Used Mitsubishi Pajero

What to know before buying: Mitsubishi Pajero

From 2 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The fourth-generation Pajero combines Super Select II four-wheel drive, independent suspension and strong off-road ability.[1][3]Fourth generation
• It is spacious in five-seat form, but cargo room shrinks sharply with the third row raised, and adults will not enjoy sitting there.[1][2][3]Fourth generation
• The cabin is durable and functional but visibly dated; equipment and infotainment vary substantially by year and trim.[1][3][5]Fourth generation
• Ride assessments differ: one test praises its soft highway ride, while another finds an older example busy and unsettled over bumps.[3][1]Fourth generation

Typical faults

• The 4M41 diesel is known for timing-chain failure; the source advises replacing the upper guide around 90,000 km and adjusting valve clearances every 30,000 km.[1]one sourceFourth generation

  4M41

• There are many reports of fourth-generation air-conditioning failure; repairs can require dashboard removal, making the job expensive.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• Check for rust beneath seals and around the doors, roof and rear arches; salted-road cars have also been reported with corrosion damage to the fuel tank.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• On the 00–07 Pajero, the gearbox may fail before 100,000 km; one 3.2 Di-D owner also reported a five-speed automatic failure after roughly two years.[6][4]

  2000–2007 · 3.2 Di-D

• The 00–07 Pajero may need substantial suspension work and replacement brake discs at around 100,000 km.[6]one source

  100 000–100 000 km · 2000–2007

• One owner of a 2005 3.2 Di-D called the wheel bearings a weak point and also repaired air-conditioning pipes within two years.[4]one source

  2005–2005 · 3.2 Di-D

Which engine and version to take

• The fourth-generation 4M41 diesel is regarded as very reliable when properly serviced, including valve adjustment and preventive timing-guide replacement.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• Owner reviews praise the 3.2 Di-D for durability and off-road ability, but transmission, fuel-pump and maintenance history deserve close scrutiny.[4]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Inspect beneath the seals, around the doors and roof, the rear arches, underside and fuel tank for corrosion.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• Check underbody protection, door skins and seals, and bumper corners; deformation or impact marks may reveal hard off-road use.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• Test the air conditioning and every accessory, including any winch, auxiliary lights and aftermarket infotainment.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• On the test drive, listen for mechanical noises, feel for vibration and accelerate firmly in a straight line while checking for black or coloured exhaust smoke.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• For a 4M41 diesel, seek evidence of valve-clearance adjustment, timing-guide prevention, frequent oil services and fuel-filter replacement.[1]one sourceFourth generation
• Confirm that the Takata airbag recall repair has been completed.[1]one sourceFourth generation

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]ReDriven — Should the Mitsubishi Pajero be the forgotten 4x4? | ReDriven used car review · ▶ video
2. [2]BabyDrive.com.au — Family car review: Mitsubishi Pajero 2019 · ▶ video
3. [3]iauto.lv — Pēdējais "Mitsubishi" 4x4 mohikānis "Pajero" (+ FOTO) · forum
4. [4]whatcar.lv — Mitsubishi Pajero (00-07) Atsauksmes par auto - WhatCar.lv · press
5. [5]tvnet.lv — Pirmie iespaidi: Mitsubishi Pajero · press
6. [6]whatcar.lv — Kopējais iespaids - Mitsubishi Pajero (00-07) - What Car? · press

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