Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan, positioned as a comfortable and stylish family car with available performance options.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu.
Distinctive Features:
Unique styling (especially compared to some competitors), comfortable ride, available powerful V6 engines, good value proposition.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures for 4-cylinder and V6 engines, including timing belt replacement, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft service.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, ignition system troubleshooting, emissions control systems, engine tuning, performance specifications.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair of manual transmissions, clutch system overhaul, gearshift mechanism.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission diagnosis and repair, torque converter service, transmission fluid specifications and replacement, shift control systems.
Braking System:
Disc brake service (front and rear), caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, rotor specifications, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnostics.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering rack service, power steering system diagnosis, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, starter and alternator service, battery specifications, fuse and relay identification, lighting systems, horn, wipers.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant charging, heater core replacement, climate control unit diagnostics.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, door panel removal, bumper replacement, glass installation, exterior trim.
Body Interior:
Seat removal and installation, dashboard disassembly, interior trim panel replacement, airbag system safety precautions.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting steps.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Engine Options:
2.4L 4-cylinder (4G64) and 3.0L V6 (6G72).
4G64 Horsepower:
Approximately 145-150 hp (depending on specific year/market).
4G64 Torque:
Approximately 150-155 lb-ft (depending on specific year/market).
6G72 Horsepower:
Approximately 195-205 hp (depending on specific year/market).
6G72 Torque:
Approximately 200-215 lb-ft (depending on specific year/market).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
ECU Type:
Mitsubishi's proprietary Engine Control Unit (ECU), with diagnostic capabilities via OBD-II port.
Transmission Options:
Available with 5-speed manual transmission (primarily with 4-cylinder engines) and 4-speed automatic transmission (with both 4-cylinder and V6 engines).
Transmission Type V6:
4-speed automatic transmission (4AT) typically paired with the 3.0L V6.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, often with modes like 'Power' and 'Sport' for altered shift points.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Typically Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-SP II M or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (check specific manual for confirmation).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 105.1 inches (2670 mm).
Length:
Approximately 188.8 inches (4795 mm).
Width:
Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm).
Height:
Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm).
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 3100 lbs to 3400 lbs (1400 kg to 1540 kg) depending on engine and trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, consult specific VIN.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for 2001-2003 models, varies by specific test results and year).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 2001-2003 models, varies by specific test results and year).
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Traction Control:
Optional, particularly on V6 models.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard. Side airbags were optional on higher trims or unavailable.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles or 6 months with synthetic oil and filter (refer to owner's manual for precise intervals).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial for 4G64 engines, typically recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years. V6 engines use a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free unless issues arise.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles for standard spark plugs, or up to 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (if fitted).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-6A certified 5W-30 synthetic or conventional motor oil (check specific viscosity recommendations for climate).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (typically a 50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on the 4G64 engine), oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, timing belt tensioner noise/failure (if not replaced at intervals).
Common Transmission Issues:
Erratic shifting in automatic transmissions, worn torque converter clutch, manual transmission clutch wear.
Common Suspension Steering Issues:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends, power steering pump leaks, strut mount noise.
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty power window regulators, intermittent power locks, dashboard warning light illumination due to sensor issues (e.g., ABS, SRS), alternator failure.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has a long history dating back to 1917, known for innovation and reliability.
Galant Evolution:
The Galant has a long history with many generations, evolving from a compact car to a mid-size sedan. The 8th generation (1998-2003) saw a significant redesign, adopting a more aerodynamic and contemporary styling, and sharing its platform with Chrysler products for North American markets.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly for North American markets potentially occurring in North America (e.g., Illinois, USA, for certain periods).
Safety Awards:
Received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its time, though specific awards may vary by year and testing methodology.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings varied over the Galant's lifespan, with some years showing average or below-average reliability in specific areas, particularly in its later years of this generation. The manual would provide vital information for owners to maintain and repair these vehicles.
