<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />I apologize if this is too general...I'm considering buying a '94 - '97 Montero with the 3.5 engine. Most of the trucks I'm looking at have between 110k and 160k mi on them. What should I be watching out for? I used to own a '94 Landcruiser and loved the relative reliability. Can I expect the same from a Mitsubishi? Or should I plan on more or higher maintenance bills. Thanks!

from my experience toyota has the highest prices for replacement parts than anybody else BY FAR!!! Mitsubishis are very reliable vehicles, if you take care of it...it will take care of you, but that goes for most vehicles I guess. just make sure you know when the timing belt was last changed, and if you can't get that information, just change the belt so you know your safe. if that sucker breaks your in for a big bill!!!!

In my experience, Toyota also has the highest reliability. While my Mitsubishi has held up reasonably well considering the abuse I've dished out to it, my Toyota pickup just keeps going and going.

I've put about 50,000 miles (of its 150,000 miles) on my Mitsubishi. In that time, I've blown a head gasket, replaced a tranny, replaced several steering components, and replaced numerous components in the engine compartment which had worn out.

I've put all of my Toyota's 410,000 miles on it. In that time, I've replaced a water pump, three coils, and an alternator. I also replaced the starter but it turned out later that the fault was elsewhere and I didn't need to replace the starter after all.

Yes, the Toyota's parts are more expensive, but they last longer.

I'd say your best bet is to plan on turning your own wrenches on whatever you buy. That way, you'll not only save a lot of money, you'll know exactly what quality of workmanship has been put into it. Then just keep it maintained.

Intake changeover butterfly has problems on 3.5. Butterflies break off the shaft and lunch the engine. Part is about $300, and cheap at the price compared to an engine overhaul...

97 is 3.5 SOHC.

What about axle gears, anyone know? Did they go to the lower 4.2X then? (98 has the lower...)