Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Power steering fluid

1998 Mitsubishi Pajero Power Steering Fluid

Based on Mitsubishi’s own technical literature—namely the Pajero/Montero Workshop Manual (1997–1999, Group 37A Steering) and the 1998 Pajero Owner’s Handbook—the 1998 Pajero uses a hydraulic power steering system and requires automatic transmission fluid (ATF) meeting Dexron II or Dexron III for the power steering circuit. So yes, power steering fluid is very much relevant to this model, there’s no electric power steering on this year’s Pajero.

Power steering fluid does more than just make the wheel feel light. In a 1998 Pajero it transmits hydraulic force from the pump to the steering gear, lubricates internal components, carries away heat, and dampens noise and vibration. Fresh, correct-spec ATF keeps the pump happy, the steering box smooth, and the steering feel consistent whether it’s crawling over ruts or towing the boat to the ramp.

For day-to-day care, it pays to give the fluid a look at each service. Under the bonnet, the reservoir cap’s dipstick shows levels for COLD and HOT. The fluid should be a clean red colour with a mild oil smell. If it’s gone dark, smells burnt, or looks glittery, it’s time for a change. While Mitsubishi didn’t always specify a strict replacement interval for these, a sensible approach in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to refresh the fluid every 60,000–80,000 km or about 4–5 years, sooner if the vehicle tows, sees heavy off-road use, or the steering has started to whine or feel heavy.

When replacing, use a quality ATF labelled Dexron III (compatible with Dexron II). Avoid mixing in generic fluids that don’t explicitly meet Dexron specs. A proper exchange can be done via the return hose to cycle out old fluid, or with a series of drain-and-fills using a fluid extractor. After refilling, bleed by turning the wheel lock-to-lock a few times with the engine running, keeping an eye out for foaming and rechecking the level.

• Watch for leaks at hose crimps, the pump, and the steering gear.
• Listen for pump whine, groaning at low speeds, or shudder when parking—classic signs the fluid is tired or low.
• If the steering effort changes suddenly, stop and inspect before further driving.

What type of power steering fluid does a 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero use?

Mitsubishi’s workshop and owner manuals for the V20-series Pajero specify ATF meeting Dexron II or Dexron III in the power steering system. A modern Dexron III ATF is the go-to choice. Steer clear of CVT fluid or non-Dexron blends, and don’t mix types.

How often should the power steering fluid be changed?

Check level and condition at every service. While many factory schedules don’t list a strict interval, refreshing the fluid about every 60,000–80,000 km or 4–5 years is good preventative maintenance, especially if the vehicle tows, goes off-road, or the fluid looks or smells off.

Where’s the reservoir and how should the level be checked?

The reservoir sits in the engine bay with a screw cap/dipstick (location can vary by engine variant). Check on level ground. For a hot check, drive a few kilometres, then with the engine idling, turn the wheel lock-to-lock, return to centre, and read the dipstick’s HOT mark. Top up only with Dexron-spec ATF.