Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan, competing in a segment with strong domestic and import offerings.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking reliable, comfortable, and well-equipped transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Nissan Altima.
Differentiation:
Often offered distinct styling, available V6 engines, and competitive pricing.
Exterior Styling:
Aerodynamic and modern design for its era, distinguishing it from some competitors.
Interior Comfort:
Spacious cabin with comfortable seating, often available with premium options.
Performance Options:
Availability of both efficient 4-cylinder and powerful V6 engines.
Engine Service And Repair:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all engine variants.
Transmission Service And Repair:
Covers both automatic and manual transmissions, including diagnostics, fluid service, and component replacement.
Braking System:
Front/rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnostics and repair, hydraulic systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, multi-link rear suspension, power steering system overhaul.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition system, body control modules.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnostics and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold repair and replacement.
Body And Frame:
Exterior trim, doors, windows, body panel repair, structural integrity.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.
Engine Rebuilding:
Piston ring replacement, cylinder head overhaul, crankshaft and bearing service.
Transmission Overhaul:
Disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of automatic and manual transmissions.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding.
Electrical Component Testing And Replacement:
Testing and replacement of sensors, actuators, ECUs, and other electrical modules.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Specific procedures and torque specifications for timing belt replacement (critical for interference engines).
Suspension Component Replacement:
Ball joint, tie rod, strut, and bushing replacement.
Diagnostic Trouble Code Retrieval And Interpretation:
Procedures for accessing and understanding OBD-II codes.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for engine, transmission, ABS, and other electronic systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, and measurement specifications for all components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Engine Code 4Cyl:
4G63 SOHC (2.4L)
Engine Displacement 4Cyl:
2351 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower 4Cyl:
Approx. 140-145 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
Torque 4Cyl:
Approx. 150-155 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm
Engine Code V6:
6G72 SOHC (3.0L)
Engine Displacement V6:
2972 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower V6:
Approx. 175-185 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
Torque V6:
Approx. 185-195 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some models, or Distributor with Coil Pack.
Timing Mechanism 4Cyl:
Timing Belt (Interference Engine - critical replacement)
Timing Mechanism V6:
Timing Belt (Interference Engine - critical replacement)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1998 models in easily retrievable public databases, but generally considered safe for its era.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1998 models.
ABS:
Available, typically standard on V6 and higher trim 4-cyl models.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this model year.
Airbags Driver:
Standard (Front)
Airbags Passenger:
Standard (Front)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe use) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal use).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate specific)
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical interval, interference engine).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (OEM recommended type).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT/OAT coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or Mitsubishi Genuine Power Steering Fluid (refer to manual).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water with windshield washer solvent additive.
Timing Belt Failure:
Catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt breaks or jumps. Regular replacement is paramount.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some early 8th-gen models may experience transmission hard shifting or delayed engagement, often related to valve body or solenoid issues.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts are common with age and mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion on grounds, faulty window regulators, and intermittent HVAC blower motor issues can occur.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Mitsubishi History In Usa:
Mitsubishi Motors established a significant presence in the US market by the late 1980s, known for value and diverse offerings.
Galant 8Th Gen Introduction:
The 8th generation Galant (E30/E50/E70/E80 chassis) was introduced in North America for the 1994 model year, with updates leading into 1998.
Galant 1998 Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, feature packaging adjustments, and potential powertrain refinements from earlier 8th-gen models.
Assembly Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (for North American market)
Production Years 8Th Gen:
1994-1998 (North America)