Segment:
Mid-size sedan / family car
Target Audience:
Discerning owners seeking to maintain their vehicle to factory standards, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu.
Galant Advantage:
Known for stylish design (especially the VR-4), comfortable ride, and often more engaging handling than some competitors. The VR-4 offered sophisticated AWD and turbocharged performance.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering users to perform a wide range of tasks, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services. 'No Extra fees, No Expiry dates' ensures long-term usability.
Vehicle Appeal:
The 1997-2001 Galant offered a blend of comfort, performance (especially the VR-4), and distinctive styling, making it an attractive option for those seeking an alternative to more common Japanese sedans.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, rebuild, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (EGR, catalytic converter), engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internal components, shift mechanisms, overhaul procedures, fluid specifications, torque specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic system, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, overhaul, fluid types, service procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) / All-wheel drive (AWD) systems (including viscous coupling for AWD variants), drive shafts, CV joints, differentials, hub bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, service procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, column lock, alignment, fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant types, compressor, condenser, evaporator, cabin filter, service procedures.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, dashboard, sound deadening.
Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, diagnostic codes for SRS.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts, mechanical diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system testing, ABS diagnostics, HVAC system diagnostics.
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, engine data, electrical specifications, alignment data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs to major overhauls and component rebuilds. Includes detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Standard Engine Usdm:
2.4L 4-cylinder (4G64 SOHC)
Optional Engine Usdm:
3.0L V6 (6G72 SOHC)
Performance Variants:
2.5L V6 Twin-Turbo (6A13TT) - Galant VR-4 (specific markets, high performance)
4G64 Horsepower:
~142-156 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on year/tune)
4G64 Torque:
~159-170 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (depending on year/tune)
6G72 V6 Horsepower:
~195-200 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
6G72 V6 Torque:
~215-220 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
6A13Tt Vr4 Horsepower:
~237-280 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market/spec)
6A13Tt Vr4 Torque:
~258-300 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (depending on market/spec)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for non-turbo, 91+ for VR-4)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 stars (1998 model year typical, may vary slightly by year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 stars (1998 model year typical)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (Good for later models with side airbags, if equipped)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on V6 models, standard on some higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Optional side airbags available on some later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts. Pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years for the 4G6x engines (critical for non-interference engines, but recommended regardless).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for precise spec).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+3 or ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron/Mercon compatible fluid, check manual for exact spec).
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to vibrations, especially on the V6 models.
Suspension Bushings:
Degradation of rubber bushings leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Automatic Transmission:
Some models may experience delayed shifting or harsh engagement, often related to fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors.
Airbag Light:
Occasional illumination of the SRS airbag warning light due to sensor or wiring issues.
Mitsubishi Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker with a history dating back to 1920, known for its diverse range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs and performance models (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
Eighth Gen Galant Launch:
The eighth generation debuted in 1993 in Japan, arriving in North America for the 1994 model year. The 1997-2001 represents a facelifted version of this generation, featuring updated styling and technology.
Vr4 Significance:
The Galant VR-4, particularly in its earlier generations and niche later iterations, was a halo car known for its advanced technology like all-wheel drive and four-wheel steering, establishing a performance lineage.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan and the United States (Normal, Illinois).
