--- title: "Mitsubishi Pajero IV Reliability: Common Problems, Real-World Issues, and How to Keep It Running Strong" id: "940" type: "post" slug: "mitsubishi-pajero-iv-reliability-review-2025" published_at: "2025-10-22T15:17:39+00:00" modified_at: "2025-10-22T15:17:40+00:00" url: "https://motorhub.club/blog/mitsubishi-pajero-iv-reliability-review-2025/" markdown_url: "https://motorhub.club/blog/mitsubishi-pajero-iv-reliability-review-2025.md" excerpt: "There’s a certain respect the Mitsubishi Pajero commands when it rolls by. Maybe it’s nostalgia, maybe it’s the unmistakable boxy confidence of a proper SUV..." taxonomy_category: - "Car Problem & Fix Guides" - "Car Reviews & Reliability Guides." - "Mechanic Services" taxonomy_post_tag: - "Mitsubishi Pajero 2013–2023 review" - "Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 V6 issues" - "Mitsubishi Pajero 4 reliability" - "Mitsubishi Pajero IV review" - "Pajero 3.2 Di-D problems" - "Pajero IV common problems" - "Pajero IV maintenance guide" --- There’s a certain respect the Mitsubishi Pajero commands when it rolls by. Maybe it’s nostalgia, maybe it’s the unmistakable boxy confidence of a proper SUV that isn’t trying to look like a crossover. The Pajero IV (NS), sold between 2006 and 2023 with a series of refinements, has outlasted many of its rivals. But after years of duty across deserts, mountains, and highways, how well does it hold up? For anyone eyeing a used Pajero from the 2013–2023 era, this isn’t just a question of price. It’s about knowing whether you’re buying into the last chapter of an off-road legend or a maintenance head ache waiting to happen. ## **The Pajero IV at a Glance** Before the world turned soft and started calling everything an SUV, the Pajero was a proper 4×4. The fourth generation (NS/NX) retained body-on-frame toughness wrapped in a slightly modernised shell. ### **Key Highlights** - Production years covered: 2013–2023 (global) - Layout: Ladder-frame with full-time 4WD (Super Select II) - Engines: 3.0 V6 petrol (177 hp), 3.8 V6 petrol (250 hp), 3.2 Di-D diesel (200 hp) - Gearboxes: 5-speed auto and 5-speed manual - Seating: Up to 7 passengers - Towing capacity: 3,000 kg (braked) It’s solid, simple, and built to endure rough conditions. But “solid” doesn’t always mean “trouble-free.” ## **Engine and Drivetrain Reliability** ### **The 3.8 V6 Petrol** The most popular engine in markets such as the Middle East and Asia, the 3.8-litre V6 is reliable when maintained correctly. Common issues revolve around: - **Timing-belt wear:** replacement every 90,000 km is critical. - **Valve-stem seals:** oil consumption increases past 150,000 km. - **Cooling system leaks:** water pumps tend to fail after 120,000 km. The 3.0 V6 is less powerful but easier on fuel and cheaper to maintain. ### **The 3.2 Di-D Diesel** Favoured in Europe and Australia, it’s a workhorse but not perfect. - **EGR valve clogging** and **soot build-up** can cause rough idling. - **Injector seals** may fail, leading to diesel smell and oil dilution. - **Turbo actuator issues** have been reported in pre-2015 models. Overall, none of these faults are catastrophic if caught early. Routine servicing and high-quality lubricants extend engine life well beyond 300,000 km. ## **Transmission and Transfer Case** The 5-speed automatic (V5A51) has proven sturdy but not invincible. - **Fluid overheating:** happens during off-road towing without auxiliary cooling. - **Shift flare** between 2nd and 3rd gear: sign of worn solenoids. - **Transfer-case leaks:** occasionally seen on high-mileage units. Manual gearboxes are nearly indestructible, with only clutch-wear complaints after 150,000 km. Regular fluid changes are non-negotiable for longevity. ## **Chassis, Suspension, and Ride Comfort** Even after a decade, the Pajero feels more rugged than most new SUVs. Its **independent suspension front and rear** gives it road comfort, while the **Super Select 4WD system** allows switching between 2H, 4H, and 4L on the fly. **Known Wear Points** - **Upper control arm bushings** and **rear shock mounts** tend to go soft by 100,000 km. - **Body mounts** can creak under heat and load. - **ABS sensors** are exposed and often fail after dusty drives. Despite that, the ride is more composed than a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and less floaty than a Nissan Patrol Y61. ## **Interior and Electronics** The cabin aged gracefully simple dashboard, sturdy plastics, and intuitive controls. But the world of electronics wasn’t Mitsubishi’s forte back then. **Typical Issues** - **Touchscreen failures** in models with Rockford audio systems. - **Air-con blowers** that lose speed control due to resistor pack faults. - **Instrument cluster pixels** fading with heat exposure. Nothing fatal, but a reminder that “simple” doesn’t always mean “flawless.” ## **The Overconfidence Trap** **Problem:** Many owners skip preventive maintenance because the Pajero has a bulletproof reputation. **Agitate:** By the time you notice oil smell, driveline vibration, or overheating, the damage is already done. Ignoring service intervals shortens engine life drastically. **Solution:** Treat the Pajero like a tough athlete—strong but not invincible. Stick to manufacturer-recommended service intervals, use high-quality fluids, and don’t ignore minor leaks. It will reward you with decades of trouble-free performance. ## ****Best and Worst Model Years**** **Best Years:** 2016–2020 models are the sweet spot for refined gearboxes and fewer electrical glitches. **Avoid:** Early 2013 models with software bugs in the ECU and less effective air conditioning. ## **Maintenance** Oil and filter every 10,000 km, transmission fluid every 40,000 km, and timing-belt every 90,000 km. Parts availability is strong in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Independent mechanics can service it easily without dealership prices. ## **Frequently Asked Questions** **Q1: Is the Pajero IV good for off-road use?** Absolutely. The Super Select II 4WD system offers low-range gearing and center differential lock, making it capable on sand, gravel, and rocky terrain. **Q2: How reliable is the 3.8 V6 engine?** Very reliable with regular oil changes and timing-belt replacements. Avoid overheating—it’s the engine’s main enemy. **Q3: Is it worth buying a used Pajero in 2025?** Yes, if service records are complete and it’s been properly maintained. Prices are reasonable and the vehicle still holds strong resale value in many regions. **Q4: What are the main weak spots?** Suspension bushings, A/C blower resistors, and instrument cluster pixels are the most common. **Q5: Which variant offers the best value?** The 3.8 V6 Exceed trim offers a good mix of equipment and longevity without diesel complexity. ## **MotorHub UAE – Service Support for Long-Life SUVs** In the UAE, where heat and dust push mechanicals to their limits, **MotorHub UAE** offers specialized maintenance for robust SUVs like the Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Prado, and Nissan Patrol. Our technicians handle everything from 4WD transfer-case servicing to suspension rebuilds and air-conditioning repairs tailored for desert conditions. If your Pajero has seen better days, we help it run like new again with dealer-level diagnostics and genuine parts. 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