Used 2003 Mitsubishi Montero SUV Consumer Reviews
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Only owner, now 160,000 and still going strong!
May not be the "best looking" SUVs on the road, but definitely excellent in dependability. I bought mines new in 2003 only because of an end of the year savings, which absorbed the negative equity of my “lemon” trade in. I wanted a SUV but knew nothing about this particular make/model. I didn’t even know what it looked like until they walked me over to it. Initially I was not impressed. Although leather seats, I thought the interior was cheaply designed, and it was a little noisy at higher speeds. As stated, I bought, but thought I would most likely get rid of it around 3yrs/30k. However, here I still own it over 13 years later, and I wouldn’t get rid of my baby for nothing! The only repairs I made to her are changing the oxygen sensors multiple times, a minor adjustment to my four wheel drive, and engine oil seals. Granted, I have stayed on top of the scheduled maintenance. Unfortunately, Mitsubishi no longer makes this model. However, they should bring it back with interior, and body style upgrades. I would certainly buy another!
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2003 Ltd 20th Anniversary Montero
We purchased our 2003 Ltd 20th Anniversary Montero used and absolutely love it. We live in Maine and it dealt with the 100+ inches of snow we got this winter beautifully. I can't believe the "experts" only rate it at a 5.6. It has a lot power and drives and looks great. It is always being favorably commented on by others. We test drove Envoys, Trailblazers, etc. and they couldn't compare to the room and build quality of the Montero. It has a ton of cargo room and the third row seating option is great for short distance dinner trips with 2 other couples. We couldn't be more pleased with our Montero and for 10-15K less than our friend's Lexus, it's a steal. Even the Lexus owner agrees!
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,800376 mi away
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $8,700479 mi away
Head Turner
I have had a Montero Limited for 5 yrs and I love it. I actually preferred my montero over my Dad's Hummer H2 when he asked me which one I would prefer to have. I love the interior's quality and comfort. It does great off-roading with a rock solid frame. Has a good take off for an SUV of its size. Everywhere I go it always turns head and people are always asking what kinda of car it is and most even think it's an 08 or 09 model. Great sound system for being stock, I wish it would have the fourth generations 650 watt Rockford Fosgate system with a 10" sub with 12 speakers and 240hp MIVEC engine though, but it will do. I would never choose any other SUV over my Montero besides the H1 alpha.
248,582 original miles and still going strong!!!
i bought my 2003 montero LTD in 2004 with 25,000 miles and since 200,000 + miles in the odometer and let me tell it has never let me stranded no where! only do the regular basic maintenance (oil, oil filter,air filter,battery,brakes, etc) and the off road capability one of the best off road vehicle you can buy.But where it falls short is in horseporwer is slugish when accelerating and the mpg i think can be improve im getting max and light footed on highway speed is 19.1.but overall is the most reliable (and i have had toyotas)and comfortable ,i would recommended it to everybody.
120k+, It keeps going and...
I drive a steep and curvy mountain every day. At first I was a bit disappointed in the handling. I replaced the tires from the dealer and WOW! What a difference. I end up passing motorcycles over the mountain. (Do not try that at home.) It handles very well for a SUV. The gas mileage for what I put it through is great 17 mpg. I am a contractor, one day I pulled a tandem dump truck out of a steep driveway on one of my job sites. Saved me a wrecker bill. It was in 2LLC slow going but it did the job. I am so proud to own this Montero. Edmunds.com take another Montero out for a test drive, I guarantee if you change the tires you will change your mind.
Sturdy SUV
I sold my 89 with 197,000 to a salesman. For the $ I think the ML series should be a comparable truck as well. I got a blk/blk leather fully loaded for under 40k (well under). It has a new 3.8l engine not the 3.5 that came in the 02's. The truck has plenty of pick-up. With all the standard equipment I ruled out the ML and QX4 easily. Everyone loves it.
Best Bang for your recessionary buck
I bought the 03 Montero 20th Anniv used for a much less than similarly loaded or capable SUV. I already own a 98 Montero Sport with over 155k mi which is still running great. I expect the same or better from this one. I was attracted to Montero's rally heritage, bullet proof engine and that I grew up with them in the Caribbean where they are known as Pajero. Although 7 yrs old, this SUV still turns heads since it is fairly rare. It goes anywhere in style. It's reliable, comfortable and cheap to buy especially used leaving me with money for new mods. I have added wheel spacers for improve stability and look. Next I will add larger rims & tires, a cold air intake to increase HP and MPG.
Fun to Drive Monty
I used to own a Honda Mini Van but wanted to upgrade to an SUV. With lots of research work, I kept coming back to Montero Limited. The Price/Feature combo sold me a 5k mile driven SUV for a huge discount. It's a dark midnight blue with black leather interior. It currently has 85k miles. Besides regular oil/filter changes, I performed a major scheduled maintenance at 60K. Flushed fluids thru dealer, changed front/rear axle oil and spark plugs (DIY). Changed front brake pads at 40k interval and rear brakes once so far. A very reliable truck/SUV with no problems at all as long as you use genuine parts and keep up with maintenance. Planning on driving it up to 300k miles.
What a blast
We checked out all the SUV's on the market. We were tired of seeing the same ones on the road, so we checked out the Mitsubushi Montero. At first we didn't like the full size, but fell in love with it after we drove it. My husband is long waisted. The Montero has tons of headroom and legroom in the front and back. The back door opens and closes like a car door - we'll never hassle with a hatch opening again. Our friends & family are sold on it as well. The back seats fold down for lots of storage. The 3rd row seat is handy for kids. Its gas mileage is decent. It is not cavernous like the Chevrolet Trailblazer though. It has good visibility. It is better looking than the "dog" Durango, but not as expensive as the Toyota Land Cruiser. One bad thing about this truck is that we have spent thousands of dollars on regular maintenance. We'll consider that next time.
2003 Montero Limited
We are so pleased with this vehicle, had to share the experience for future buyers contemplating the Montero. Jeep Cherokee and Infiniti's were our comparison vehicles before finding the Montero. Once we drove the Montero, the others paled in comparison both in price and style. Third row seating is a super feature and used more than we would have expected. No lack of power and the shift of gears in auto mode is remarkably smooth.
What a ride
I just purchased a 2003 Montero XLS with 81,000 miles and it run like new. This truck has great power and passenger room. My kids love the big sun roof and I love the interior and exterior styling. I have always wanted this truck.
Awesome SUV!
I loved the build quality and interior at the time of purchase. A bit of remorse set in over the first year due to "road wildness" - read comments on the internet and found out I needed to change the "OEM" tires - changed to Michelin LTS and man what a difference - now I love everything about this vehicle - I now have 97,000 miles and have not had any major problems - agile , rock solid and extremely comfortable in and out , best visibility . My partner is on his third company car and I have still stayed in this one even though the company would buy me anything I want - nothing out there that interests me .
Love my Montero!
However, do not bother repairing the rear A/C, if you have it. It will just fail again.
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Great vehicle!
Very Reliable, no major problems till 2015, and only 117,000 miles, loosing oil found out the rings went bad. Had to replace engine costing $$$$ With new engine runs great but now the drive train needs to be replaced. Took very good care of this Montero, not sure why this all happened. Not only that but had to replace alternator 3 times prior to finding out about the rings going bad. Drove the Montero from Washington to Mississippi, not one problem!
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Still great after 100,000 miles
It's been five years and and 105,000 miles and I still love my '03 Montero LTD. If they still sold new ones in the US, I'd be buying another. But, I'll gladly hold on to this one for another 100,000 miles or so! I'm very impressed by this vehicle.
Excellent vehicle
We have owned three Montero's, two new, one bought as a lease return. Other than the SUV type of gas mileage they have been terrific vehicles, great comfort, quality build and enjoying to own. Mitsubishi makes fine product and we will consider the next generation of smaller Mitsu SUV's when the time comes. Buy used with confidence
Not Just For The Dogs
After looking to replace my Ford Explorer with another I just wasn't sold. Having three large dogs was a consideration as was having to drive clients. Unlike my previous SUVs I can fold down the seats to create the dog barrier; no more of those bulky fences, and the dogs can be closer to front seat passengers. The interior is classy and has drawn many a compliment, even from a pal who'd recently purchased the Benz SUV. Handles like a dream in rain and snow; I ski so it's been put to the test. We haul our motorcycle trailer with it and it doesn't slow us down a bit. Oh, did I mention the extra large sunroof...
DO'S AND DON'TS
This is my first full size Montero, two others before were sports. This vehicle is all around a nicer vehicle with better quality materials used in it. I have the 2003 and I can see it is clear that many poeople reviewing this car as Mitsubishi sales people. I guess you can't weed them out. Nice car but not the right one for me. Mitsubishi was also horrible to deal with through the whole. Had no care that I already had two previous. Never again will I deal with them.
More than esctatic
After testing about 10 SUVs (and no worthy candidates for purchase in sight), I was immediately hooked on the Montero Limited. After owning it for 5 months, I love it even more than the day I drove it off the lot! It drives as smooth and fun as it looks, and is also as tough and well engineered as it looks (tested this in a serious collision - I walked away without a scratch thanks to the excellent impact absorbtion design). I have no idea why reviews of this vehicle are poor. I already plan, in 12 years, to trade this one in for whatever Montero Limited exists at that time. I only hope the price is as good then as it is now!!!!
You can not find a better full size SUV
I test drove many other SUV during the three month period. But the montero was leader of the group with standard 4wheel drive system that come with every montero and you can beat the independent four wheel that grip the road and the montero ride very good off road and on the highway
A Good Choice
Powerful and sturdy. The heavy weight and wide track keeps the vehical glued to the road. Rear spare tire sticks out further than the bumper, which makes it vulnerable to even a slow 5 to 10 MPH bumper bash. This vulnerability could cause major damage to the rear door even at slow speeds. Over all a great choice. However, all SUV's are over priced and that is the fault of customer demand. If customers were not willing to the pay big bucks, then prices would be lower.
montero
great handling, great look, great interior comfort
Frustrated but totally in love
I can't get my Montero up my driveway (about 15 degree incline) in snowy or icy or slushy conditions, and that's why I bought it in the first place! At first, I thought the problem was the inferior all-seasons that it was sold with, so this year, I bought super-rugged Mastercraft Courser C/Ts, and my Mitsu STILL can't climb my drive (yes, we have already our first snow storm). No one can figure out why - someone please help me if you can. I'm disappointed, as the 2002 Dodge Ram climbs my drive with no problem using worn summer manufacturer tires.
Montero miles
With less then 1,000 miles on my new Montero I feel I have a few things to point out. I like the way this vehicle handles tight turning radius, firm ride, good power. I'm anxious to see how it does pulling my camper. It's rated for 5,000 pounds towing and my camper only weighs 2,200 so it should pull it with ease. But we'll see when we hit the mountains. That's the only concern that I had was the V-6 having the power I needed.
Happy
When looking for an suv...we looked at many models...and after trying out several different makes...we were most happy with the over-all appearance and performance. I would buy another one tomorrow!
Best SUV yet!
This is my 2nd Montero Limited and will keep buying as long as they are made! The comfortable, quiet ride, great turning radius, and dependability are wonderful. Don't believe any negative reviews. Great cargo space and seats 7 people very comfortably. The quality is better than you will find in any upscale SUV.
montero limited 2002
very nice van, i really enjoy it it build is very sporty lookin i get very nice compliment
Unique, Fun SUV
This is my 3rd Montero. Also owned an 89 and a 94. Quality and Confort are great. New larger 3.7 litre engine is a big improvement. This is a HEAVY vehicle you feel safe in. Had it for about 4 weeks - and i'm not disappointed. A quality built and unique looking SUV.
dd
Love the truck..would def buy another.. have never even come close to tipping this thing over and if it had a problem with tipping, i wouldve experienced already.....
Love my SUV its the best
I love it..its the best of the best but under rated.
The best from what I could find/afford
I pick Montero Ltd, after previous accident where I was rear-ended my back was to sensative and not too many SUV's seats would make me comfortable. I sat and test drove many SUV's in mid-/high- 30K's range and none of them could make comfortable a 6'2" man. The only one that I like was a Toyota Landcruiser those seat were perfect but price of $58K quickly spook me away. Mitsubishi delear was extremely sweet and I was able to get a loaded Montero Ltd with prefer package for $31K. Plus I got an execelent value on my trade-off. It is approximatelly 2 months since I own my Montero and I am completely satisfied.
Montero
My wife and I were initially loking at Tahoe, Expedition, Denali, Navigator. Tested the Limited fell in love. Mitsu sales/service outstanding. Got a fabolous deal on new '02. Features match the top of line SUV with a better price. Plenty of room, handles great, and can be taken everywhere from shopping, to the park, to off roading and camping to a night on town.
Car-lotta for Fun and Value
Great all-around SUV,esp.off-road.I've owned Pajeros/Monteros since '84 in Saudi,China,Europe and USA.They're indestructible,provided you follow mfctr's maintenance schedule.I still have my '95 LS,and a new'03 Ltd.The new one has a better engine/overall performance/comfort.However,it also has a useless side-board,puny horn,and,as the old one,not-exactly- useful 3rd row seats(at least they can disappear!).
2003 20th Annversary Special
Had a 2001 LTD. Loved it. 55,000 miles and decided to trade for a new one with 0.0% financing. Hope this one is as reliable and as good off road as the 2001. The 2001 had LSD in the rear. Hope the new traction system works as well. I changed out the springs and shocks to ARB OMEs and the tires to BFG AT KOs in 265-75 x 16 Improved the handling but ride more like a truck.
Perfect!!!!
I traded my 03 Corolla for this Vehicle because of their promo for nurses which availed me of the 0 APR, this has been my dream car eversince! I've been watching this vehicle slamming its competitors in the rallye drakar-paris race, Not everyone can have this kind of truck separated to the usual designs of most SUV's with it's musculine look and superb proven performance!!!!
Excellent choice
This is our first Mitsubishi. Previously owned 3 Subaru Outbacks. Loved the Outbacks, but they were just to small with grandchildren starting to arrive. We have taken the Montero on 2 road trips in excess of 1500 miles each. Have no complaints. It has done everything we have asked it to do. I have been a reader of Consumer Reports for quite a while, but am starting to question their "poor" rating on this vehicle. We have driven this in snow, rain and ice and have always felt very secure. We have used the 3rd row seat several times and have found it to be very useful.
Trade for this SUV now!
The interest rate is what drew us into purchasing this. 3.9% APR Simple Interest loan for 72 months! But it is an awesome SUV with off- roading heritage not other makes can claim. It is made in Japan so assembly is tops. Very solid. No annoying creaks from vibrating parts. Very handsome looking.
merry christmas
I reasearched suv's for ayear or so. I always came back to the montero. In terms of price and size, and style, and the stares you get this is the best suv on the planet. who cares about going fast. The v-6 is adequate for me to get from point a to b.all the large suv are expensive compared to what i got on the limited. you dont need any props with the monty. it is already packaged. would buy another one. signed enough research! just do it
the best of the best
you can do anything with this vehicle except dive in the sea
Best kept secret
Before you buy an SUV you should drive the Mitsubishi Montero Limited. Big dealer discounts make this vehicle a bargain. Lots of style and attitude, plus a responsive drive train.
Excellent!!!
Love my new MONTERO! its very fun to drive specially with it's very responsive sporttronic, I got everybody looking at my truck's very sophisticated looks! I looked even younger with it! I got the best value of my money and I never regret getting this! so many safety features and very classy interior! Whew! It's a very exciting car!!!
The SUV you can rely on, FOREVER!
The exterior appearance of this SUV was the primory reason I bought. It really looks and drives tough. With all options loaded, this SUV can really perform. It has the largest sunroof amount all SUVs. The manul and automatic transmission combination makes driving more fun. Spare wheel attached on the back is the right way for a real SUV supposed to look like!
Emissions
Since we have purchased this vehicle and spent almost 40,000.00 we have a a fowl "egg-like" smell. After numerous tests they are now telling us it is from the fuel and the emission on the truck - and their is nothing they can do - no recalls nothing! It is horrible smelling! Very unhappy with Mitsubishi! Do not buy a Montero, they are happening with the '04's also!
READ if you wanna know if this is ok
This is my first Mitsubishi product. I love it. Period. Mitsu is infamous for their garbage GALANT and shoddy ECLIPSE. Never had a tipsy moment (read Car and Driver not Consumer Report). The luxury appointments are good. If you like the style...need a 4 wheeler that can ride like a car.....and don't wanna blow your cash on depreciating assets....get this car. I will have this vehicle for countless miles....it's RELIABLE and made 100% in JAPAN - which for Mitsu is a good thing.
Love my limited montero - great for moms
I really appreciate that I can stow the rear seat under the floor and gain that cargo space And I love being able to expand seating capacity so easy. I totally disagree that the rear seat is useless My kids love it Lets face it Im not going to drive cross country with an adult back there but who would The seats flip very easily to get the kids in and out Its great on the highway and around town And its not so big that I need a flagger to get me into a parking space Its great for lugging the kids their stuff and friends around and looks great not the mother ship (aka minivan) and its not like driving a grayhound (Giant SUV)
greatest on earth
i love my vechile
Love my Montero
When we were looking for a family vehicle we were testing Minivans and had decided to get a Honda however we fell in love with the Montero. I feel that this SUV rides more like a car than other SUV's we've tested ie: the Pilot, CR-V and Endeavor. If you have older kids this was a better fit. There is lots of room in the front and second seat. The third row seat meant for two additional passengers is really poorly designed, my ten year old has a hard time. It is really comfortable when we travel with the family. There is plenty of room for bags and luggage. Overall we really love this SUV.
Solid SUV
I just purchased this SUV after 6 months of research. After test driving almost all equivelent SUVs I found this one to come out on top in all catagories with the exception of its underpowered motor. The interior is laid out nicely but I am not a big fan of wood grain interiors. That is a personal preference so if you like that sort of thing this SUV has plenty to offer. I highly endorse this vehicle to anyone.
Fun to Drive
This has been my first SUV's and after lookng at several this one suited my needs in terms of having a good amount of space and not spending the money for an Escalade or Navigator. It is a very comftorable ride and isn't as bad on gas as some other larger SUV's. I am a little dissapointed in the overall handling for highway driving and I think they could improve the 3rd row seating.
Love My New Montero
Looked at lots of SUV's and chose the Montero for all of the standard features that seem to be options on the others...which made the price tag very comparable. I got the XLS with the touring package. I live on a mountain and the Montero performed unbelievably during a recent snowstorm. I literally drove straight up the mountain around stuck cars and trucks as if there was no snow at all. The infinity sound system sounds great and the sunroof is HUGE! I especially like the 'escaine' seating surfaces, whch can best be described as perforated suede. I will update my review, but so far I woould definately recommend this vehicle to anyone.