Parts for your 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero-Transmission filter

2005 Mitsubishi Pajero transmission filter — what’s fitted and how it’s serviced

For the 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP series, 3rd gen), the automatic transmission is fitted with an internal transmission oil strainer rather than an external, replaceable cartridge-style filter. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Workshop Manual for NM/NP Pajero (Group 23A – Automatic Transmission, V5A51) describe an internal “oil strainer” and do not list routine replacement. Likewise, Mitsubishi’s service schedule for the 2005 Pajero specifies ATF (DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent) changes but no scheduled transmission filter replacement. The factory parts catalogue also identifies the internal strainer within the transmission assembly, serviced only during overhaul.

So yes, there is a filter of sorts on the 2005 Pajero auto, but it’s an internal mesh strainer designed to protect the valve body and pumps from larger debris. It’s not a separate, bolt-on part that gets changed as part of normal servicing. Owners of manual-transmission Pajeros don’t have a transmission filter at all—just oil to refresh at the specified intervals.

Purpose-wise, the internal strainer catches particulates shed from clutch packs and normal wear, helping maintain hydraulic integrity and smooth shift quality. Because it’s a metal screen with a large surface area and the unit runs a high-detergent ATF, Mitsubishi engineers intended it to last the life of the transmission under normal conditions, provided the fluid is kept fresh and the cooling circuit is healthy.

For routine servicing, attention goes to the fluid rather than the filter:

• Use the correct ATF: Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-III (or a high-quality SP-III–approved equivalent).
• Change intervals: typically 60,000–90,000 km for normal use, or sooner for heavy towing, frequent off-road work, high-heat conditions, or lots of stop–start driving.
• When changing ATF, clean the magnet in the pan (if removed), check for excessive metal fuzz, and reseal the pan correctly if it’s been opened (factory uses sealant, not a cork gasket).
• If there’s been a failure (burnt fluid, slipping, or contamination), the transmission should be inspected, the strainer is addressed during repair/overhaul rather than as a driveway service item.
• Always check cooler lines and the radiator/aux cooler flow to keep temps in check—overheating is the enemy of ATF and clutch material.

Bottom line: the 2005 Pajero’s automatic uses an internal strainer that normally isn’t replaced. Keep the correct fluid fresh, watch temperatures, and the trans will generally reward with long service life.

Popular questions

Does a 2005 Pajero have a replaceable transmission filter?
The 2005 Pajero automatic has an internal oil strainer, not a routine replaceable filter. It’s serviced only when the transmission is opened for repair or overhaul. Regular maintenance focuses on using the correct SP-III ATF and changing it at sensible intervals.

What ATF should be used and how often should it be changed?
Use Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-III or an approved SP-III equivalent. For mixed Australian and New Zealand conditions, many workshops recommend 60,000–90,000 km (or 4–5 years). If towing, off-roading, or operating in heat, shorten the interval.

What are signs the internal strainer might be restricted?
Hard or delayed shifts, flare between gears, or a whining pump sound can point to fluid issues or restriction. If the fluid smells burnt or looks dark with glittery debris, stop driving and have a specialist inspect—this goes beyond a simple drain-and-fill.