🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Galant

Year:

1997

Platform:

Mitsubishi E platform

Chassis Code:

E33A, E38A, E39A, E35A

Generation Code:

8th Generation (E80/E90 series)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking reliable and stylish transportation.

Key Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina.

Design:

Sleek, aerodynamic styling, often noted for its distinctive 'wave' design cues.

Interior Appointments:

Comfortable seating, well-laid-out dashboard, available premium features depending on trim level.

Performance Options:

Variety of engine choices, offering a balance of fuel economy and power.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Media:

CD-ROM

Page Count Estimate:

Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, engine performance tuning.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor and actuator testing, ECU operation.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Operation, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, clutches, bands, and electronic controls.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, CV joints, transaxle service, all-wheel drive (AWD) system components (if applicable, though 1997 Galant was primarily FWD).

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link or trailing arm, depending on sub-model), wheel bearing replacement, shock absorber and spring replacement, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), ABS system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake pads, rotors, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System Low Voltage:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), wipers, horns, power windows, power door locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System High Voltage:

Ignition coils, spark plug wires, distributor (if applicable), ECU/ECM (Engine Control Unit/Module) diagnostics.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, refrigerant type and capacity, AC compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, heater core, climate control panel diagnostics.

Body And Trim:

Interior trim removal and installation, exterior trim, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting, subframe service.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid flushes, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, wiring diagram interpretation for fault finding.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Testing of sensors, actuators, and control modules using multimeters and diagnostic scan tools (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on specific regulations).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Detailed procedures for timing belt removal and installation, including correct timing marks alignment and tensioner adjustment for relevant engines.

Wheel Alignment:

Front and rear wheel alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe) and adjustment procedures.

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant evacuation and recharging, leak detection, component replacement, pressure testing.

Electrical Component Testing:

Resistance, voltage, and continuity testing for various electrical components like alternators, starters, solenoids, and sensors.

Special Tool Identification:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-job use.

Quality:

High-quality scans/digital reproduction ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format on CD).

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (digital format on CD).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

4G63 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC), 6A12 (2.0L V6), 6A13 (2.5L V6)

Engine Family:

SOHC/DOHC 4-cylinder, SOHC V6

Displacement Common:

1998cc (2.0L), 2498cc (2.5L)

Cylinder Arrangement:

Inline-4, V-6

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves (4-cyl), 24 valves (V6)

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc:

Approx. 135-145 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market/spec)

Torque 2.0L Sohc:

Approx. 130-140 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies by market/spec)

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approx. 160-170 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market/spec)

Torque 2.5L V6:

Approx. 155-165 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies by market/spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (or as specified in owner's manual)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II Sportronic in some markets)

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, selectable modes (e.g., Power/Economy on some trims).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF SP-II or equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 75W-90 or equivalent gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4700-4770 mm (185-187.8 in) depending on variant

Width:

Approx. 1740-1750 mm (68.5-68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1400-1420 mm (55.1-55.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)

Front Track:

Approx. 1480 mm (58.3 in)

Rear Track:

Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1350-1500 kg (2976-3307 lbs) depending on engine and trim

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Varies by model, typically around 1800-1900 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (for 1997 model year, but may vary slightly by specific test)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (for 1997 model year)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some trims.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available on this generation.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced impact safety structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speakers typically located in doors and rear deck.

Climate Control Type:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Early Tech:

Focus on core automotive functions; limited advanced connectivity features compared to modern vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (use platinum or iridium plugs as specified).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 60,000 miles (use platinum or iridium plugs as specified).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item for 4G63 engine).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) with filter, depending on engine.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature range recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use genuine Mitsubishi coolant or equivalent.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 liters (7.4-7.9 US quarts) depending on engine.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.

Timing Belt Failure:

Critical component; failure on 4G63 engines can cause catastrophic engine damage due to interference design. Adherence to replacement schedule is paramount.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Some models may experience rough shifting or solenoid issues, especially with higher mileage and deferred maintenance.

Suspension Wear:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to clunking noises and affect alignment.

Heater Core Leaks:

Can develop leaks, leading to coolant loss and interior fogging.

Power Window Motors:

Occasional failure of power window regulator motors.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi History:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for innovation and robust engineering.

Galant History:

The Galant has a long lineage dating back to the 1960s, evolving through numerous generations. The 1997 model represents the eighth generation (E80/E90 series), which debuted in 1992/1993 and received a facelift in 1996.

Eighth Gen Updates:

The 1997 model year falls within the facelifted version of the eighth generation, featuring updated styling (grille, headlights, taillights), interior enhancements, and powertrain refinements.

Production Location:

Primarily Japan, with some assembly in other global locations.

Production Years Eighth Gen:

1992-1996 (pre-facelift), 1997-2003 (facelifted, some markets)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Import Car Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 model are less documented, the Galant platform generally received positive reviews for its styling and driving dynamics during its era.

Ideals Consumer Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction ratings would have varied by year and specific powertrain; the 4G63 engine is generally regarded as robust if properly maintained.