Mitsubishi Pajero III (1999-2006) - Dakar legend

The first Pajero rolled off the assembly line in 1982. The second generation went into production in 1992, and the third in 1999. The fourth generation - an improved version of the third - debuted in 2007 and owes its popularity to the numerous successes of the Pajero III in Dakar.

Interior.

Inside Mitsubishi Pajero III is not too original and refined. Do not amaze with their quality and finishing materials. The front panel, simplified to the limit, is crowned by a large steering wheel. The impeccably sounding factory audio package deserves approval. If we need a big, safe, simple and functional car, then the Mitsubishi Pajero is the best choice.

Equipment.

Mitsubishi Pajero III already in the basic version is equipped with almost everything necessary for a comfortable trip. Leather, huge front seats with a fantastic profile and power. In addition, the owner has a third row of seats at his disposal, allowing you to take on board up to 7 people. However, passengers in the gallery will not feel like in a premium class. However, the solution itself is very practical. The spacious trunk is able to absorb up to 600 liters of luggage. If necessary, a Japanese SUV is ready to tow a trailer weighing more than 3 tons.

Petrol engines.

The 3.5 GDI petrol engine does not cause big problems in operation. Sometimes there is contamination of the throttle valve assembly. Due to the use of direct fuel injection, the installation of a system for operation on liquefied gas is not economically effective, since fuel consumption is quite high - at least 18 l / 100 km. From this position, the 3.8-liter V6, which was used on the Mitsubishi Pajero from the USA, is considered the most advantageous for installing gas equipment. However, SUVs from across the ocean are quite rare.

Diesel engines.

The weakest turbodiesel with a working volume of 2.5 liters is very rare. Much more often, diesel Mitsubishi Pajero IIIs are equipped with a 16-valve 4-cylinder 3.2 DID unit, in which direct injection is implemented by means of a pump. In the gas distribution mechanism of this diesel engine, two camshafts are driven by a chain. However, guide chains are subject to rapid wear. In some cases, the chain may even jump a few links. Also, due to the failure of the sensors, a fuel pump, fully controlled by electronics, may stand up. Worse, if he began to drive chips - the speed floats, the engine stalls or does not start. The design of the pump is similar to that used in Volkswagen TDI diesels. Therefore, the repair should not be any difficulties. However, it should be borne in mind that access to the pump is difficult, as a result of which it is almost impossible to remove it yourself. Remanufacturing high pressure fuel pumps is expensive from $1,000 to $2,000, and used (used) pumps are simply priceless. It is better if this is done by specialists with experience in this type of repair.

Inside the pump is a membrane that is quickly damaged when in contact with water or air. Taking immediate action will help avoid major repairs. Service costs about $500. The first symptoms of a malfunction: Check Engine indicator or loud and uneven engine operation. Refueling with good quality fuel and more frequent replacement of the fuel filter - once every 5000 km will help to extend the life of the pump. Some also install an additional fuel filter and empty the tank to completely get rid of the water.

It should be noted that in the samples of the first years of production, burnout of the pistons occurred. I also had to upgrade the EGR exhaust gas recirculation system and install a more efficient cooler. In addition, the manufacturer recommended to replace the oil dipstick, which showed the wrong oil level.

Transmission.

All Mitsubishi Pajero with gasoline engines were equipped with an automatic transmission - 4-speed INVECS and 5-speed INVECS II. In diesel modifications, the machine was installed only on request. Sometimes in machines there is wear on friction discs and failure of solenoid valves. Often the reason is too infrequent oil changes.

All versions of the Mitsubishi Pajero III are equipped with the advanced Super Select II all-wheel drive system with full electronic control and a central differential that allows you to change transmission modes while driving. In normal mode, the thrust is distributed along the axes in a ratio of 33:67. If you block the center differential, then the thrust along the axes will be distributed equally, i.e. 50:50. The driver also has a gearbox at his disposal, and in extreme cases, you can even block the rear axle. The all-wheel drive system is the strength of the Mitsubishi Pajero, because it almost never causes problems.

One of the points of inspection is the drive axle.

Body.

The creators of the Mitsubishi Pajero III abandoned the frame in favor of a reinforced self-supporting body. This did not affect the off-road capabilities of the car. For active off-road trips, the three-door version of the SUV is the best fit.

Suspension.

A characteristic feature of the third generation Pajero is the use of an independent suspension. This scheme has many advantages and disadvantages. The car is comfortable and obedient, like a passenger car. However, in the field, the suspension is less durable.

Failures.

At one time, the Mitsubishi Pajero III was not the cheapest car in its class. Despite this, the SUV is not without flaws. The vast majority of pre-styling copies (until 2003) have corrosion problems. Moreover, not only body elements suffer, but even rims, heater and air conditioning pipes. Another common defect is front wheel bearings. If noise is heard from the front wheels while driving, then the faulty assembly must be replaced immediately. It is better not to delay the repair, otherwise the ABS sensor may subsequently fail. Which will greatly increase the cost. Another drawback: corrosion of threaded connections of suspension elements. Often, in order to replace a component, the bolts have to be cut off, for which the service asks for additional money.

Approximate cost of spare parts.

Conclusion.

Mitsubishi Pajero III can be considered a worthy choice due to the relatively few problems and good practicality. However, it must be borne in mind that prices in the secondary market, maintenance and repair are not low. If you still decide to buy a Mitsubishi Pajero, then you should not waste time looking at cheap offers. It is better to focus on finding well-groomed specimens, which will undoubtedly pay off in the future.