Mitsubishi Pajero · SUV
Strong 3.2-litre diesel with common-rail injection. The main Pajero engine across three generations. Timing chain is long-lived, but EGR and DPF issues with short-trip use. Check injectors above 200,000 km.
Diesel base in the Pajero
The 3.2 DI-D with 165 hp is the entry-level engine. Enough for daily use, slightly tight on the motorway.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The upper plastic timing chain guide wears and breaks up. Metal debris enters the oil system. With incorrect engine rotation direction the chain tensioner can jump out and destroy the engine.
Symptoms: Rattling from the timing chain area on cold start, rough running, in the worst case engine failure
Common-rail injectors tend to build up deposits and wear at higher mileages. Failed injectors can cause piston damage, documented in forums at 103,000–109,000 km.
Symptoms: Rough idle, smoke clouds on start, power loss, increased fuel consumption
The EGR valve and EGR cooler block with soot deposits. Removal is very labour-intensive — the cooling system, drive belt, alternator, and turbo hoses all have to come off first.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, check engine light
At high mileage oil consumption rises noticeably — forum reports mention up to 350 ml per 1,000 km. Cause is usually piston ring wear or leaking valve stem seals.
Symptoms: Frequent oil top-ups required, slight blue smoke from exhaust under acceleration
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Completely inadequate cavity and underbody sealing from the factory. Floor panels with box reinforcements, doors and wings rust quickly. The spare wheel carrier chafes and corrodes. Aftermarket protection in the first year strongly recommended.
On the 200 hp version the electronics throttle torque to protect the automatic gearbox. The gearbox is considered a weak point and responds sluggishly under high load. Regular gearbox oil changes are essential.
Water enters the cabin during deeper water crossings. Door seals and cable glands are not sufficiently waterproofed. Electrical damage from moisture in the footwells is the consequence.
ABS wheel speed sensors oxidise and deliver false signals. The four-wheel-drive electronics (Super Select II) show sporadic failures. Surface rust on suspension components accelerates corrosion of sensor cables and connectors.
The suspension is set up very firmly from the factory; every road imperfection is felt clearly. Unlike its predecessor, there is no adjustable damping. Shock absorbers and bushings wear faster with frequent off-road use.
The plastic bumpers are too fragile for off-road use and crack quickly on contact with stones or branches. Many owners upgrade to steel bumpers, although this can affect the vehicle's type approval.
