[4ePikanini]

The OP has a 2001 so I assume he has a Gen3 with the electric short stick.

In that case there can be many reasons for the flashing lights.

ECU error
vacuum error
solenoid error
actuator error
diff sensor error
transfer case sensor error

As per link to my site above, look if the shaft on the diff is moving back and forth between 2h and 4h. If it is then the flashing lights can be ignored for the time being and the error is most likely a sensor switch.

If the shaft on the diff is not moving back and forth between 2h and 4h then the problem will be a vacuum solenoid or actuator or vacuum related problem.

[troos]

'lo you all

Thanks for the many responses. Just an update from me how things turned out in the end.

The way the service manager (JJ from Tygerberg Mitsubishi) explained it to me is that the switches on the gearbox press down on little balls that lock in the 4x4 mode you choose. These little balls of my Pajero were rusted, all 5 of them. It was quiet an issue to have them removed and replaced. And then, 2 of the 5 switched were broken.

It was quiet an expensive exercise. They replaced all 5 switches for the cost of 2, but I'm happy that the 4x4 control unit is now working 100%. It proved itself a couple of days later in the Richtersveld.

Why those little balls were rusted I have no idea. I guess its one of those things when buying a second hand car.....