The Good
The 2005 Mitsubishi Montero offers strong off-road performance and a comfortable ride, appealing to adventurous buyers. Its spacious interior and refined design provide practicality and a touch of luxury. While not the most fuel-efficient, its long-term reliability (when properly maintained) and solid build quality offer good value for the price, satisfying both emotional and practical needs.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero include relatively poor fuel economy compared to its rivals. Watch out for potential issues with the automatic transmission, especially with irregular maintenance. Rust can also be a concern in colder climates, especially underneath the vehicle. Check for proper functioning of the Super Select 4WD system.
2005 Mitsubishi Montero: Quick Overview
- Engine: 3.8L SOHC V6
- Horsepower: 215 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (estimated)
- 0-60 mph: Around 9.5 seconds (estimated)
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
- Trim Levels and Features:
- XLS: Standard features include alloy wheels, keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and a CD player. It also included the Super Select 4WD system.
- Limited: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, automatic climate control, upgraded audio system (Infinity), and wood trim. It also typically included a rear differential lock for improved off-road capability.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive (Super Select 4WD)
The Super Select 4WD system is a key feature, allowing drivers to shift between 2WD, 4WD High, 4WD High with locked center differential, and 4WD Low with locked center differential. This provides versatility for on-road and off-road driving conditions. The suspension is independent front and rear, contributing to a comfortable ride. The Montero also features a unibody construction, which helps reduce weight and improve handling compared to body-on-frame SUVs.
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Montero |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
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| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero Have?
While specific recalls for the 2005 model year may be found on the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov), common areas to check are for recalls related to airbags, braking systems, or fuel system components. Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Neglecting scheduled services can lead to premature wear and tear on components like the timing belt (which should be replaced at regular intervals), suspension parts, and cooling system. The oxygen sensors are known to sometimes fail at higher mileage. Check engine lights are not uncommon, so thorough diagnosis is important.
How long will the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Tech and Entertainment: Standard features typically included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Higher trims, like the Limited, featured an upgraded Infinity audio system with multiple speakers. Navigation was not commonly available as a factory option in 2005. There were no advanced smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Driver-Assistance: The Montero lacked advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or blind-spot monitoring. Basic cruise control was standard.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included antilock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags (depending on the trim). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not standard on all trims, but it was available.
Crash-Test Ratings: The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash test ratings can be found on their respective websites. It is important to consult these official sources for specific safety performance data. Keep in mind that crash test standards have evolved significantly since 2005, so comparing these ratings directly to newer vehicles may not be representative of real-world performance relative to current safety standards. The Montero was considered reasonably safe for its time, but its safety technology is dated by today's standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Prices and Market Value
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Cost of Ownership
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Fuel Efficiency
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 Mitsubishi Montero Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero Compare to Other Vehicle?
Feature-wise, the Montero was adequately equipped for its time, but rivals often offered more modern amenities. Regarding price, the Montero was generally competitive, but its depreciation has made it an attractive used option.
Alternatives to consider include: the Toyota 4Runner (for superior reliability and off-road capability, albeit at a higher price), the Jeep Grand Cherokee (for a blend of luxury and off-road prowess), and the Nissan Xterra (for a more budget-friendly off-road focused SUV). If reliability is a top priority, the 4Runner is generally considered a better choice. If budget is a primary concern, the Xterra is a viable alternative. The Montero offers a good balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort, but buyers should be prepared for potential maintenance costs.
Ranks #1746 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1746 | 2005 Mitsubishi Montero | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero a Good Vehicle?
177monty on December 19, 2017
Old school coolI always liked the rugged look of the montero. It took awhile to find a nice one but the wait was worth it. Feels cool to ride in this unique truck
Tundraguy on July 11, 2017
Capable off road machine and hauls the familyI bought my Montero used. It currently has 185000 miles and runs great. The interior has held up awesome no rips in the leather or broken plastics. We get over 20mpg while on trips with 7 people and hiking/camping gear. And the best thing about it was it only cost $3500!!
SUV Enthusiast on February 24, 2012
Great TruckThere is a reason these rigs have a cult following. Solid build construction and proven performance. Vehicle has one of the highest owner satisfaction rates. There is a reason for that! The Montero performs dutifully.
Lives in Flood Zone on January 23, 2009
Most well rounded vehicleComfortable, easy to drive, and give you the confidence you can drive just about anywhere, tight spots in the city or off road. Load up the family too.
ART056 on February 28, 2007
MONTERO FOR THE SECOND TIMETHIS IS THE SECOND MITSUBISHI MONTERO THAT I HAD OWNED .SO FAR SO GOOD NO COMPLAIN SAME AS MY 2001 MONTERO.RELIABILITY IS EXCELLENT. THE ONLY SUGGESTION THAT I CAN SAY IS THE GAS MILEAGE.OVERALL IT IS THE BEST CAR THAT I EVER HAD .NO PROBLEM .
177monty on December 19, 2017
Old school coolI always liked the rugged look of the montero. It took awhile to find a nice one but the wait was worth it. Feels cool to ride in this unique truck
Tundraguy on July 11, 2017
Capable off road machine and hauls the familyI bought my Montero used. It currently has 185000 miles and runs great. The interior has held up awesome no rips in the leather or broken plastics. We get over 20mpg while on trips with 7 people and hiking/camping gear. And the best thing about it was it only cost $3500!!
SUV Enthusiast on February 24, 2012
Great TruckThere is a reason these rigs have a cult following. Solid build construction and proven performance. Vehicle has one of the highest owner satisfaction rates. There is a reason for that! The Montero performs dutifully.
Lives in Flood Zone on January 23, 2009
Most well rounded vehicleComfortable, easy to drive, and give you the confidence you can drive just about anywhere, tight spots in the city or off road. Load up the family too.
ART056 on February 28, 2007
MONTERO FOR THE SECOND TIMETHIS IS THE SECOND MITSUBISHI MONTERO THAT I HAD OWNED .SO FAR SO GOOD NO COMPLAIN SAME AS MY 2001 MONTERO.RELIABILITY IS EXCELLENT. THE ONLY SUGGESTION THAT I CAN SAY IS THE GAS MILEAGE.OVERALL IT IS THE BEST CAR THAT I EVER HAD .NO PROBLEM .
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.