Opinions on Montero Sport

[Bugslinger]

Hey Guys,
I am looking for a cheap vehicle that I can drive daily, and will run for a long time. One of my friends mentioned a Montero Sport, I have been looking at them online, and reading about them and they seem to be alright. I am just wondering if anyone has any experience with them, and willing to share their opinions. Thanks.

 

[jeep-N-montero]

Might have better luck asking in the Mitsubishi section of the forum, this section is for people selling vehicles.

 

[Bugslinger]

Agreed, but it is a little like asking someone about what their kid isn't good at.

 

[Scootr]

I loved my 2001 Montero Sport LS 4WD. The only finicky thing was the 4WD light/switch wouldn't come on once in a while (I drowned it in mud/water and it needed to be replaced). Only reason I traded it in was because I wanted a pick up truck (which was promptly stolen). I would buy another if I were in the market. I think Mitsubishi did the Sport a dis-service when they replaced it with the more carlike Outlander but I'm a fan of truck based SUV's (LOVE my Xterra).

Things I learned while I owned it:
1. Timing belts need to be replaced every 60k miles so make sure it's been done.
2. The tranny is SUPER picky about fluid (I had a shop once fill it with the wrong type of fluid and it would foam up and overheat) this is a typical complaint. Check the tranny fluid before you buy. if it smells burnt or looks foamy after a test drive be wary about buying it. Know that it may have a future issue.
3. The 3L motor (which I had) moves the vehicle but you can't be in a hurry. If you have a chance to get a 3.5L I'd say do it. The drawback is that the 3.5L later models were all AWD vs 4WD with a transfer case (if you want 4WD it's something to consider).
4. OME makes a good lift - get the medium springs unless you want a bumper. The ride with the heavy springs is pretty harsh otherwise.
5. The back seats recline - and kinda makes them more comfy (something my Xterra doesn't have)
6. Rear windows roll down completely.

Hope that helps.

 

[Bugslinger]

Yes, thank you, that is all good information. You also bring up the Xterra, which I think I should also consider.

 

[PirateMcGee]

Find a montero sport 3.5xs they have the larger 3.5 motor (moves the vehicle really well and is perfectly matched to the size) but they still have the standard 2hi,4hi,4low (so you can swap to manual hubs). Simple, rugged, reliable, there's not a ton of aftermarket but enough for most things, get better fuel economy than comparable vehicles, quite a bit of room etc. Best value around for this size of 4wd in my opinion and I did a TON of research before picking a sport.

 

[PaladinTrucks]

Go for a full size montero, much more capable vehicle. Get an SR and you will have a locking rear diff and the 3.5 motor. I am a little biased as I am on my 11 Montero...