Is the 1998 Mitsubishi Montero reliable?

It can be reliable when maintained, but age-related wear is the main factor today. A Montero with documented cooling system and transmission service is typically a safer buy than one with unknown history.

What are the most common 1998 Mitsubishi Montero problems?

Frequently reported issues include automatic transmission shifting problems, cooling system failures that cause overheating, worn suspension/steering parts, and rust in salt-belt vehicles.

Are maintenance costs high for a 1998 Montero?

Costs are usually moderate for a body-on-frame 4WD SUV, but deferred maintenance can be expensive. Budget for suspension wear items, fluid services, and cooling system refreshes if records are incomplete.

What are the best years to buy in the Montero lineup?

Many shoppers prefer later second-generation and well-kept third-generation examples due to updates and availability of better-maintained vehicles. The “best year” is often the one with the cleanest frame and the strongest service history.

What should I check before buying a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero?

Check for rust underneath, confirm 4WD engagement and low range operation, look for any overheating signs, review transmission behavior on a long test drive, and inspect suspension/steering for looseness or clunks. For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim information, and the recommended maintenance schedules to keep a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero running strong.

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

1998 Mitsubishi Montero Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A formidable off-road icon that demands diligent maintenance and a keen eye for common age-related failures.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1998 Mitsubishi Montero

Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the equipment:other:labels.
Outscores the 1996 Mitsubishi Montero by 8 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: frame and body rust (major severity).

Should You Buy the 1998 Mitsubishi Montero?

The 1998 Mitsubishi Montero offers serious off-road capability and a robust chassis for those seeking adventure on a budget. However, be prepared for significant age-related maintenance and the potential for costly repairs, particularly concerning frame rust and the temperamental 3.5L engine. It's a buy for enthusiasts and DIYers, but a risky proposition for the uninitiated.

Biggest Strengths

Rugged body-on-frame construction
Highly capable Super Select 4WD system
Spacious and versatile interior

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 1998 Mitsubishi Montero. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Frame and Body Rustmajor

3.5L DOHC Engine Reliabilitymajor

Suspension & Steeringmoderate

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

NHTSA Recalls

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ACCESSORY CARGO MATS IN THE THIRD-SEAT AND CARGO AREA. THIS CARGO MAT INTERFERES WITH THE LATCHING INTEGRITY OF THE FOLDING THIRD SEATS.

What breaks on the 1998 Mitsubishi Montero?

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

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Mitsubishi Montero by Year

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

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

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

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Frequently Asked Questions

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