Segment:
Mid-size sedan/coupe, known for its sporty styling and advanced engineering for its era.
Reputation:
The Galant from this period was recognized for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics, especially in higher trim levels and performance variants.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Maxima.
Design:
Aerodynamic styling with distinctive front-end design and a spacious interior.
Performance Variants:
Availability of turbocharged models (GSR, VR-4) with advanced all-wheel drive and four-wheel steering systems, setting benchmarks for performance sedans.
Technology For Era:
Features like optional ABS, electronic climate control, and advanced engine management systems.
Powertrain:
Complete coverage of engine mechanicals, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, lubrication, and cooling systems.
Drivetrain:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, differentials, drive axles, and clutches.
Chassis:
In-depth information on suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering gear, power steering systems, and wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic systems, brake calipers, rotors, pads, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Extensive electrical schematics, diagnostic procedures for starting and charging systems, lighting, power accessories, and electronic control units (ECUs).
Body And Trim:
Procedures for interior trim removal/installation, body panel adjustments, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and sealant application.
HVAC:
Coverage of air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, heating system operation, blower motor, and control modules.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, cylinder head removal/installation, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and performance-related symptoms.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing parts such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, radiators, and turbochargers (for turbo models).
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all major components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
References diagnostic procedures and potential use of specialized tools, though specific tool part numbers may not be listed.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Includes symptom-based troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic trees.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0 L (1997 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated
Engine 1 Horsepower:
105-135 hp (depending on market and specific tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
120-130 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tune)
Engine 2 Name:
4G63T DOHC
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.0 L (1997 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4, Turbocharged, DOHC
Engine 2 Horsepower:
195-240 hp (depending on trim level, e.g., GSR, VR-4)
Engine 2 Torque:
203-257 lb-ft (depending on trim level, e.g., GSR, VR-4)
Engine 3 Displacement:
1.8 L (1830 cc)
Engine 3 Configuration:
Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated
Engine 3 Horsepower:
100-115 hp
Engine 3 Torque:
105-115 lb-ft
Engine 4 Name:
6A12 V6 SOHC
Engine 4 Displacement:
2.0 L (1998 cc)
Engine 4 Configuration:
V6, Naturally Aspirated
Engine 4 Horsepower:
145-150 hp
Engine 4 Torque:
130-135 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 or higher)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless ignition often on later models or performance variants)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
All Wheel Drive:
Available on select performance models (e.g., VR-4) in conjunction with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Includes viscous coupling center differential and Torsen limited-slip rear differential on some models.
Four Wheel Steering:
Available on the GSR and VR-4 models, electronically controlled rear-wheel steering system (ECS).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to specific model and transmission for exact type).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+2 or equivalent (refer to specific model and transmission for exact type, often Dexron II/III compatible).
Length:
Approx. 175-180 inches (4445-4570 mm), varies by body style and trim.
Width:
Approx. 68-70 inches (1727-1778 mm).
Height:
Approx. 54-55 inches (1372-1397 mm).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4.5 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3400 lbs (1270-1540 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA crash test ratings for this generation are not readily available in comprehensive detail, but the vehicle was designed to meet contemporary safety standards.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models.
Seat Belts:
Standard front seat belts with optional shoulder belts. Rear seat belts standard.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became available on later models within this generation, but was not standard on all trims.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with energy-absorbing front and rear crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory cassette player or AM/FM radio with optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Display:
Basic analog gauge cluster and climate controls. Digital climate control available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, with electronic controls.
Traction Control:
Limited slip differentials and ABS were the primary traction aids. Advanced electronic traction control was not common for this era.
Original Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB. Antennas were typically power-operated.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles (20,000-25,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 4G6x engines, typically 60,000 miles (100,000 km). For 6A12 V6, usually 60,000 miles (100,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity grade is common. Check owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Peak Global Lifetime or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6-7 quarts (5.7-6.6 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid (refer to manual).
Engine Mounts:
Degradation and cracking of engine mounts, leading to vibration.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar) causing noise and poor handling.
Timing Belt:
Critical component; failure leads to severe engine damage. Regular replacement is paramount. Tensioner bearing issues can occur.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals.
Turbocharger Wear:
On turbo models, potential wear or failure of the turbocharger and associated plumbing if maintenance is neglected.
Oxygen Sensors:
Failure of oxygen sensors can impact fuel economy and emissions.
Automatic Transmission:
Can exhibit shifting issues or premature wear if not maintained with regular fluid changes.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history dating back to 1917 (as part of the Mitsubishi group), with automotive production beginning in the 1910s. Known for engineering innovation and diverse product lines.
Galant Generations:
The 1989-1993 model represents the fifth generation (E30 series) of the Mitsubishi Galant, which saw significant styling and mechanical updates, including the introduction of the groundbreaking GSR and VR-4 performance variants.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform elements with other Mitsubishi models of the era, including the Eclipse and other global Mitsubishi sedans.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Years:
1987-1993 (for the E30 generation globally, with 1989-1993 being the core focus for this manual).