2000-2004 Montero Sport Sun Visor: Fixing Droop, Matching Colors & Options

Common Failure Symptoms

The sun visor on a 2000-2004 Montero Sport is a straightforward part, and its failures are almost always mechanical. Here’s what to look out for:

• Drooping or Sagging: This is the most common issue. The visor will not stay in its fully stowed position against the headliner, drooping down and partially obstructing vision. This is caused by wear in the internal pivot mechanism that provides friction.
• Loose at the Mount: The entire visor assembly may feel loose where it attaches to the roof. This is usually caused by the two mounting screws backing out over time.
• Broken Retaining Clip: The small plastic clip on the headliner that holds the outer end of the visor can become brittle and break, leaving the visor unsecured.
• Broken Mirror or Cover: The vanity mirror can crack, or the hinge for the mirror's cover can break, causing it to flap around or not stay closed.
• Vanity Light Failure: For models equipped with illuminated mirrors, the light may stop working. This can be due to a burnt-out bulb, a faulty switch in the mirror assembly, or a problem with the electrical connector.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While there are no major mechanical recalls for the sun visor on this vehicle, there is one relevant compliance campaign to be aware of.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V428000 (Air Bag Label)

This recall, issued in 2004, applied to certain 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Nativa models (the name used for the Montero Sport in some markets). The issue was not a safety defect with the visor itself, but rather that the bilingual English/Spanish air bag warning labels affixed to the sun visors did not meet the federal size requirements. The remedy was for Mitsubishi to mail new, correctly sized labels to vehicle owners. This does not impact the mechanical function or safety of the visor itself.

Buying a Used 2000-2004 Montero Sport Sun Visor

A used OEM sun visor is often the best value, as it ensures a perfect match for color, texture, and fit. Aftermarket visors can have slight color variations and may not feel as durable. Here’s how to ensure you get the right part.

Step 1: Identify Your Exact Visor Type

Before you buy, you must confirm four things about your existing visor:

• Side: Is it for the driver (left) or passenger (right) side? They are not interchangeable.
• Color: Montero Sport interiors from this era were typically available in Gray or Tan (Beige). Hold a white piece of paper next to your visor to accurately see the color.
• Illumination: Does your vanity mirror have a light? If it does, you need a replacement with the light and the corresponding electrical connector. A non-illuminated visor will not have the wiring.
• Sunroof Option: While less common, some vehicles with sunroofs have slightly different headliner components. It's always best to match the part to a vehicle with the same sunroof configuration as yours.

Step 2: Physical Inspection Checklist

When inspecting a used visor, check these key areas:

1. Check the Pivot Stiffness: Hold the mounting base and try to move the visor up and down. It should move smoothly but have enough resistance to hold its position. If it feels very loose, it will droop in your vehicle.
2. Inspect the Mounting Points: Ensure the plastic around the screw holes is not cracked or broken.
3. Test the Mirror Cover: Open and close the vanity mirror cover. The hinge should be intact and hold the cover closed.
4. Examine the Electrical Connector: If it's an illuminated model, check that the connector and pins are clean and free of corrosion.

Sun Visor Replacement Guide

Replacing the sun visor is a simple DIY job that typically takes less than 15 minutes.

Tools Needed:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying off a screw cover)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Position the Visor: Swing the sun visor down as if you were blocking the sun.
2. Expose the Mounting Screws: Look at the base where the visor's arm attaches to the roof. There is often a small plastic cover over the screws. Gently pry this cover off with a small flathead screwdriver to expose two Phillips head screws.
3. Remove the Screws: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove both screws. Hold onto the visor so it doesn’t fall.
4. Disconnect Electrical Connector: If you have an illuminated visor, carefully pull the base away from the headliner to expose a small wiring harness. Depress the tab on the connector and pull it apart.
5. Install the New Visor: If applicable, connect the electrical plug for the new visor. You should hear a click.
6. Mount the New Visor: Align the new visor's base with the screw holes in the roof. Insert and tighten the two Phillips head screws until they are snug. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the plastic base or strip the mounting holes.
7. Replace the Cover: Snap the plastic screw cover back into place. Test the visor's movement and the vanity light to ensure everything is working correctly.

Cost Comparison for a Montero Sport Sun Visor

OEM Part Number Reference

The following OEM part numbers are associated with the 2000-2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport sun visor. These numbers cover the various configurations (left/right, gray/tan, illuminated/non-illuminated). If possible, match the number on your old part to ensure a perfect replacement.

• MR381893
• MR381894
• MR402431
• MR402433
• MR402435
• MR402453
• MR402455
• MR402457
• MR402459
• MR402461
• MR734777

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)