Mitsubishi

Montero Sport (1st)

2000-2004 · Compact Sedan · 4 engines
Best Engine ⚠️ Caution (2.6)
488 NHTSA Complaints
2 Recalls
10 Fire Reports
71 Crash Reports
📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
2/5
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
2/5
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
2/5
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No

Engine Reliability Ratings

3.5-V6-Gas

3.5L 6-cyl
⚠️ Caution (2.6)
178 complaints 35.6 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

brakes
78
electrical
25
engine
22
cooling
20
safety systems
17

Known Issues

Brakes Issues (78 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (25 complaints)
Engine Issues (22 complaints)

Same engine used in

+71 more
CHRYSLER LHS (2000-2001)TOYOTA Avalon (2013-2018)CHRYSLER Concorde (2000-2004)KIA Amanti (2004-2009)FORD Fusion (2006-2012)MERCEDES-BENZ R-Class (2006-2013)LEXUS IS (2014-2025)FORD F-150 (2004-2008)NISSAN Murano (2009-2014)LINCOLN MKX (2007-2015)MERCEDES-BENZ CLA-Class (2014-2019)FORD Transit (2015-2025)LINCOLN MKZ (2007-2012)FORD Edge (2007-2014)CHRYSLER Town & Country (2008-2016)FORD Taurus (2010-2019)FORD Taurus (2008-2009)MERCEDES-BENZ GLA-Class (2015-2019)CHRYSLER Sebring (2007-2010)DODGE Ram (2000-2001)FORD F-150 (2015-2020)FORD Edge (2015-2024)JEEP Grand Cherokee (2000-2004)FORD Taurus (2000-2007)FORD Flex (2009-2019)INFINITI QX50 (2008-2017)INFINITI Q70 (2006-2010)JEEP Grand Cherokee (2005-2010)INFINITI QX60 (2013-2020)FORD F-150 (2009-2014)DODGE Journey (2009-2020)CHRYSLER Sebring (2001-2006)MERCEDES-BENZ GLE-Class (2012-2019)HYUNDAI Santa Fe (2001-2006)KIA Sorento (2011-2015)DODGE Charger (2006-2010)CHRYSLER Pacifica (2004-2008)NISSAN Altima (2013-2018)INFINITI QX4 (2000-2003)MITSUBISHI Eclipse (2000-2005)HYUNDAI Santa Fe (2007-2012)NISSAN Maxima (2004-2008)NISSAN Pathfinder (2013-2020)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2001-2007)DODGE Stratus (2001-2006)LINCOLN MKT (2010-2019)NISSAN Murano (2015-2025)NISSAN Pathfinder (2005-2012)DODGE Neon (2000-2005)LINCOLN MKZ (2013-2020)FORD Expedition (2007-2017)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2008-2014)DODGE Intrepid (2000-2004)FORD F-150 (2021-2025)MERCEDES-BENZ GLS-Class (2013-2019)CHRYSLER 300 (2005-2010)HYUNDAI XG350 (2001-2005)NISSAN Maxima (2009-2014)DODGE Magnum (2005-2008)NISSAN Altima (2007-2012)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2010-2016)HYUNDAI Santa Fe (2013-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2024-2026)RAM 2500 (2010-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class (2014-2020)KIA Sorento (2003-2009)MITSUBISHI Lancer (2002-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2015-2021)DODGE Avenger (2008-2014)LEXUS RX (2016-2022)FORD F-150 (2000-2003)

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Unidentified Engine

⚠️ Caution (2.6)
114 complaints 28.5 per year
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

brakes
27
transmission
21
engine
15
safety systems
14
cooling
12

Known Issues

Brakes Issues (27 complaints)
Transmission Issues (21 complaints)
Engine Issues (15 complaints)

3.8-V6-Gas

3.8L 6-cyl
Avoid (1.9)
29 complaints 14.5 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

brakes
9
fuel system
6
engine
3
cooling
3
transmission
3

Known Issues

Brakes Issues (9 complaints)
Fuel System Issues (6 complaints)
Engine Issues (3 complaints)

3.0-V6-Gas

3.0L 6-cyl
Avoid (1.3)
160 complaints 40.0 per year Gasoline
7 fire reports 3 fatalities
View details

Complaint Breakdown

engine
26
transmission
24
brakes
23
safety systems
21
cooling
20

Known Issues

Engine Issues (26 complaints)
Transmission Issues (24 complaints)
Brakes Issues (23 complaints)

Same engine used in

+91 more
BMW 5 Series (2024-2026)BMW X3 (2011-2017)MAZDA Mazda6 (2003-2008)FORD Ranger (2019-2025)AUDI A6 (2019-2025)AUDI Q7 (2017-2025)BMW X6 (2015-2019)FORD Focus (2000-2007)AUDI A5 (2008-2016)FORD Fusion (2006-2012)FORD Escape (2001-2007)MAZDA B-Series (2000-2009)LINCOLN Town Car (2000-2011)BMW X5 (2014-2018)BMW X7 (2019-2025)AUDI A8 (2019-2025)FORD Five Hundred (2005-2007)BMW 3 Series (2012-2018)BMW 4 Series (2014-2020)BMW X3 (2025-2026)BMW 2 Series (2022-2025)JEEP Cherokee (2014-2023)AUDI A7 (2019-2025)AUDI A6 (2000-2004)FORD Windstar (2000-2003)BMW X6 (2020-2025)BMW 5 Series (2011-2016)FORD Taurus (2010-2019)PORSCHE Macan (2015-2024)FORD Taurus (2008-2009)AUDI A6 (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class (2006-2011)BMW X5 (2019-2025)MERCEDES-BENZ SL-Class (2013-2020)DODGE Ram (2000-2001)BMW X4 (2015-2018)DODGE Grand Caravan (2001-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2017-2023)JEEP Grand Cherokee (2000-2004)FORD Taurus (2000-2007)FORD Escape (2008-2012)AUDI A4 (2009-2016)FORD Flex (2009-2019)BMW 2 Series (2014-2021)BMW X4 (2019-2025)AUDI A7 (2012-2018)SUBARU Legacy (2000-2004)BMW 3 Series (2019-2025)JEEP Patriot (2007-2017)FORD E-Series (2000-2025)AUDI A4 (2006-2008)FORD Escape (2013-2019)BMW 4 Series (2021-2025)LINCOLN LS (2000-2006)BMW 5 Series (2017-2023)FORD Focus (2012-2018)CHRYSLER Pacifica (2004-2008)MITSUBISHI Eclipse (2000-2005)BMW 3 Series (2006-2011)AUDI Q5 (2009-2017)LINCOLN Aviator (2003-2005)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2001-2007)BMW Z4 (2019-2025)AUDI A4 (2017-2025)FORD Freestyle (2005-2007)MAZDA Tribute (2001-2011)BMW 7 Series (2023-2025)LINCOLN MKZ (2013-2020)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2008-2014)AUDI A8 (2011-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ GLS-Class (2013-2019)FORD Escort (2000-2003)PORSCHE 911 (2020-2025)FORD Ranger (2000-2011)AUDI Q8 (2019-2025)BMW 7 Series (2016-2022)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2010-2016)BMW 8 Series (2019-2025)FORD Fusion (2013-2020)FORD Super Duty (2000-2007)MITSUBISHI Lancer (2002-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2015-2021)BMW 6 Series (2012-2018)PORSCHE 911 (2012-2019)FORD Mustang (2000-2004)PORSCHE Cayenne (2019-2025)FORD F-150 (2000-2003)AUDI A4 (2002-2005)AUDI Q5 (2018-2025)AUDI Q7 (2007-2015)

2 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Mitsubishi Montero Sport regardless of engine variant.

Brakes Issues (138 complaints)
brakes critical
Engine Issues (66 complaints)
engine critical
Safety Systems Issues (53 complaints)
safety_systems critical
Cooling System Issues (52 complaints)
cooling critical
Transmission Issues (46 complaints)
transmission critical

Recalls (2)

04V095000Feb 19, 2004cosmetic
Equipment

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHTS AS STATED ON THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL ARE IN ERROR.

01V027000May 1, 2001serious
Service Brakes

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5L ENGINES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES." THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH NONCOMPLIANT BRAKE VACUUM HOSES.

Alternatives in Compact Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport problems?

The 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport has accumulated 488 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Brakes, Engine, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Mitsubishi Montero Sport engine is most reliable?

The 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport was offered with 6 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.5L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport a good used car?

The 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 488 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport have?

The 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport has 488 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport?

There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Mitsubishi Montero Sport?

Before buying a used Mitsubishi Montero Sport, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Brakes, Engine, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Montero Sport?

The 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 2 stars. Electronic Stability Control: No. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 488 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-20.

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