Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Brake pads

1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Brake Pads — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Brake pads are absolutely relevant to the 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero. Factory documentation confirms it: the Mitsubishi Pajero (V20 series, 1991–1999) Workshop Manual, Group 35A – Brakes, specifies ventilated front disc brakes with pads on all variants, while the rear axle is model-dependent (some trims run rear discs with pads, others use drum brakes with shoes). The Haynes/Mitsubishi Montero–Pajero 1992–1999 repair manual echoes the same setup. So, regardless of rear configuration, every 1998 Pajero uses front brake pads and they’re a routine service item.

On a 1998 Pajero, the brake pads clamp the rotors to turn pedal pressure into stopping force. Good pads give consistent feel, shorter stopping distances, and quieter operation. They’re the frontline of braking performance whether it’s daily commuting, towing the boat, or bouncing along a corrugated gravel road.

As part of regular servicing, pads should be inspected for thickness, even wear, glazing and contamination. Many workshops in Australia and New Zealand check pad thickness at each service and recommend replacement once friction material approaches the manufacturer’s minimum (often around 3 mm remaining). It’s also smart to check rotor condition, caliper slide-pin movement, and brake fluid age while you’re there.

• Hear a squeal or chirp that changes with braking? Could be wear indicators telling it’s time.
• Longer stopping distances, a soft pedal, or pulling to one side point to uneven pad wear or sticky slide pins.
• Vibration under braking can indicate rotor issues that will chew through fresh pads if left unattended.

When replacing pads, fit quality parts that suit how the Pajero is used. Semi‑metallic compounds handle heat and towing well, ceramic options run cleaner and quieter. Replace any tired hardware, clean and lubricate slide pins with a high‑temp brake lubricant, and confirm rotor thickness and run‑out against spec. If the rear of your Pajero has discs, do pads there too, if it’s drums, inspect and adjust/replace the shoes and hardware instead. After installation, bed in the pads with a series of moderate stops to transfer an even layer of material to the rotors and avoid glazing.

For local conditions—steep descents, coastal humidity, beach work and water crossings—plan on more frequent checks. Heavy loads and off‑road driving can accelerate pad wear, so keep an eye on things between scheduled services.

FAQs

Do all 1998 Pajeros have brake pads on the rear as well?
Front axle: yes, all have disc pads. Rear axle: depends on the trim. Some have rear disc brakes with pads, others run drum brakes with shoes. A quick look through the wheel spokes (or a VIN/parts check) will confirm what your specific Pajero has.

How often should brake pads be replaced on a 1998 Pajero?
There’s no single kilometre figure because driving style and load matter. Inspect at every service, many owners see 30,000–70,000 km from a set. Replace when friction material is near the minimum thickness, when the wear indicator squeals, or if there are any symptoms like judder or fade.

Can a DIYer replace Pajero brake pads at home?
Yes, with the right tools, axle stands and care. The job involves removing the caliper, retracting the piston, fitting pads and hardware, and torquing fasteners correctly. If you spot uneven wear, seized slide pins, ABS warnings, or spongy pedal feel after the job, it’s best to have a qualified mechanic assess it.