Positioning:
The 1996 Mitsubishi Galant was a mid-size sedan known for its value, sporty handling (especially in V6 models), and robust engineering. It competed with models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus.
Advantages:
Offered a good balance of performance, comfort, and reliability. The available V6 engine provided a distinct advantage in power over many four-cylinder competitors. Its styling was considered modern for its era.
Features:
Available with 2.4L 4-cylinder (4G64) or 3.0L V6 (6A13) engines. Front-wheel drive standard, with optional all-wheel drive on some performance variants (e.g., GSX). Available with manual or automatic transmissions. Sporty chassis tuning contributed to good handling.
Markets Covered:
North America, Europe, Japan, and other global markets
Total Pages:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Engine:
Engine Mechanical (4G63, 4G64, 6A13), Engine Control Systems (ECU, EFI, Ignition), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (W5M33, KM224), Automatic Transmission (F4A23, F4A33), Clutch System, Drivetrain Components (CVT optional in some markets)
Brakes:
Hydraulic Brake System, ABS System, Parking Brake
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Power Steering System, Steering Column
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Audio System, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Climate Control System, Instrument Cluster
Body:
Body Exterior (panels, doors, hood, trunk), Body Interior (trim, seats, dashboard), Glass, Wiper/Washer System
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heating System, Ventilation System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Timing Procedures, Diagnostic Specifications, Component Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repair.
Engine Options:
4G64 2.4L SOHC I4, 6A13 3.0L SOHC V6
4G64 Horsepower:
Approx. 135-143 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on exact configuration)
4G64 Torque:
Approx. 145-150 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm
6A13 Horsepower:
Approx. 175-180 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm
6A13 Torque:
Approx. 195-200 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended, 91+ for optimal performance)
Engine Codes:
4G64 (2.4L Inline-4), 6A13 (3.0L V6)
Timing Belt:
Timing Belt Driven (4G64, 6A13)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (STD on some trims), 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Optional on most trims, standard on some)
All Wheel Drive:
Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Transfer Clutch (ATC) available on certain performance models (e.g., GSX)
Automatic Features:
Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) with Sport/Normal modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for exact specification)
Length:
Approx. 185.2 inches (4704 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (1361-1542 kg), varies by engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.0 cubic feet (varies slightly by model)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not specifically rated for 1996 in all categories, but generally performed adequately for its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced impact safety system (RISE) body construction for improved crashworthiness.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (as previously mentioned).
Early Features:
Standard automotive electronics of the mid-90s; no advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3-4 months (typical for the era, refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs (if equipped)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical for these engines to prevent catastrophic damage)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate and engine type, refer to manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Based Antifreeze (Blue or Green color, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual)
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Exhaust manifold cracks can occur due to heat cycles, especially on the 4G63 and 4G64 engines.
O2 Sensor Failure:
Oxygen sensors can fail, leading to poor fuel economy and increased emissions.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots are a common issue, leading to joint damage if not addressed.
Idler Pulley Bearing:
Idler pulley bearing noise on the 4G64 engine can be indicative of impending failure.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its engineering prowess, particularly in turbocharged engines and 4WD systems (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
Galant Generations:
The 1996 model represents the eighth generation of the Mitsubishi Galant, which debuted for the 1994 model year. This generation saw a significant redesign with more aerodynamic styling and improved chassis dynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly occurring in other global locations.
Production Years:
Eighth Generation: 1994-1998