Is the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero reliable?

It can be reliable when maintained, but condition matters more than mileage; cooling system health, rust level, and front-end wear are the biggest deciding factors.

What are the most common 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero problems?

The most common issues include overheating from aging cooling components, rust in the frame and body, oil leaks from old seals and gaskets, and worn steering/suspension parts causing looseness or vibration.

Are maintenance costs high for a 1987 Pajero?

Routine maintenance is usually manageable, but costs rise if you’re catching up on deferred service, chasing rust repair, or sourcing market-specific parts for certain engines and trims.

What are the best years of Mitsubishi Pajero to buy?

Many buyers prefer later first-generation examples with documented maintenance or well-kept second-generation models for refinement; the “best year” is the one with the cleanest frame, best service records, and lowest rust regardless of model year.

What should I check before buying a 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero?

Check for frame and floor rust, stable operating temperature on a long test drive, smooth 4WD/transfer case engagement, oil/coolant leaks, and front-end play or wandering that indicates worn steering and suspension parts. Get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, factory capacities, and maintenance schedules to keep your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero dependable for the long haul.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A legendary and capable off-roader that demands consistent care and a keen eye for its age-related vulnerabilities.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero

The system most likely to surface first: chassis and body rust (critical severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 1987 model year.
Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1985 Mitsubishi Pajero earns a 78.

Is the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Worth Buying?

The 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero is a classic, rugged off-roader with a reputation for solid mechanicals, but its advanced age introduces significant maintenance considerations. While inherently robust, expect to commit to regular preventative work and potential repairs to address wear and tear, especially if considering an example from a rust-prone region. This is a capable and charming vehicle, but certainly not a 'set it and forget it' proposition.

Biggest Strengths

Rugged body-on-frame construction
Capable 4WD system (Super Select on some models)
Relatively simple mechanics for DIY repairs

What Tends to Fail First on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero

The systems that break first on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Chassis and Body Rustcritical

Fuel Delivery System (Gasoline)moderate

Drivetrain Bushings & Sealsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Recall History

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Mitsubishi Pajero Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mitsubishi Pajero. Click any year for its full report.

All Mitsubishi Pajero years ranked →Mitsubishi Pajero years to avoid →Mitsubishi Pajero common problems →

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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