Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed, manufacturer-level repair information often unavailable in generic repair guides, essential for complex diagnostics and repairs unique to Mitsubishi.
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63, 4G63T, 6G72 V6), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Drive Shafts, Differentials, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS included), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Audio System, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules
Body:
Body & Frame, Exterior Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks & Top-offs
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-I/Early OBD-II), Diagnostic Procedures for all Major Systems
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Component Location Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Engine Codes:
4G63, 4G63T (Turbocharged), 6G72 (3.0L V6)
Displacement 2.4L:
2351 cc
Displacement 2.0L Turbo:
1997 cc
Displacement 3.0L V6:
2972 cc
Horsepower:
Approx. 155 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 158 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower:
Approx. 218 hp @ 6000 rpm (VR-4)
Torque:
Approx. 203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (VR-4)
Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 185 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI/GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (F5M33 or W5MG1 for AWD models)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (V4A51)
All Wheel Drive:
Available (Full-time AWD on VR-4 models with Active-ECS)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check specific model/transmission for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP II M or equivalent (Check specific model for exact spec)
NHTSA Side Impact:
N/A (FMVSS standards applied)
IIHS Crash Tests:
Not extensively tested by IIHS for this generation. Focus on manufacturer-specified safety structures.
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, standard on VR-4.
All Wheel Steering:
Available on VR-4 (Active Four Wheel Steering - AWS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags standard on most models by 1995/1996.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette with optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Display:
Analog gauges, basic climate control displays.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim.
OBD Standard:
Primarily OBD-I, with some late models potentially transitioning to early OBD-II systems. Manual provides specific diagnostic port information.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (Check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature).
Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with deionized water).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change for 4-cylinder engines.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on 4G63/4G63T), oil leaks, timing belt wear (critical for interference engines).
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission solenoid failures, clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, CV joint wear, strut/shock absorber degradation.
Electrical Issues:
Corroded ground points, failing power window motors, intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a long history in engineering and innovation, particularly in drivetrain technology.
Galant History:
The E50/E60/E70/E80 generation represented a significant shift towards a more aerodynamic and sporty design, building on the success of its predecessors. Introduced in late 1992 for the 1993 model year.
Key Trims:
DE, ES, LS, GS, GSX (AWD), VR-4 (Turbocharged AWD)
Production Years:
1993-1998 (E50/E60/E70/E80 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, United States (under Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth brands - e.g., Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The VR-4 model was often praised for its performance and AWD system, although it didn't consistently make '10 Best' lists, it was a strong contender in its segment.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
The Galant was a contender for Motor Trend Car of the Year in its debut year for the generation.
Reliability Perception:
Generally good, with common issues being age-related wear rather than inherent design flaws for many components, though specific powertrain elements (e.g., head gaskets) require attention.