The real cost of owning a Mitsubishi Pajero in South Africa is less about the purchase price and more about fuel, tyres and servicing over the years you keep it. Buy a well-maintained 3.2 DI-D and the running costs are predictable and reasonable for a full-size 4×4; buy a neglected one, or a thirsty V6 petrol, and the sums change quickly. Here’s how the total cost breaks down.
1. Purchase and depreciation
The good news for buyers is that most Pajeros have already taken their big depreciation hit. In mid-2026, used examples on AutoTrader spanned roughly R70,000 to R880,000, with tidy Gen 3 diesels from about R150,000 and later Gen 4s from around R400,000. Older Pajeros hold value slowly from here because demand among off-roaders and overlanders stays strong — a genuine long-term ownership plus.
2. Fuel — your biggest running cost
Budget realistically. The 3.2 diesel returns around 9 L/100 km on the open road but nearer 11–13 L/100 km in mixed and city driving. The 3.5 and 3.8 V6 petrols are noticeably thirstier. Over 20,000 km a year, fuel will comfortably be your single largest ownership expense, so the diesel’s economy is a big part of why it’s the smart long-term buy.
3. Servicing and maintenance
| Item | Typical SA cost | Interval / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Major service | ~R2,800–R3,700 (avg ~R3,300) | Independent workshop; dealer higher |
| Brakes (pads & discs) | R2,000–R6,000 | Every ~40,000–60,000 km |
| Battery | R1,200–R3,000 | Every 2–4 years (SA heat) |
| Timing chain / clutch work | R5,000–R15,000 | Occasional, budget ahead |
Figures based on South African service-cost data (Engine Finder). Using an independent workshop typically saves 30–50% versus a dealer.
4. Tyres, insurance and consumables
- Tyres: a heavy 4×4 on 17–18” rubber, and all-terrains cost more and wear faster than road tyres.
- Insurance: generally moderate for the class; older models are cheaper to insure but check for parts-availability loading.
- Consumables: diff and transfer-case oils, filters and coolant are part of proper 4×4 upkeep, not optional extras.
The bottom line
A 3.2 DI-D Pajero rewards long-term ownership: strong parts support, an engine that reaches 300,000 km+ with care, and slow depreciation. Plan for fuel as the dominant cost, service preventively at a good independent, and budget for the occasional bigger job, and the Pajero is one of the more sensible full-size 4x4s to run in South Africa. For the maintenance side in detail, see what regular Pajero maintenance should include.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to service a Mitsubishi Pajero in South Africa?
A major Pajero service typically costs around R2,800–R3,700, averaging about R3,300 at an independent workshop. Dealers charge more, so many owners save 30–50% by using a qualified independent.
What is the biggest cost of owning a Pajero?
Fuel. The 3.2 diesel uses roughly 9 L/100 km on the highway and 11–13 L/100 km in mixed driving, so over a typical year fuel outweighs servicing, tyres and insurance combined.
Does the Pajero hold its value?
Yes, relatively well. Strong demand from off-roaders and overlanders means used Pajeros — especially the 3.2 DI-D — depreciate slowly once they’re a few years old, which helps long-term ownership costs.
Is a Pajero expensive to maintain?
Not for a full-size 4×4. Routine servicing is reasonable and the 3.2 DI-D is durable. The main advice is to service preventively and budget for occasional bigger jobs like timing-chain guides or a clutch.
Is a diesel or petrol Pajero cheaper to run?
The 3.2 diesel is significantly cheaper to run than the V6 petrols thanks to its better economy and torque. For long-term ownership in South Africa, the diesel is the clear value choice.