Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair knowledge.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu during its production run.
Design:
Known for its distinctive styling, often featuring a coupe-like roofline and refined interior for its class.
Performance Orientation:
Some trims offered sportier tuning and more powerful engine options, appealing to those seeking a balance of practicality and driving engagement.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul procedures for all engine variants, including timing belt/chain service, cooling system, lubrication, emissions control.
Transmission:
Repair, overhaul, and diagnostics for automatic and manual transmissions, including valve body service, torque converter procedures, clutch replacement, and shift control systems.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including CV axles, differential service, prop shafts, and related components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, ball joints, steering knuckles, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and alignment adjustments.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors, and related circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, underbody coatings, structural components, and chassis diagnostics.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, compressor service, evaporator, condenser, and climate control modules.
Safety Systems:
Airbag systems, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnosis and repair, seatbelt mechanisms.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system, trouble code (DTC) interpretation, diagnostic scan tool usage, and component testing procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often presented in a flowchart format.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Rebuild:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including critical measurements and tolerances.
Calibration:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules after component replacement (e.g., throttle body, steering angle sensor).
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including in-depth electrical system diagnostics and wiring schematics.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5-Star (Front & Rear Passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick Status:
Good (for certain aspects, check specific IIHS reports for full details)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Optional Active Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front advanced airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard front seat-mounted side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Optional front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe conditions.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. (Always verify with manual based on specific coolant type).
Timing Belt Replacement 4Cyl:
2009 Galant 4-cylinder uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent replacement (typically inspected for noise/wear, not a fixed interval replacement). Check manual for details.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on driving conditions and transmission type. Crucial to check manual for exact fluid type and procedure.
Engine Oil Type 4Cyl:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API certified). Check manual for exact specification and API service category.
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API certified). Check manual for exact specification and API service category.
Engine Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink color, or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Misfires:
Can occur due to worn spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors, especially on the 4-cylinder engine.
Transmission Hesitation:
Some automatic transmissions may exhibit occasional hesitation or rough shifting; often related to fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Suspension Noise:
Worn sway bar links, bushings, or ball joints can lead to clunking or rattling noises over bumps.
HVAC Issues:
Compressor clutch failure or refrigerant leaks can affect AC performance.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket leaks are not uncommon with age and mileage.
Manufacturer Origin:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Japan
Brand Focus:
Known for innovative technologies, robust engineering, and participation in motorsports (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
Generation Start Year:
First generation introduced in 1976
Ninth Generation Debut:
Introduced for the 2004 model year, the 2009 model is part of the ninth generation (CY/CZ).
Design Philosophy:
The ninth generation aimed for a more upscale and sporty image, with styling cues differentiating it from earlier, more conservative designs.
Production Plant:
Primarily manufactured in the United States (Normal, Illinois) for the North American market.
Production Years For Ninth Gen:
2004-2007 (initial phase), with updates and continuation through 2009.