florida to NY three times with it in 4 months and the only noticeable problem is a slight shudder between 2nd and 3rd gears (its automatic) if the RPMs are Very low. I feel this maybe twice a week. If all I have to do to a vehicle with this many miles on it Im thankful.
Montero Sport
I love my Montero Sport. Easy to drive, easy to park. No problems on hills. The Montero is our second SUV, we also own a Isuzu Trooper and the Montero is far Superior in comfort and handling. The cupholder broke early and they repaired at no cost. We have been very happy with it.
Excellent value
I have had this SUV since new and have loved it. I have towed other cars and trucks with it on trips over 1200 miles on car trailers and never had a problem. The gearing is perfect to make use of horsepower. Gas milage has always been good also. The only problem we have had is wind noise on the drivers side. These SUv's are under valued compared to other mid size SUV's.
Served us well
Bought it used (1 year old/20K miles) now has 94K miles on it. Never has "broken-down" but had minor problems with brake pads wearing out, pwr antenna broke (due to winter weather), cup holders broke off, and 4WD now takes some encouragement to work. Has gotten us through some bad snowstorms and I take it off-road occasionally with good results. Otherwise we have enjoyed it and is a nice family vehicle.
Wake Up and Drive
Wanted a stylish, reliable, easy to handle SUV and have really enjoyed driving this car. Even at 4 yrs. old people still ask me if I just bought it... Interior cloth seats are easy keepers and always look good. Have regular oil changes, tire rotations, recommended key service and it runs great. Didn't need new tires until 45,000 miles. Fold down seats allow for hauling oversize items. Love this car.
Beautiful, Faithful & Rugged
I have owned my 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport going on nine years and have never had one serious problem. I've only had to replace the wipers, tires, brakes and one windshield wiper pump in 130,000 miles. This has been the best all around truck I've ever owned. It is a little underpowered on the freeway but will climb the Grand Canyon (where I live by the way) with ease. She looks almost as good as the day I bought her in 1997 and I will probably keep "Mitsy" for another 9 years.
Great SUV
Great SUV, This SUV is based off the the award winning race truck of Dakar Rallye in the 1990's, a tried and true, race proven, durable SUV. The racing hertiage of Mitsubishi and vehicle make it a great truck. Mitsubishi really has a top notch SUV. Its styling is mean, beefy, and agressive. I love it. This is really the only SUV or truck mass produced from a race truck, Mitsubishi really did there homework. I can't say enough.
So yeah it's a Sport
Ok I have had my Montero Sport 2 months and done 7200 already on it. Two oil changes and it's a dream. Excellent cargo space....great 4WD that WORKS. Still because I do so much driving, I drive an SUV like an SUV is suppose to be driven..sensibly and speed limits are observed. This is a great Vehicle for the price my sport had 38,000 on it when bought. I rate this vehicle highly and if anybody is going for the "NEW" sports with all the finance goodies then save yourself $12,000 or so with a few $$$$
Rollover nightmare...
I loved this vehicle,but it got totalled in a rollover. Rolled-over way too easy. Would never recommend this vehicle to anyone for that reason alone.
What a Hot Car
I LOVE my Montero Sport. Bought it new in 1999 and can't bear to part with it. Fun to drive - have never had any mechanical problems in 5 years and 52000 miles. changed brake pads at 35000 miles - no problems - fun and easy to drive. Suspension is a little stiff for a bit more rougher ride but still comfortable. No body problems - 5 years old and still looks brand new.
Montero Sport is a great value
I have a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport and it is a nice looking truck six years later. It is a little under powered though. At least it gets OK mileage. I have never had one problem with it until the antenna broke. Having said this, the cup holder was never right and the whistling noise that I experience at high speeds is annoying. Overall this vehicle is a great value and I would buy another.
2 years of feedback
I've had my XLS Sport for 2 1/2 years and absolutely love it. Purchased it used after comparing to 4-Runner, Grand Cherokee & Pathfinder. For the $$ it was the best option far and away. Save $10K over comparable 4-Runner. It is very dependable, great in the snow & ice and overall well designed. Would definitely recommend it to a cost- conscience buyer. Only concern is that it's suspension gives a stiffer ride than its competitors but its well worth it off road.
Couldn't be happier :)
I bought this car used 3-1/2 years ago and so far all I had to do is oil changes, tire changes and 1 battery replacement. This has been so far the most reliable car I ever had.
MONTER O SPORT AT 40,000 MILES
FAIR PERFORMANCE,GOOD LOOKS AND MECHANICAL RELIABILITY. AT 40,000 MILES HAS DEVELOPED A FEW RATTLES AND SQUEAKS, BUT STILL LOOKS GREAT AND DRIVES WELL.
RELIABLE TRUCK
This vehicle is great , never had aproblem with it and still going strong. i changed the tires at 80000 miles. Been towing a 6x8 u haul every 3 moths up from SF to LA though the grapevine with no probs, gets goos gas milage. spartan interior but fullty functional, never had a problem going though the mountains either.
'98 Monty 4WD
I own a '98 Monty LS 4WD and it's excellent. It responds like a real Japanese Samurai Warrior. Off-Road is the best what Mitsubishi has done with its SUV's.
No complaints
I have been pleased with my Montero. It had 40,000 miles on it when I bought it. Mileage is up to 145,000 now and have only had to get new tires and have the antenna replaced. Does lack in power for a v6, but it has served me well. Rides like a truck in the city as expected from an suv, but has a pretty smooth highway ride. Would definately look at getting another one whenever I have to look for a new car again.
Greate
It's a car of my dream.
CJ project-Lillian
The Montero Sport is perfect for pulling boats, trailers, ect. It is spacious for all five passengers and with all the trunk, rack and hide away spots there's always room to put just about any item. The Build of the Montero is bold, safe. Overall performance is splendid.
Montero Sport Limited 4WD
The limited has all the power you need. It drives like a reasonably comfortable car with everything you want with a 4WD. One set of Brakes in 75,000 miles. Have the 100,000 milese Bumber to Bumber but the only thing I've replaced was the Rear Wiper Motor. Should have saved the money. Dealer is great. I drove a loaner that was the base model that didn't ride anything like mine. I'm glad I got the limited.
Dont buy
This car is atrocious...It is literally the biggest pile of crap ive ever driven. It handles and drives like an outhouse on wheels. This mitz (my family calls it the [non-permissible content removed]) a huge failure by mitsubishi. I used to have an 02 x5 3.0i and have no idea why I got rid of it for this p.o.s. Im selling it (if anyone is on enough drugs to buy it) and getting back my greatly loved BMW...Im sticking to german cars because this car to be perffectly honest, blows
Dangerous car
This car is the biggest pile of shit I have ever owned. It sucks in the snow or even a newly paved dry road. The suspension is as soft as jello, it roles through every corner. This car is very unsafe. My family hates the montero sport Ls(love stain edition). I would NEVER recomend buying this car unless you want to die in a fiery car accident, it is so unsafe it astounds me that this whole car hasn't been recalled yet. Do not buy unless you want to die.. If you want a reliable safe car, buy a BMW or Mercedes.
Can't wait to buy a second one!
I have 65000 miles on my Montero Sport and it has been worry free. I love the way it handles, how it looks, and all the great comments I get when people step inside. It's roomy, comfortable, solid and fun.