Is the Mitsubishi Montero Reliable?
1997–2006 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other suvs — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Mitsubishi Montero? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Mitsubishi Montero Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 0 | 1 | — | — | 72 | Good |
| 2005 | 0 | 1 | — | — | 72 | Good |
| 2004 | 2 | 5 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2003 | 2 | 32 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2002 | 2 | 66 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2001 | 1 | 112 | 7 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2000 | 2 | 32 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1999 | 2 | 24 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1998 | 2 | 46 | 18 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 0 | 38 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Montero Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Montero scores 3 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Known Mitsubishi Montero Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 357 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mitsubishi Montero reliable?+
The Mitsubishi Montero scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 13 recall campaigns and 357 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Montero is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2006 Montero achieved the highest reliability score of 72/100 with 0 recalls and 1 complaints.
How many miles does a Montero last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Mitsubishi Montero owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Montero will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Mitsubishi Montero Research
Check a Specific Mitsubishi Montero VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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