Looking at buying a 3rd Gen Montero Limited, any helpful information?

[Rotarial]

I am very interested in buying like a 2001 Montero Limited full size not the sport and am just wondering if there are any major issues with that year or some of the common issues to look for or worry about when looking for one? I am more than likely not going to be doing any major off roading or anything, but possibly a little. Mainly wanting a winter driver and for more room than my Jetta. Never owned a Montero before but have always liked them and heard good things about them, just curious if there are any major problems with them since most will now have 150k+ miles on them. Thanks for any help you can provide

 

[jeep-N-montero]

Did you read any of the existing threads discussing the 3rd gen on here?

 

[Marutuk]

This thread has some answers on some common issues with Gen 3's.

But owning one, I can say that it's a capable car, both on and off road. Stock gen 3's will do quite decent off road as long as you're not doing anything too crazy.

 

[Rotarial]

Thanks very much for the replies. I have been searching the forums for some information, there seems to be a lot. Think I have narrowed my search down to a 2003 for the 3.8L engine. Still doing some research but very very interested now. They seem to be pretty great and underrated vehicles here in the states.

 

[montypower]

Thanks very much for the replies. I have been searching the forums for some information, there seems to be a lot. Think I have narrowed my search down to a 2003 for the 3.8L engine. Still doing some research but very very interested now. They seem to be pretty great and underrated vehicles here in the states.

Mine has been a great truck. Keep in mind with any older vehicle 10yrs + you'll want to start replacing bushings, hoses and seals. Use factory parts and fluids. Transmission fluid absolutely should be dealer only. Timing belt service required on time. You'll want to replace other common wear items when timing belt is done: water pump, idler pulleys, tensioner, crank seal, cam seals, crank sensor. Valve cover gaskets will fail similar time and fill spark plug holes with oil. You'll also want to do rear cam seal (pass side) 10 min job.

Otherwise, just normal maintenance and upkeep. I've replaced a ton of parts on mine, preventative measures. Been extremely reliable.