Market Segment:
Mid-size performance sedan, often considered a 'homologation special' due to its rally heritage and advanced technology for its era.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Legacy RS, Nissan Skyline GTS-t, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth (in some markets)
Performance Attributes:
All-wheel drive (AWD), turbocharged engine, advanced suspension geometry, aerodynamic enhancements.
Distinguishing Features:
Often featured aggressive styling, Recaro seats, and performance-oriented interiors. The 'Eterna' variant was a badge-engineered version primarily for the Japanese market, sharing core mechanicals.
Covered Years:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Specific Models Covered:
Mitsubishi Galant VR4, Mitsubishi Eterna VR4
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emission control systems, engine management (ECU)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, Automatic transmission, Transfer case, Driveshafts, Axles
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes (ABS optional), Rear disc brakes (ABS optional), Parking brake, Brake fluid
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear suspension (Multi-link), Power steering system, Steering column
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Charging system (alternator), Starting system, Lighting system, Horn, Wiper/washer system, Power windows, Power mirrors, Central locking, Audio system, Instrument cluster, Fuses and relays, Engine Control Unit (ECU), ABS control unit
Body Chassis:
Body construction, Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior trim, Glass, Chassis components
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, Heating, Ventilation
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and changes, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement, Brake pad/rotor replacement, Tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, Body panel repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, Tolerances, Clearances, Wiring diagrams, Vacuum diagrams
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Engine Type:
4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged, intercooled gasoline engine
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 200-220 PS (147-162 kW) depending on market and specific tune
Torque:
Approx. 260-290 Nm (192-214 lb-ft) depending on market and specific tune
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharging and Intercooler
ECU Type:
Proprietary Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostics capabilities.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common on VR4 models)
Drivetrain:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential.
Transfer Case:
Center differential with viscous coupling for torque distribution.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Likely GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Consult manual for specific fill.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi ATF SP-II or equivalent. Consult manual for specific fill.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Likely GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Consult manual for specific fill.
Length:
Approx. 4580 mm (180.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1715 mm (67.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult specific vehicle VIN for exact GVWR.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official NHTSA/Euro NCAP data available for this specific generation and trim level. Era-specific safety standards applied.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often an option or standard on higher trims.
AWD Traction:
All-wheel-drive system inherently provides enhanced traction and stability.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front and rear occupants.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag typically standard on later models; passenger airbag less common for this era.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell construction.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo radio and cassette player. CD players were rare for this generation.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, depending on trim level.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) provided enhanced braking control.
AWD System:
Advanced all-wheel-drive system with viscous coupling for optimal traction and handling.
Diagnostics Port:
OBD-I diagnostic port, typically located under the dash. Manual will detail diagnostic procedures and trouble codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for the 4G63 engine. Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and part numbers.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard or platinum).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher. Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 5W-30. Consult manual for climate-specific recommendations.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type (e.g., Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Always use fresh, sealed fluid.
Turbocharger:
Potential for turbo seal leaks or bearing failure if oil changes are neglected. Overheating can also shorten turbo life.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
The timing belt tensioner can fail, leading to belt slippage and potential interference engine damage. Regular inspection and timely replacement are critical.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can lead to vague handling and noise. Replacement is a common maintenance item.
Electronics:
Age-related electrical gremlins can occur, such as faulty sensors, window regulators, or central locking issues. Wiring loom degradation is also a possibility.
Brand Origins:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to 1917.
Galant Lineage:
The Galant nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1969, evolving through several generations, with the VR4 variant representing the pinnacle of performance and technology in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Eterna Variant:
The Eterna was a related model, often a more luxurious variant of the Galant platform, with the Eterna VR4 specifically incorporating the high-performance drivetrain.
Production Period:
The E30A chassis Galant/Eterna VR4 was produced from approximately 1987 to 1992, with the specified manual covering the latter part of this production run.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan.
Wrc Homologation:
The 4G63-powered AWD platform was famously developed for Group A rallying and competed successfully in the World Rally Championship (WRC), contributing to the VR4's performance credentials.
