Model Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Chassis Codes:
E31A, E32A, E33A, E34A, E35A, E38A, E39A, E37A, E36A
Generation Codes:
E30 Series (also known as the 7th Generation Galant)
Target Audience:
Families, professionals seeking reliable and stylish transportation
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina
Competitive Advantage:
Often praised for its unique styling (especially the sedan), comfortable ride, and optional advanced technologies like four-wheel steering (4WS) on select trims.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling with a focus on passenger comfort and a smooth, quiet ride. Available in sedan and a sporty coupe (which is a different chassis code and typically not covered by this specific manual series but worth noting the Galant family). The E30 generation is often recognized for its distinctive design language of the era.
Available Features Early 90S:
Optional 4-wheel steering (4WS), available all-wheel drive (AWD) on certain models, premium audio systems, automatic climate control, power everything.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transaxle, driveline components (CV joints, drive shafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, non-ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), infotainment system, engine control module (ECM) wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM) wiring diagrams
Body Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body sealing, doors, windows, hood, trunk
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for EFI systems, component testing procedures
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuilding, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator repair
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine bearing clearances, piston ring end gap, valve lash adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical system schematics for all major components and systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork)
Engine Codes:
4G63, 4G63T (turbocharged), 6G71 (V6)
Common Engines Usdm:
2.0L SOHC (4G63), 2.5L V6 SOHC (6G71), 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged (4G63T - often found in performance variants like the VR-4)
2.0L DOHc Mpi (4G63):
Approx. 135-150 hp, 125-130 lb-ft torque
2.5L V6 Sohc (6G71):
Approx. 170-180 hp, 170-175 lb-ft torque
2.0L DOHc Turbocharged (4G63T - E.G., Vr-4):
Approx. 200-240 hp, 203-220 lb-ft torque
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-Point Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Types:
5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD - typically paired with V6 or Turbo engines and 4WS)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, often with 'Sport' or 'Economy' modes.
Manual Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearboxes available on performance models.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
No specific ratings readily available for this exact year range; safety standards were different. Manual will detail passive safety features.
Brake Assist Type:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on higher trims and some AWD models.
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on most trims; may be present on high-performance AWD variants.
Four Wheel Steering:
Available on select models (e.g., GSR, VR-4 variants), offering enhanced agility.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard or widely available during this period; passenger airbags were less common.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front and rear occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cabin, crumple zones.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM cassette players, optional CD players on later models. Premium Mitsubishi/Infinity or Clarion sound systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Four Wheel Steering:
Advanced active steering system on specific models, improving maneuverability and high-speed stability.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to basic infotainment and vehicle systems. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Recommended at every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type - copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63 engines (non-interference on some models, interference on others). Typically 60,000-90,000 miles. Manual will specify exact interval and whether interference or non-interference.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH rated, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi SP-II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., Diaqueen SP-III or Dexron III/Mercon compatible).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 rated gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual).
Engine 4G63:
Timing belt failure can be catastrophic if interference engine. Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, rear main seal. Turbo models can have turbo wear or seal issues.
Transmission Automatic:
Slipping in higher gears, harsh shifting. Fluid changes are critical.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common with age and mileage. Struts and shocks will require replacement.
Electrical:
Door lock actuators can fail. Power window motors. Fading digital displays. Corroded grounds can cause various electrical gremlins.
Rust:
Common in areas with road salt, particularly on rocker panels, wheel wells, and floor pans.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, part of the Mitsubishi keiretsu. Known for its diverse product range and engineering prowess.
Galant Evolution:
The Galant has a long history, evolving through numerous generations. The E30 generation (1987-1993) was a significant departure with its aerodynamic styling and technological advancements, aiming for a more global appeal.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly in other regions for specific markets.
Sales Performance Era:
Competed strongly in the sedan market, particularly with the introduction of higher-performance variants and AWD.
Car And Driver:
The 1990 Galant was a Car and Driver Ten Best list recipient.
Motor Trend:
Often reviewed favorably by automotive publications for its styling, handling, and value proposition.
Epa Fuel Economy:
Variable based on engine and transmission. Manual may contain specific MPG figures for different configurations.
