Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Galant served as a popular mid-size sedan, competing in a segment with established players like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus. It was known for its distinctive styling, available performance options, and value proposition.
Competitive Analysis:
During its 1996-2003 production run, the Galant (particularly the E150 generation) was positioned against competitors focusing on reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort. Mitsubishi often differentiated itself with sportier trims (like the GTS) and available all-wheel-drive (AWD) on certain models, appealing to a slightly more performance-oriented buyer within the segment.
Key Features:
Distinctive "four-diamond" styling, available V6 engines, optional AWD, comfortable interior, robust build quality for its era.
Model Variants Covered:
Includes coverage for various trim levels such as ES, LS, GTS, and potentially AWD or VR-4 variants depending on the specific split of years within the manual.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanicals, engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, automatic transmission (AT), manual transmission (MT), clutch system, braking system (ABS), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), drivetrain (FWD, AWD), climate control, power windows, power locks, power seats, lighting, body electrical, audio system, airbags, body repair, body hardware, diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, component inspection, disassembly and reassembly of all major systems, diagnosis of common problems, repair procedures for electrical faults, body panel alignment and repair, HVAC system servicing, suspension and steering alignment, brake caliper and rotor replacement, engine tuning, transmission servicing, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and resolution.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic to advanced repair, overhaul procedures, detailed diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and specifications for all covered systems.
Diagnostic Tools Covered:
OBD-II scanner for engine codes, specialized Mitsubishi diagnostic tools (e.g., MUT-III for later models, or generic scanners compatible with Mitsu protocols), multimeter for electrical testing, oscilloscope for advanced diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams Quality:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams including component locations, wire colors, and connector pinouts. Essential for electrical troubleshooting.
Body Repair Procedures:
Includes procedures for body panel removal/installation, dent repair, frame straightening (if applicable), paint and finish guidance, and alignment specifications.
Transmission Overhaul Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of both automatic and manual transmissions, including torque specifications and clutch pack clearances.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, cylinder head reconditioning (valve guides, seals, surfacing), piston and ring replacement, bearing inspection and replacement, crankshaft inspection, timing component replacement, and engine assembly with torque specifications.
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Front and rear suspension component identification, disassembly/assembly (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars), steering rack and linkage repair, wheel alignment procedures and specifications.
Electrical System Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of starter, alternator, battery, ignition, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, power distribution, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
HVAC Coverage:
Refrigerant handling (R134a), AC compressor service, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, heater core, control panel diagnostics, leak detection, and charging procedures.
Engine Options:
4G63 2.4L SOHC I4, 6A12 2.0L V6 MIVEC, 6A13 2.5L V6 MIVEC
2.4L Sohc I4 (4G63) Horsepower:
Approx. 140-150 hp
2.4L Sohc I4 (4G63) Torque:
Approx. 145-155 lb-ft
2.5L V6 (6A13) Horsepower:
Approx. 160-170 hp (non-turbo), 200+ hp (VR-4 turbo variants, less common in later years of this range)
2.5L V6 (6A13) Torque:
Approx. 150-160 lb-ft (non-turbo), 220+ lb-ft (VR-4 turbo variants)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Management System:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, idle speed, and emissions. Features include sensor inputs like MAF/MAP, TPS, CKP, CMP, O2 sensors, ECT.
Cooling System Components:
Radiator, radiator fan (electric or viscous), water pump, thermostat, coolant reservoir, hoses, and associated sensors.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II on some models)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - particularly on higher performance trims or specific models.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Varies by transmission type. For AT, typically Dexron-III or equivalent; for MT, GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil. Manual will specify precise grade.
Automatic Transmission Codes:
Examples: F4A41, F4A42, F5A51 (for INVECS-II Sportronic) - manual will specify correct codes for each year/engine.
Manual Transmission Codes:
Examples: KM210, KM211, W5MG1 (for AWD models) - manual will specify correct codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on operating environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Iridium plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km). Standard plugs: 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most climates. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green silicate-inhibited type. Capacity ~7-9 quarts. Consult manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check master cylinder cap).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF DEXRON-II or III, or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid. Consult manual for exact type.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will specify exact grade and API service classification.
Known Issues:
Premature catalytic converter failure (especially on early models), EGR valve issues, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), occasional transmission control module (TCM) problems, ABS sensor failures, oil pan gasket leaks, engine mounts.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for 4G63 engines. V6 engines may have timing chains or belts; verify specific engine for interval.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Purolator: L14459, Wix: 51372, Fram: PH3569 (Check manual for exact and specific fitment).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Wix: 49356, Purolator: A34620 (Check manual for exact and specific fitment).
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors, a division of Mitsubishi Group, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for innovation and performance-oriented vehicles like the Lancer Evolution.
Model Evolution:
The Galant (from Japanese 'gyaran' for Gallant) has been in production since 1969. The 1996-2003 models represent the eighth generation (E80/E90) and the ninth generation (E150), transitioning from the sleeker, more rounded E80/E90 design to the more aerodynamic, crisper lines of the E150.
Production Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Mizushima Plant), with some assembly in other global locations depending on market.
