Heard on the o'dark thirty news this morning that Misubishi had announced another $several million recall, but that it affected mostly vehicles sold in countries other than U.S. Couldn't wait for "more details later in the broadcast",
Anybody know anything more?
PHOnos, 2001 White/Silver full size Montero w/ rear A/C; build date July; $34,500 + TTL, August, 2000, Orange County, CA.
Thanks for the help! I did check the cap and found it was tight, but I did not fill it, so they may not have turned it until it clicked. Is it important to click or just be tight? I tried it after opening the cap and then tightened it correctly, until it clicked; but "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light did not go off. How do you reset the warning light to see if you still have a problem? I checked coolant and oil level and all O.K.. Any other checks? I keep thinking it must be something simple, like the gas cap. Thanks for any help!
I don't know how to reset the engine light, but the gas cap does have to be tightened all the way until it clicks--I remember the dealer making a big point of this when I picked mine up.
If the gas cap did in fact trigger the light, the light will reset itself after a specific number of engine starts where the OBDII does not detect a fault. If the car is running fine I wouldn't worry too much. Otherwise, the dealer will have to scan the fault code, correct it, and reset the light.
The dealer confirmed that the gas cap does have to be tightened all the way until it clicks ("3-4 times" - right!). It is an emissions problem that cannot be reset by owner, but may go away on it's own?
Has anyone had the "SERVICE ENGINE go away on it's own?
Also, on the power steering reservoir being too small on some early? production Monte's, they are not having a recall, but if it squeals they will replace it with larger capacity reservoir. I don't understand this, unless they are short on replacement reservoir and the squeaky wheel gets the grease (To me it is either the right size or too small and needs to be replaced. They must feel a squealing pump will not fail within warranty period?
34,976 seems to be the TMV that Edmunds quotes for the LTD with rear air. I think you should be able to get the same with destination, minus taxes for nothing more than 34,500 now.
Does anyone know the production dates after which the Monte reservoir was corrected. I would like to check mine. Need to know how to check prod date as well.
Thanks for all the help with my many questions. Walking into the dealership, the salesperson was quite impressed with my knowledge regarding the Montero LTD as well as financing details. I have yet to sit down with him and discuss pricing because I need to get my wife there to determine if this is really the SUV for us. However, based on this board I will start at $34k and will probably work my way up to $34.7 or $34.9 (dealer installed rear spoiler/running boards). Does this seem fair or should I start a bit lower? One more question, tho...how is the towing receiver mounted on the Montero? Is it frame mounted? Also, what is towing capacity? Thanks again.
Yes, it is the same service manual, three big volumes, but a bit funky to follow, never seen any like this.
You can reset the service engine light by disconnecting your battery for one minute. Dealer might run the scan for free and will if it is still in warranty. Yes, turn that cap till it clicks, mine says that right on it.
The recall is about a pulley on the crankshaft. Seems that the bolt is improperly torqued or a bad bolt. Check with your dealer. The NHTSA Campaign Number is 00V311000 This should be covered whether in warranty or not.
Before you buy the new Monty, go to www.carbuyingtips.com and read, it could save you thousands!
Your production date is on the post of the driver's door, (at least it is on mine).
The towing capacity is 5000 lb.,if trailer has brakes or 1500 lb. with no brakes. Not sure how is attached. I got a factory hitch thrown in as a deal closer, but they wanted $380. for hitch + $100 to install. I just bought a 2001 Monte Ltd.s (full size) with rear air (hitch + bug defector installed) for $34,000. + tax & Lic.. After market hitches can be had for less than $250. Good luck! Just remember you got to walk, if you can't get the price you want, he will call. If he doesn't find another dealer over the net.
Congratulations on your new Montero! Sounds reasonable to me. Let us know how you like the vehicle regarding driving, gas mileage, problems with your warning lights, etc. I'm still considering. Has anyone heard about any saftey changes or engine changes for the 2002?
Heading up to DVNP tomorrow morning. Plan was to do some of the trails, but some we wanted to take are closed by 2-3 feet of snow according to the "Morning Report". Will post some photos in the next couple weeks.
Anybody else got any photos of where they've been in their Monte? photopoint.com is a good place to share them.
Man, these things are tough to get any dealer to give in on a price! I live in the well-populated Manhatten suburb, and with all of the snow, these dealers are hanging tough. Most dealers are not going below $35k for the loaded- alot aren't even going below $36k!! But I got mine for $34,500 with 2 free services... Sudan Beige w/rear air control. I pick it up tomorrow for my wife's surprise party! With 2 kids & 2 dogs, this car is a must-have. Did a ton of research, and this is the only car at this price that's worth it. The Durago SLT was cheaper, but not nearly as "upscale" as this car. I'll post our 1st impressions after a weekend of driving around!
Welcome to one of the most under appreciated clubs. Most of us believe like you that there is nothing else out there within 5K that can touch the Montero.
Went into my local Mitsu dealership and attempted to negotiate a deal for a LTD w/ rear air and dealer added running boards/rear spoiler ($1400 dealer price). They had a factory dicsount on selected LTDs and XLSs, and the avg. price for the LTD was $34,747. BUT, this excludes the 4.9% financing. Is this true in SoCal? Was able to negotiate directly to the fleet mgr. (nice guy), and after a while showed me an invoice price that was about $700 over what Edmund's shows. In it were the ad fees of $900 and dest. charge of $540. The ad fees seem very high and I'm sure this is where the difference is coming from.
Also, I have 2 payments left on my JGC. He offered to pay one of them, and I said I would keep the security deposit of $400. Would it be better to let them take care of the lease return, in case Jeep wanted to charge me for anything unusual? Are they very nitpicky on returns? The only thing wrong is that there's a small 1/2" tear on the pleather door armrest where your elbow rests.. Should this be normal wear and tear for a '98?
Bottom line is that they offered me the Monte for $34700 + $400 (one Jeep payment) + tax, lic,etc. AND this would qualify for the 4.9%. This includes the $1400 dealer add-ons. How is this? I thought it would be better if I ran these figures and terms through the board first before making a final decision. Thanks again. --Jimmy
Jimmy, I just bought a 2001 Monte Ltd.s with rear air & $600. of extras for $34,000., so it sounds like a fair deal. It never hurts to offer just $34,700. or ask him to throw in the factory hitch (about $500.). The lease deal is hard to figure, I never have leased vehicle.
Thanks for your help. I am looking to purchase and not lease. Did you opt for the 4.9%, or did you get your own? Or did you pay cash? Where are you located? I'm in the Los Angeles area, but I'm not sure if it helps or hurts my negotiations. They had about 20 Montes on the lot and are preparing for a sale this weekend. Maybe I should wait 'til the last day?
The manuel calls for Premium so that would be best IMO. Modern engines will compensate for the most part if you want to use cheaper stuff but hey, we bought expensive trucks so why ask the engine management system to compensate by retarding engine timing so we can save $2.00 on a tank of gas. Over time you will get some carbon built up in the cylinders and probably not have the option of using regular. Using it now could cause that normal condition to occur much earlier and you'll have to use premium.
Synthetic Oil is almost NEVER of benefit to everyday vehicles and driving condidtions. If your driving a hot running Porsche or similar, I'd say it's a good idea or perhapse if your running around in the Arizona desert regularly. I'd say - take the money you save on Synthetic Oil and use it for the Recommended Premium Fuel. But - It's just my opinion.
I got the 4.9% dealer loans as the bank loans are still a lot higher. I may refinance to home equity loan if rates get low enough, to get tax right off. I am located in Eastern WA.
If they have a big sale coming up, Mitsubishi may allow extra incentive for the sales (At least that's what I was told, if you can believe an auto salesman), so it saved me at least $1,000 (cash + Extras), from the best they would do previously.
I would suggest you negotiate enough to have them run a credit check and get their final sales manager offer. They will not negotiate seriously until they know you have the money and you are serious. Make your final offer, walk and tell them you are still considering another SUV or get a competitive quote from another Mitsubishi dealer to keep them honest. Just remember it's all just a big game, with you money!
You are right on the fuel, I plan to start with 91 octane, but my dealer filled my tank with 89 octane when I bought the car and other owners have been experimenting to see the difference. I my area -WA. some stations sell 89 octane for the same price as 87 octane, $0.20 more for 91 octane, painful difference.
Reading the manual, I found another sleeper! They want you to use 4H while towing not 2H or will cause trany & diff. damage. Shows you really need to read the Manual! Better read section 4-63 before towing!
Any more sleepers you guys have found, that can damage equipment or other problems?
Agree with Drew on this one--I have tried all three octanes; the engine runs smoother and quieter with premium (91)....Save your money on the synthetic oil, and use the better grade gasoline. From what I've read, oil change interval is more important than the oil you use--if you change your oil at recommended intervals, there is really no benefit to the synthetics for the average engine. I read a really good article on this--I'll try and find the source, but it was about a year ago.
I just bought a 2001 Xls with everything on it plus sunroof with 10,000miles on it for $25,500. I thought that was a good deal. I am looking for any aftermarket items for this truck if anyone knows of some places online or off let me know. Also how have the trucks been holding up any problems with them?
Are you sure? I haven't heard this one yet! Do you have to use 4 wd for towing on the highway? By the way, how do you like your Montero? I am almost ready to buy.
>>Any more sleepers you guys have found, that can damage equipment or other problems? << clayb
Maybe not really a "Sleeper" and don't believe it's in the manuel but:
I've heard from so called "experts" that it is a good idea to engage your 4-wheel drive system about once a month to keep parts lubed and spinning. This supposedly will extend the life of the system. They also said to make sure and only do it on surfaced that are at least wet. I try to remember to do it on rainy days if I havent engaged it for awhile. We talked about this one long ago but don't believe you had joined this topic yet.
See post 278, I found hard to believe also but it is in the manual. The thing to remember is that the Monte's have an 2W drive, a 4W drive like all-wheel drive nib some SUV's that can be left in 100% of the time. Then the Monte has a 4W Lock and 4W low Lock that can only be used on off road or wet conditions. That's my understanding from reading the manual for the 2001 Monte Ltd.s (full size manuf. Nov. 2000). Only have 100 miles, so still learning, too early for an opinion. After I get my 1st 3,000+ miles on it I'll know better, if I made the right choice. Good luck in you research.
I was wondering if there are any other full-size Montero forums. I'm interested in reading more consumer comments. So far, I think this forum is great and I really appreciate all the info. I am very close to buying one. Thanks
There is one other forum that is a bit more technical than this one, and in my opinion not quite as good as edmunds w/r to Montero's. It is not exclusive to the big Monte's however (but is does have a lot of good info on the larger Monte). I think it is worth looking at if you are considering buying. You can find the sight by searching for "SUV online", go to that page, then go to the SUV posting boards (Montero is on the bottom of the page).
RE: 4wd for towing. yes I saw that in the manual too. Dont know why. Perhaps the limited slip will get "too hot" when towing. I dont know.
RE: gas I feel there was better milage with the 91 0ctane. I have heard/read that the manual reccomends 91 but that was in Japan definitions and that our octane over here is rated different such that 89 would be equal. I dont know if this is correct, any petroleum experts out there.
RE: synthetic oil. I sort of use dski logic with this one. Since I am willing to pay for higher octane I will spend more money for gas. Compare this with the once every 3K oil change price with synthetic vs regular oil and I figure why not just have the extra quality and go with synthetic.
I agree that it is the frequency of changes with these modern oils and how hard you drive. I figure the 4wd motors are punished more than cars so I go with the "better" oil.
I would not use synthetic on until the 2nd or 3rd change to allow the motor proper breakin. I know they are broken in already but I just like the extra comfort of a few thou on the motor before going with synthetic.
As far as mileage, I have not yet compared the difference. I dont expect one.
There have been a few posts about the stock tires on the Montero. I just read a review, I think it was in Mar Automobile, that rated the Geolanders vs many others. I was suprised to find out that they rate them the BEST. Anyone thinking of changing tires should look at this recent review. I was suprised. I am now rethinking my approach of putting on "winter specific" tires.
I hope I am quoting the right Mag. and I will find it again in B and N if no one else does.
I think they will be great on road, but I am not sure they are aggressive enough for some off road or deep snow. The Geolander A/T look good but may be noisy for the road. I am even considering aggressive tread with studs for winter, if I could find a deal on spare rims.
On the synthetic oil, if it really helps performance and protects engine, it may be cheap insurance; but I am have not read any good articles on this. Please direct to any good studies on this subject. I agree with brillmtb on this, especially considering I only plan to put about 10,000 miles a year on the Monte, so with an investment like the Monte, what's another $100. year, if you reduce wear, starts better in the winter, etc. Things like engine warranty and which synthetic is best, etc. are a big concern, since I have not used synthetics to date in any vehicle. Thanks for any help on this!
Today, my wife and I looked at and test drove the Montero Limited at a local dealer in Bucks County, Pa. We really liked the car, but they seemed very independent about not needing to adjust their price from the MSRP. They had one on the lot that had 4100 miles on it, never titled, and "came down" to $34900. It did have the rear a/c package. From what I read from earlier posted messages, I should expect to pay approximately $34,700. Should prices vary according to where the dealers are located? Also, would I get my best deal at the end of this month? Would they be more desperate? Thanks for any help offered.
Tires: One thing you may consider if you need winter tires (the stock geo's were not rated high for winter driving in CR) is getting a set of winter tires and rotate with the stock geo's depending on the season. Many tire dealers (at least in wisconsin) will change the tires for the lifetime of the tire for free if you change them seasonally.
Oil: What I have read about synthetic oil is that if you change every 3 to 5 thousand miles, it will make no difference on wear and tear on the engine wether you go with synthetic or natural (and there is some debate wether synthetic is better than natural in the first place, although most people seem to prefer the synthetic). I personally just use the natural stuff (as I am a big fan of OPEC....NOT!) but I think the rational by brill to use synthetic is reasonable too.
Again, the most important thing is going to be interval of change rather than the oil used (with the exception maybe of that recycled crap you can get. Wouldn't even put that in my lawnmower...maybe my mother in laws car though).
I went to Yosemite last week. When I am passing a higher elevation with high engine speed, the check engine light came on. I ignored it, went on my trip anyway. There was alot of snow fall at higher elevation, and the Montero works fine. Being in experience with driving on ice, I skidded when I braked hard and turn in to a turn-out covered with ice, but I got out of the situation by sterring. The steering feel is very good with no kick back. I would consider tires with better winter performance if there is any. Back to the check engine light, it turned off by it self.. untill on my way home it turned on again at about the same place it turned on before!. If it stays on, will see what the dealer diagnostic will be.
Went to the dealer recommended by autoweb.com in Hemet, about 40 minutes from where I live. This details exactly which car I'm interested in purchasing. She mentioned $800 over invoice. A few days later I call again and let her know what my local dealer offered and she says she can beat it but didn't want to divulge over the phone for fear that I would just go over to my local dealer with her price. I told her specifically that I don't want to go out there unless she can beat it, and I'll be willing to purchase on the spot. So I make the trip over there and she asks me which color XLS I was interested in. WHAT??!?! I told her again everything I said over the phone a few days ago as well as what she should have had on her computer screen from autoweb.com. She apologizes about her mistake (XLS vs. LTD), and proceeds to tell me that if my local dealer could really give me that price on a LTD, then I should go with it. GEE, I NEEDED TO DRIVE ALL THE WAY OVER HERE TO HEAR THIS? Some people...
Rest assured, my response to the autoweb.com survey that was just sent to me regarding my satisfaction will be lengthy.
As the fleet mgr., her no haggle price is $900 over invoice for the LTD. What do you guys think?
I paid 34,700 for a LTD with rear air. I could have got it for less by waiting until now but was tired of looking for the "right" 4wd for the last 2 years. When the Sequoia looked like an overpriced, underpowered and less capable 4wd I just threw up my hands and went with the Montero.
I would not pay more than what I paid back several months ago and I might even try for 34,500. Dont pay advertising on top of this. The only extra charges should be tax, licence and options.
Good luck and if you live near Oregon I can give you the number to my dealer. Seems like he has 4-5 sitting on the lot when I drove by the other day.
Invoice: 32,135 TMV (market value that this site states as a fair price to pay): 33, 619
Add 700-800 for rear air and you get about 34,400-34,500. So I would think you could actually get 34,500.
By the way, I dont know how others feel but I really like the LTD transmission (the manual feature is great for off road) and the rear air which gives you climate control.
Thanks tremendously for the help. Most of the internet/fleet mgrs are quoting me their invoice price as a few hundred bucks over $34k. Two of them offered $800 and $900 over their invoice. Even if I added rear air at invoice ($783), it should be at near $33k, and $800 over invoice for them should be around $33.8k. Quoted prices I've been getting is around $35.4k. I'll just be patient...
WRT the LTD tranny, I also think it's a really cool option. One of the only things I can gripe about is the fact that with the rear seats folded up, you're giving away about a foot of usable space. I like the way the Expys or my JGC folde flat, but that's a small price to pay for a much better SUV.
I emailed the address you gave me to obtain the shop manual at $71 and they quoted me $154. I emailed them back with the price you gave me and I am waiting for a response.
Greetings, all. I've been following your postings for a couple of months and used them both in deciding to purchase a Monte and to negotiate on price. Thanks much. I bought my 2001 black-and-beige Limited in suburban Chicago a couple of weeks ago. I used internet pricing to play a couple of dealers off each other and got my truck for just north of 35K with the preferred package, factory Class III hitch, side steps (they look much better than the running boards), and wheel locks installed. I'm sure that I could have negotiated further, but you know, I just really love this truck and wanted to get it (especially at 4.9% financing). As others have said, if you are patient and willing to walk, you will probably get a better deal. One thing you might want to check out is how many days of inventory Mitsu has on the 2001 Monte Limited right now.
Has anyone leased a 2001 ltd and what has been your lease payment? Has anyone heard of any new equipment coming out on the 2002 ltd. thanks for your help.
West Broad Mitsubishi 7100 W Broad Street Richmond, VA 23294
1-800-229-1001 on my invoice, the salesman was "LH" (don't remember his name)
www.westbroadmitsubishi.com
part number for the service manual MSSP003B2000 (For a 2000 MS) $71
also, I bought side steps list for $367, paid $274.85 cargo cover list $121.30 paid 92.95 cargo net list $30.24 paid 24.19 oil filter list $5.75 paid 4.60 oil plug gasket list .43 paid .34
I paid $26 shipping, UPS everything got to me in great shape.
Let me know if that helps or not...I will call them for you if you like.
Peace, Rascal
P.S. I use NOTHING but Mobil One in any machine I own including my riding lawnmower..it is superior in every way. As a retired Harley mechanic, trust me, conventional oil just does not compare.
Due to unfortunate reasons, I will be selling my 2001 Montero Limted. It has 5k miles on it. What would a fair asking price be on this vehicle. I live in the Metro Atlanta area. Carmax sells them new for about $34,500 +$99 dollars + sales tax of $1,725 = $36,324 out the door. I was thinking that $33,000 would be a good deal. Please give me some input. Thanks.
Thanks for the info. I will take it from here. So you got the manual from that dealer? Is is a Montero Sport or Montero manual? I have the Montero so perhaps thats why it is higher. Doesnt seem like it should be that much though.
Re: Oil I use synthetic Castrol in everything. I dont know that the two are really any different.
yes, mine is the Montero Sport manual which is what I have. I cannot imagine that yours should cost twice as much, but who the heck knows? I bought all those items from that Mits dealer I listed above.
Castrol is probably just great, I use Mobil because they have been making it for over 20 years.
Hi, I have a new 2001 Mont. Ltd...on the second row seats there are these 4 little embroidery-like circles at the lower front part of the seat back...what are these? any info?
Does anyone know if it is possible to get some sort of after-market shoulder harness installed for the second row middle seat on the ltd? isn't using just a lap belt quite dangerous? any ideas or input would be appreciated. thanks.
Comments
Anybody know anything more?
PHOnos, 2001 White/Silver full size Montero w/ rear A/C; build date July; $34,500 + TTL, August, 2000, Orange County, CA.
I checked coolant and oil level and all O.K.. Any other checks? I keep thinking it must be something simple, like the gas cap. Thanks for any help!
How can you tell the build date on the Monteros, from the VIN?
("3-4 times" - right!). It is an emissions problem that cannot be reset by owner, but may go away on it's own?
Has anyone had the "SERVICE ENGINE go away on it's own?
Also, on the power steering reservoir being too small on some early? production Monte's, they are not having a recall, but if it squeals they will replace it with larger capacity reservoir. I don't understand this, unless they are short on replacement reservoir and the squeaky wheel gets the grease (To me it is either the right size or too small and needs to be replaced. They must feel a squealing pump will not fail within warranty period?
Thanks
You can reset the service engine light by disconnecting your battery for one minute. Dealer might run the scan for free and will if it is still in warranty. Yes, turn that cap till it clicks, mine says that right on it.
The recall is about a pulley on the crankshaft. Seems that the bolt is improperly torqued or a bad bolt. Check with your dealer. The NHTSA Campaign Number is 00V311000
This should be covered whether in warranty or not.
Before you buy the new Monty, go to www.carbuyingtips.com and read, it could save you thousands!
Your production date is on the post of the driver's door, (at least it is on mine).
Rascal
http://cnnfn.cnn.com/2001/02/15/asia/wires/mitsubishi_wg/
Ill try again in the AM
Try this site for towing information: http://www.boatingmag.com/suvindex.html
Anybody else got any photos of where they've been in their Monte? photopoint.com is a good place to share them.
-PHOnos
Also anybody using synthetic oil and has it helped MPG or performance?
Thanks for any help, still on my first tank of gas.
Also, I have 2 payments left on my JGC. He offered to pay one of them, and I said I would keep the security deposit of $400. Would it be better to let them take care of the lease return, in case Jeep wanted to charge me for anything unusual? Are they very nitpicky on returns? The only thing wrong is that there's a small 1/2" tear on the pleather door armrest where your elbow rests.. Should this be normal wear and tear for a '98?
Bottom line is that they offered me the Monte for $34700 + $400 (one Jeep payment) + tax, lic,etc. AND this would qualify for the 4.9%. This includes the $1400 dealer add-ons. How is this? I thought it would be better if I ran these figures and terms through the board first before making a final decision. Thanks again. --Jimmy
Good luck!
The manuel calls for Premium so that would be best IMO. Modern engines will compensate for the most part if you want to use cheaper stuff but hey, we bought expensive trucks so why ask the engine management system to compensate by retarding engine timing so we can save $2.00 on a tank of gas. Over time you will get some carbon built up in the cylinders and probably not have the option of using regular. Using it now could cause that normal condition to occur much earlier and you'll have to use premium.
Synthetic Oil is almost NEVER of benefit to everyday vehicles and driving condidtions. If your driving a hot running Porsche or similar, I'd say it's a good idea or perhapse if your running around in the Arizona desert regularly. I'd say - take the money you save on Synthetic Oil and use it for the Recommended Premium Fuel. But - It's just my opinion.
drew
If they have a big sale coming up, Mitsubishi may allow extra incentive for the sales (At least that's what I was told, if you can believe an auto salesman), so it saved me at least $1,000 (cash + Extras), from the best they would do previously.
I would suggest you negotiate enough to have them run a credit check and get their final sales manager offer. They will not negotiate seriously until they know you have the money and you are serious. Make your final offer, walk and tell them you are still considering another SUV or get a competitive quote from another Mitsubishi dealer to keep them honest. Just remember it's all just a big game, with you money!
Good luck!
Reading the manual, I found another sleeper! They want you to use 4H while towing not 2H or will cause trany & diff. damage. Shows you really need to read the Manual! Better read section 4-63 before towing!
Any more sleepers you guys have found, that can damage equipment or other problems?
By the way, how do you like your Montero?
I am almost ready to buy.
Maybe not really a "Sleeper" and don't believe it's in the manuel but:
I've heard from so called "experts" that it is a good idea to engage your 4-wheel drive system about once a month to keep parts lubed and spinning. This supposedly will extend the life of the system. They also said to make sure and only do it on surfaced that are at least wet. I try to remember to do it on rainy days if I havent engaged it for awhile. We talked about this one long ago but don't believe you had joined this topic yet.
Drew
Thanks
RE: gas I feel there was better milage with the 91 0ctane. I have heard/read that the manual reccomends 91 but that was in Japan definitions and that our octane over here is rated different such that 89 would be equal. I dont know if this is correct, any petroleum experts out there.
RE: synthetic oil. I sort of use dski logic with this one. Since I am willing to pay for higher octane I will spend more money for gas. Compare this with the once every 3K oil change price with synthetic vs regular oil and I figure why not just have the extra quality and go with synthetic.
I agree that it is the frequency of changes with these modern oils and how hard you drive. I figure the 4wd motors are punished more than cars so I go with the "better" oil.
I would not use synthetic on until the 2nd or 3rd change to allow the motor proper breakin. I know they are broken in already but I just like the extra comfort of a few thou on the motor before going with synthetic.
As far as mileage, I have not yet compared the difference. I dont expect one.
I hope I am quoting the right Mag. and I will find it again in B and N if no one else does.
On the synthetic oil, if it really helps performance and protects engine, it may be cheap insurance; but I am have not read any good articles on this. Please direct to any good studies on this subject. I agree with brillmtb on this, especially considering I only plan to put about 10,000 miles a year on the Monte, so with an investment like the Monte, what's another $100. year, if you reduce wear, starts better in the winter, etc. Things like engine warranty and which synthetic is best, etc. are a big concern, since I have not used synthetics to date in any vehicle. Thanks for any help on this!
Oil: What I have read about synthetic oil is that if you change every 3 to 5 thousand miles, it will make no difference on wear and tear on the engine wether you go with synthetic or natural (and there is some debate wether synthetic is better than natural in the first place, although most people seem to prefer the synthetic). I personally just use the natural stuff (as I am a big fan of OPEC....NOT!) but I think the rational by brill to use synthetic is reasonable too.
Again, the most important thing is going to be interval of change rather than the oil used (with the exception maybe of that recycled crap you can get. Wouldn't even put that in my lawnmower...maybe my mother in laws car though).
Rest assured, my response to the autoweb.com survey that was just sent to me regarding my satisfaction will be lengthy.
As the fleet mgr., her no haggle price is $900 over invoice for the LTD. What do you guys think?
I paid 34,700 for a LTD with rear air. I could have got it for less by waiting until now but was tired of looking for the "right" 4wd for the last 2 years. When the Sequoia looked like an overpriced, underpowered and less capable 4wd I just threw up my hands and went with the Montero.
I would not pay more than what I paid back several months ago and I might even try for 34,500. Dont pay advertising on top of this. The only extra charges should be tax, licence and options.
Good luck and if you live near Oregon I can give you the number to my dealer. Seems like he has 4-5 sitting on the lot when I drove by the other day.
Invoice: 32,135
TMV (market value that this site states as a fair price to pay): 33, 619
Add 700-800 for rear air and you get about 34,400-34,500. So I would think you could actually get 34,500.
By the way, I dont know how others feel but I really like the LTD transmission (the manual feature is great for off road) and the rear air which gives you climate control.
WRT the LTD tranny, I also think it's a really cool option. One of the only things I can gripe about is the fact that with the rear seats folded up, you're giving away about a foot of usable space. I like the way the Expys or my JGC folde flat, but that's a small price to pay for a much better SUV.
Are there different manuals?
Has anyone heard of any new equipment coming out on the 2002 ltd.
thanks for your help.
rascal2064@yahoo.com
I will give you the invoice and name of the guy I talked to. If need be, I will call him myself.
$154 is crazy. Mine was $71 and it is THREE volumes!
Rascal
7100 W Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23294
1-800-229-1001
on my invoice, the salesman was "LH" (don't remember his name)
www.westbroadmitsubishi.com
part number for the service manual
MSSP003B2000 (For a 2000 MS)
$71
also, I bought side steps list for $367, paid $274.85
cargo cover list $121.30 paid 92.95
cargo net list $30.24 paid 24.19
oil filter list $5.75 paid 4.60
oil plug gasket list .43 paid .34
I paid $26 shipping, UPS
everything got to me in great shape.
Let me know if that helps or not...I will call them for you if you like.
Peace,
Rascal
P.S. I use NOTHING but Mobil One in any machine I own including my riding lawnmower..it is superior in every way. As a retired Harley mechanic, trust me, conventional oil just does not compare.
It has 5k miles on it. What would a fair asking price be on this vehicle. I live in the Metro Atlanta area. Carmax sells them new for about $34,500 +$99 dollars + sales tax of $1,725 = $36,324 out the door. I was thinking that $33,000 would be a good deal. Please give me some input. Thanks.
Re: Oil I use synthetic Castrol in everything. I dont know that the two are really any different.
I bought all those items from that Mits dealer I listed above.
Castrol is probably just great, I use Mobil because they have been making it for over 20 years.
Rascal