Parts for your 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero-Power steering fluid

1991 Mitsubishi Pajero — Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is relevant on the 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1991 factory workshop manual (Steering section, Group 37) and widely used service guides such as Haynes for Pajero/Montero 1983–1996 confirm these models run a hydraulic power steering system. The system specifies automatic transmission fluid (ATF) meeting Dexron II or Dexron III as the power steering fluid.

On this Pajero, the fluid’s job is simple but vital: it transmits hydraulic pressure to help turn the front wheels with far less effort, protects the pump and steering gear from wear, and keeps everything running smooth and quiet. Fresh, correct-spec ATF also helps prevent seal shrinkage, foaming and corrosion inside the steering box and pump.

For day‑to‑day care, it pays to check the reservoir every few months or before a big trip. With the engine warm and idling, look at the “HOT” mark on the reservoir dipstick or side window. Top up only with Dexron II/III ATF, and don’t overfill. If the fluid looks dark, smells burnt, or you’re hearing a whine when turning, it’s time to refresh it.

A practical service interval is every 40,000–60,000 km or 2–4 years, especially on older hoses and seals. Many owners do a simple exchange by siphoning from the reservoir and refilling a few times over a week, but the most effective method is a return‑hose flush:

• Lift the front wheels, secure the Pajero, and place a catch bottle on the return hose from the reservoir.
• Plug the reservoir port, add fresh Dexron II/III, then briefly start the engine while a mate turns the steering from lock to lock to push old fluid out. Don’t run the pump dry.
• Reconnect, fill to the correct level, then bleed by turning lock‑to‑lock several times with the engine idling, topping up as needed.

Keep an eye out for dampness around hose crimps, the pump front seal, and the steering box. Any foaming, aeration, or groaning noises usually points to air ingress or low fluid. Using the right ATF and changing it on schedule will keep the Pajero’s steering light, quiet and reliable — no dramas.

Popular questions

What fluid type should be used in a 1991 Pajero’s power steering?
The 1991 Pajero’s hydraulic system specifies ATF meeting Dexron II or Dexron III. Dedicated “power steering fluid” is not recommended unless it clearly states Dexron II/III compatibility. Mixing types can cause noise, seal issues, or poor assist.

How often should the power steering fluid be changed?
A good rule in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is every 40,000–60,000 km or 2–4 years. Shorten the interval if the fluid darkens quickly, you tow regularly, or you notice pump whine, heavy steering, or contamination from hose deterioration.

Why is my Pajero’s steering noisy after a fluid change?
That’s usually air in the system or the wrong fluid. Re‑bleed by turning lock‑to‑lock several times with the engine idling, topping up to the HOT mark. If noise persists, check for loose clamps or cracked return hoses drawing air, and confirm the ATF is Dexron II/III.