Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Pedal pads

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero pedal pads – what they do and when to replace them

Pedal pads are absolutely relevant to a 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Factory service information for the first‑generation Pajero/Montero (L040 series) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue list rubber pads for the brake and clutch pedals, and some variants also have a rubberised accelerator pad. Inspection manuals used for WoF/RWC – such as the NZTA Vehicle Inspection Requirements Manual for light vehicles – specifically call out the condition and security of the brake pedal rubber as a safety item. These technical references make it clear the 1987 Pajero was designed to run non‑slip pedal pads.

On a classic Pajero, pedal pads do more than look tidy. They provide grip in the wet, spread pressure across the foot, and damp a bit of vibration from the pedal box. Over time, the rubber hardens and polishes smooth, which can lead to the boot slipping under braking or when working the clutch off‑road. That’s also the sort of thing that can attract a fail at a WoF or RWC.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the pedal pads every 10,000–15,000 km or annually, and replace them whenever they’re glazed, cracked, or worn thin. Anyone who’s spilled brake fluid during bleeding should take an extra look – brake fluid can soften and degrade the rubber.

• Typical symptoms they’re due: smooth/shiny surface, cracking around the edges, pad moving on the metal plate, or bare metal showing through.
• Replacement is simple: lever off the old pad, clean the pedal plate, then warm the new pad (sunlight or warm water) and stretch it evenly over the plate. A tiny dab of soapy water helps, avoid petroleum products.
• After fitting, press the pedal a few times to confirm it’s seated and doesn’t twist underfoot.

When choosing parts, a quality OEM‑equivalent EPDM rubber pad is worth it. Manual‑trans Pajeros will have both brake and clutch pads, autos just the brake. The accelerator setup varied – some had a rubber pad, others a moulded plastic tread – but if it’s worn smooth, replace that too for consistent grip across the lot.

For owners who tour or hit muddy tracks, keeping fresh pedal pads is cheap insurance. They’re quick to fit, inexpensive, and make a noticeable difference to pedal feel and safety in wet boots.

Popular questions

Are the brake and clutch pedal pads the same on a 1987 Pajero?
Generally, yes – the brake and clutch pads are usually the same style and size on manual models, while the accelerator is different. Check the parts listing for your VIN to be sure, as trim levels and markets sometimes vary.

How long do pedal pads last on a first‑gen Pajero?
It depends on use. Daily drivers or off‑road rigs might see noticeable wear in 2–4 years. If the rubber is still grippy and not cracking, keep running it, but once it’s shiny or loose, replace it at the next service.

Can a home mechanic replace the pedal pads?
Yes. It’s a DIY five‑minute job with no special tools. The key is to clean the pedal plate and warm the new pad so it stretches on easily and seats snugly.