Model Code:
E39A (1st Gen VR-4)
Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992
Product Name:
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992-Complete Service Manual | Repair | Workshop Manual
Product Description Short:
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 1988-1992 Complete Service, Repair, Workshop Manual DOWNLOAD
Segment:
Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians working on the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4.
Competitors:
Subaru Legacy RS, Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32), Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Sierra Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale (in markets where available).
Performance Focus:
The VR-4 was Mitsubishi's flagship performance model, featuring advanced technology for its time.
Unique Selling Points:
Advanced AWD system, potent turbocharged engine, four-wheel steering (optional on some early models, standard on later E39A), and sporty handling.
Essential Resource:
Crucial for proper maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of this complex performance vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition system, turbocharging, exhaust, cooling system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling unit (VCU), transfer case, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (F5M33) and Automatic transmission (F4A51) specifications, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and operation, brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all major circuits, sensors, and actuators.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, chassis lubrication points, structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (where applicable).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, including the use of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and more.
Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance, electrical issues, and mechanical failures using factory diagnostic tools and methods.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, and other essential technical data.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level (covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds).
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Lists and diagrams for any special tools required for specific repair procedures.
Engine Code:
4G63 (DOHC Turbocharged)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 205-240 hp (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 203-240 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), often with sequential injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended/Required)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS) depending on year.
Turbocharger Type:
Mitsubishi TD05H-14B or similar Garrett/Mitsubishi turbocharger
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific manual for exact recommendation)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter change, verify in manual)
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M33)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (F4A51)
AWD System:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential and optional Active Yaw Control (AYC) on later models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific viscosity and type, e.g., 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA Queen ATF SP-II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Length Inches:
Approx. 178.0 - 179.0 inches
Width Inches:
Approx. 68.9 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 55.1 inches
Wheelbase Inches:
Approx. 100.4 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (varies by transmission and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:
Consult vehicle sticker or manual.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Wheel Size:
15x6.5 inches or 16x6.5 inches (depending on trim/year)
Standard Tire Size:
205/60R15 or 205/55R16 (verify in manual)
NHTSA Ratings:
Data from this era may not be directly comparable to modern standards. Consult specific VIN records if available.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on VR-4 models.
AWD:
All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.
Four Wheel Steering:
Optional on some models, improving maneuverability and high-speed stability.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990 onwards; passenger airbag optional or standard on later models. Verify specific year.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones typical for the era.
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette player, often with a CD player option on later models. Speaker systems varied by trim.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
AWD Awc:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive system, with potential for Active Yaw Control (AYC) on select later models for enhanced handling.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to analog systems of the era; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity unless aftermarket installed.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium/platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical interval, typically 60,000 miles or 5 years for the 4G63 engine. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify in manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi/DIA QUEEN power steering fluid or DEXRON II/III ATF (verify in manual).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Turbocharger Wear:
Turbocharger seals can wear over time, leading to oil consumption and smoke.
Engine Seals And Gaskets:
Common for age-related leaks in valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can cause clunking noises and affect handling.
Power Window Motors:
Can become slow or inoperative due to age and wear.
Rust:
Like many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and chassis components.
Maintenance Schedule Detail
Scheduled Maintenance:
The manual will provide a detailed schedule for 15k, 30k, 60k, and other mileage intervals, covering inspections and replacements.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi has a history of producing robust and technologically advanced vehicles, particularly in performance and four-wheel drive applications.
Galant Lineage:
The Galant VR-4 (E39A chassis) was the performance variant of the seventh-generation Mitsubishi Galant, introduced in 1987.
Vr4 Significance:
The VR-4 designation signified 'Viscous-Coupled Real-time 4-Wheel Drive,' highlighting its advanced drivetrain. It was a precursor to rally legends like the Lancer Evolution.
Production Years:
The E39A Galant VR-4 was produced from late 1987 (for the 1988 model year) through 1992.
Generation Codes:
E39A (VR-4), E33A/E34A (non-turbo variants).
Performance Acclaim:
The Galant VR-4 was often praised for its sophisticated AWD system and powerful turbocharged engine, making it a significant player in the performance sedan market of its time.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Contemporary reviews highlighted its handling and performance capabilities, often comparing it favorably to more established performance marques.
Factory Certification:
This manual represents official factory documentation, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and technical detail.
