Parts for your 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero-Brake calipers

2000 Mitsubishi Pajero brake calipers — what they do and how to look after them

Based on the Mitsubishi Motors Pajero NM (2000–2002) workshop manual and major Australasian parts catalogues from Bendix and DBA, the 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero runs ventilated disc brakes with floating brake calipers at the front and rear. So yes — brake calipers are absolutely fitted to this model and they’re central to how the Pajero pulls up, whether it’s towing, touring, or tackling corrugations.

On this generation Pajero, the front calipers are a robust floating design with multiple pistons to deliver strong, even clamping on the rotors. The rears are single-piston floating calipers. The caliper’s job is simple but critical: when the driver presses the pedal, hydraulic pressure pushes the pistons out, squeezing the pads against the rotor to convert motion into heat and stop the vehicle. The slide pins let the caliper centre itself so both pads wear evenly — when those pins gum up, braking gets noisy, uneven, and less effective.

As part of regular servicing, a Pajero of this age benefits from a close look at each caliper every 10,000–15,000 km. Off-road use, water crossings, and coastal driving can accelerate corrosion and contamination. It pays to clean and re-lubricate the slide pins with the correct high-temp brake grease, check the piston dust boots for splits, and make sure the banjo bolt and hose unions are dry. The Pajero’s rear parking brake is the drum-in-hat style, separate from the rear caliper, so don’t be surprised when the handbrake adjustment doesn’t involve the caliper itself.

When fitting new pads or rotors, it’s smart practice to rebuild tired calipers with quality seal kits or replace them outright if pistons are pitted or bores are corroded. Always use fresh DOT 4 fluid and bleed until no air remains, a complete fluid change every two years helps keep pistons moving freely and protects the ABS modulator. After any pad or rotor work, bed the brakes in gently to avoid glazing. If the Pajero’s seen mud or sand, rinse the brakes after the trip and do a few light stops to dry them out before parking.

• Watch for: pulling to one side, uneven pad wear, squeal or grind, hot wheel, soft pedal, or visible fluid weep at the caliper.
• Replace or rebuild calipers if slides seize, pistons stick, or leaks appear, don’t ignore heat discoloration on a single wheel.
• Use manufacturer torque specs on caliper bolts and hose fittings, fit new copper washers on banjo bolts.

Popular questions about 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero brake calipers

Do all 2000 Pajeros have rear brake calipers, or are some drums?
For the NM-series Pajero released in 2000 in Australia and New Zealand, rear brakes are ventilated discs with floating calipers. Earlier second‑gen Pajeros and the Pajero Sport/Challenger used rear drums in some trims, which is where the confusion often comes from. If in doubt, check the build plate or VIN details against a trusted parts catalogue.

What are the signs a Pajero caliper is sticking?
Owners often notice the vehicle pulling under braking, uneven or rapid pad wear, a hot wheel after a short drive, or a dragging feel at low speed. You might also hear squeal after rain, or smell hot brakes. A sticking slide pin or a corroded piston is usually to blame, ignoring it can cook the rotor and pads, so it’s worth sorting quickly.

How often should the calipers and brake fluid be serviced?
Inspect calipers every service, clean and grease slides as needed, and replace any torn boots or perished hoses. Brake fluid should be flushed every two years (or around 40,000 km) with quality DOT 4. For vehicles that tow or see regular off‑road work, more frequent checks are a good idea.