# Mitsubishi Pajero Water in Oil — Common Issues in New Zealand

> The Mitsubishi Pajero is a popular 4WD in New Zealand with known oil contamination vulnerabilities. Here is what owners need to know.

- Canonical URL: https://www.eek.nz/news/mitsubishi-pajero-water-in-oil-nz
- Published: 2026-02-24
- Author: EEK Mechanical
- Publisher: EEK Mechanical, a trade name of Forman Pacific, LLC

## The Pajero in New Zealand

The Mitsubishi Pajero has been a fixture of New Zealand's 4WD market for decades. The NL through NT generations — particularly those fitted with the 3.2-litre 4M41 diesel — are popular with farmers, recreational users, and off-road enthusiasts. They're used in conditions that expose them to water ingestion risk.

## 4M41 Diesel Oil Cooler

The 4M41 diesel uses a water-to-oil heat exchanger mounted in the valley of the engine. This cooler is known to develop internal leaks on high-mileage examples, allowing coolant to enter the oil circuit. The contamination can be subtle at first — slightly elevated coolant consumption and a faint milkiness on the oil cap — progressing to full emulsification if not addressed.

## River Crossing Risk

Pajero owners frequently use their vehicles for river crossings on station access and high-country tracks. The standard air intake height on a Pajero (approximately 600mm) can be exceeded in deep crossings. A raised snorkel is strongly recommended for vehicles used regularly in this environment.

## Get Help

EEK Mechanical has extensive experience with Pajero oil contamination events across New Zealand. We tow your vehicle to a certified workshop and coordinate an oil manufacturer-spec fuel system recovery to 4M41 specification. Call [0800 769 000](tel:0800769000).

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Source: https://www.eek.nz/news/mitsubishi-pajero-water-in-oil-nz