Montero Sport (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
3.5-V6-Gas
3.5L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Mitsubishi Montero Sport Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.8-V6-Gas
3.8L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
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.
Recalls (2)
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHTS AS STATED ON THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL ARE IN ERROR.
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.