Parts for your 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero-Transmission filter

1993 Mitsubishi Pajero transmission filter — what’s fitted and how to look after it

For a 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero, whether a transmission filter is relevant depends on the gearbox fitted. Technical sources show the automatic transmissions used in this era (V20-series Pajero) have an internal oil strainer (often called a filter) inside the transmission pan, while the manual gearboxes do not use a filter at all. See: Mitsubishi Motors Workshop Manual — Pajero/Montero V20 (1991–1996), Automatic Transmission sections, ATSG technical manuals covering Mitsubishi V4AW2/V4AW3 and V4A51, and the Haynes Montero/Pajero 1992–1999 manual. Manuals rely on quality gear oil and magnetic drain plugs, so a transmission filter isn’t used or required on those models.

On automatic 1993 Pajeros, that internal strainer’s job is to catch clutch material and tiny metal particles so the hydraulic circuits keep clean pressure and smooth shifting. It sits above the pan, sealed by a gasket or O-ring, and feeds the pump. Unlike some later vehicles, there’s no external spin-on filter — it’s a mesh-style strainer that’s serviced when the pan is off.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to drop the pan, clean the magnets, and replace or clean the strainer at sensible intervals, especially if the vehicle tows, works hard off-road, or has unknown history. A practical approach in Australia and New Zealand is to pair a fluid service with strainer attention about every 60,000–100,000 kilometres (or sooner for severe use). Many aftermarket kits include a new strainer and pan gasket, where a metal mesh is specified, cleaning and refitting per the workshop manual is acceptable. Always torque the pan evenly to spec and check for leaks.

Use the Mitsubishi-specified ATF for the exact transmission code on your Pajero. Period documentation for early-90s Mitsubishi automatics commonly specifies DiaQueen ATF SP-II or a Dexron II equivalent in some markets, with later units moving to SP-III. Don’t mix fluids, confirm via the owner’s or workshop manual and the transmission ID plate.

After refilling, check the level with the engine idling, transmission in Neutral, on level ground, at operating temperature. If the strainer is restricted, typical symptoms include delayed engagement, flare on upshifts, or shudder. Addressing the filter and fluid early can restore shift quality and extend transmission life.

Technical references: Mitsubishi Motors Workshop Manual — Pajero/Montero V20 (1991–1996), Automatic Transmission sections, ATSG Mitsubishi V4AW2/V4AW3 and V4A51 Technical Manuals, Haynes Montero/Pajero 1992–1999.

• Automatic: has an internal strainer/filter — serviceable when the pan is off.
• Manual: no transmission filter — not used by design, maintain with correct gear oil and periodic changes.

Popular questions

Does a 1993 Pajero have a transmission filter?
Automatic versions do — it’s an internal strainer inside the pan. Manual versions don’t use a filter, they rely on the correct gear oil and a magnetic drain plug to capture particles.

How often should the Pajero’s transmission filter be changed?
For autos, plan a pan service with strainer replacement or cleaning roughly every 60,000–100,000 km, or earlier if towing or off-roading. Always follow the factory manual for your exact transmission code and driving conditions.

Which ATF should be used in a 1993 Pajero automatic?
Use the ATF specified in the owner’s/workshop manual for your gearbox. Many early-90s Pajero autos specify Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or a Dexron II equivalent in some markets, some later units specify SP-III. Don’t mix types and verify against the transmission ID and local spec.