I just picked up a 2002 montero limited a few months back. The vehicle didn't start when I checked it out. I was able to get it running like crap but running enough to limp it home. CEL said bad o2, bad MAF, and lights keep going off for the C/L. I wanted a 7 seater SUV so I picked up and started working on it to get it on the road. So far I changed the battery, abs accumulator, and MAF sensor. That all cleared the codes and I was able to pass smog. Most the of the answers I found on the issues were found here and I wanted to thank you guys for that. Looking forward to build this for light duty trails and and daily family mover.
New to monteros and picked up a 3rd gen
- Thread starter BstrdJ
- Start date
I just picked up a 2002 montero limited a few months back. The vehicle didn't start when I checked it out. I was able to get it running like crap but running enough to limp it home. CEL said bad o2, bad MAF, and lights keep going off for the C/L. I wanted a 7 seater SUV so I picked up and started working on it to get it on the road. So far I changed the battery, abs accumulator, and MAF sensor. That all cleared the codes and I was able to pass smog. Most the of the answers I found on the issues were found here and I wanted to thank you guys for that. Looking forward to build this for light duty trails and and daily family mover.
ChrisCosta416
Well-known member
Welcome!
Timing belt @140k it has 215k now and radiator and cooling replaced 2 yrs ago. Is there a newbie checklist for 3gs? What other places to find good support on the monty? I thought being a Japanese vehicle and its dakar heritage there would be a bigger aftermarket but its hard to find stuff. So far I'm having fun!
ChrisCosta416
Well-known member
I have a Gen3 maintenance sheet posted up here and on the Montero FB pages. I also have a suspension sheet
plh
Explorer
currently 15K past due...
After driving this thing around for the past couple of weeks I'm thinking how much I want to dive into the rabbit hole. I love the size of it and want to keep it but should I move into a 2003 and up gen3? What are the biggest difference other the 4wd and the 3.8l motor? Any advise from owners of both?
I have a 3.8L, I actually think the front bumper and fog lights from the 3.5L model looks way better. The 3.8L is supposed to have better gas mileage. I believe the differences are very minor and you might as well keep the one you have, unless it is a rough example or something.
normal_dave
waytoomuchwritinginposts.
Biggest difference is that the 3.8L engine has more torque, and the 03+ has an amazingly capable electronic traction control. Other than that, I really like my '02. I drive it everyday, work out of it from time to time, tow my camping trailer with it, and occasionally fill it up with folks.
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