🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Galant

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E3_A (specific generation varies slightly)

Engine Codes:

4G63 (2.0L DOHC MPI), 4G93 (1.8L SOHC MPI), 6A12 (2.5L V6 DOHC MPI)

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The 1997 Mitsubishi Galant was a mid-size sedan known for its stylish design (especially the '8th Generation' E3_A platform), comfortable ride, and in higher trims, sporty performance, particularly with the V6 engine. It competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima.

Competitive Strengths:

Styling, available V6 engine, generally reliable mechanicals, good value proposition compared to some competitors.

Key Features Of 1997 Model:

Available with 1.8L, 2.0L, and 2.5L V6 engines. Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) on some models. Available with manual or automatic transmissions. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and airbags were common safety features.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic/Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Emissions Control, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (or digital reprint of original factory document)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair of engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, cylinder head, block, etc.)

Engine Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, EVAP system, EGR system, catalytic converter, emissions diagnosis

Engine Lubrication And Cooling:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, water pump, radiator, thermostat, coolant passages, cooling fan operation

Transmission Automatic:

Operation, disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair of automatic transmission components (torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, planetary gears)

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair of manual transmission components (clutch, gears, synchronizers, shift forks)

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential, transaxle repair

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, steering wheel removal/installation

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), brake fluid, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake

Electrical System Power And Ground:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, grounding points, power distribution

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, bulb specifications

Electrical System Instruments And Gauges:

Instrument cluster, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights

Electrical System Audio And Accessories:

Radio, speakers, power windows, power locks, mirrors, sunroof, wipers, horn

HVAC System:

Air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heater core, blower motor, climate controls

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis structural components

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed color-coded wiring schematics for all electrical systems

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBDI/OBDII if applicable to the specific engine/region)

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation

Adjustment Procedures:

Idle speed adjustment, timing adjustment (if applicable), brake adjustment, clutch adjustment

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Typically a high-resolution PDF, allowing for clear printing of all diagrams and text. May include searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear reproduction of diagrams, schematics, and text. Original factory manuals are professionally printed.

Binding Type:

Original factory manuals are typically bound with robust stitching or spiral binding for durability in a workshop environment. Digital versions are not applicable.

Paper Type:

Original factory manuals use durable, often coated paper to withstand grease and handling in a professional setting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4G63 2.0L Inline-4 DOHC MPI; 4G93 1.8L Inline-4 SOHC MPI; 6A12 2.5L V6 DOHC MPI

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approximately 130-140 hp (varies by market and specific tune)

Torque 2.0L:

Approximately 125-130 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tune)

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approximately 160-170 hp (varies by market and specific tune)

Torque 2.5L V6:

Approximately 155-160 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (may vary, consult owner's manual)

Engine Layout:

Inline-4 or V6

Valvetrain:

SOHC (1.8L) or DOHC (2.0L, 2.5L V6) with timing belt or chain (check specific engine variant)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (on select trims/engines)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, often with 'Sport' or 'Economy' modes on higher trims.

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard; All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on certain models/trims (often with the V6 engine).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 185.2 inches (4704 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Height:

Approximately 54.9 inches (1395 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,000 - 3,300 lbs (1360 - 1497 kg), depending on engine and equipment

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 14-15 cubic feet (varies)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-star (driver) / 4-star (passenger) (typical for the era, may vary slightly)

ABS:

Standard or optional depending on trim level. Typically 4-wheel disc brakes on higher trims, front discs/rear drums on base models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags were standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear 3-point seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD player. Typically 4 or 6 speakers.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by 1997 standards. Primarily focused on audio system connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for 4G63 and 4G93 engines. Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Check manual for specific intervals and fluid type.

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH. Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most climates. (Consult manual for specific engine/temperature ranges).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change, depending on engine.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Consult manual.

Common Issues:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), occasional transmission issues (especially on higher mileage automatics), front suspension wear (bushings, struts), power window motor failures, AC system leaks.

Diagnostic Challenges:

Older electrical systems can sometimes be temperamental; wiring diagrams are crucial for accurate diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors, a division of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for innovation and robust engineering.

Galant Evolution 1997:

The 1997 model year is part of the eighth generation (1994-1998 for most markets) of the Galant, which adopted a more rounded and aerodynamic styling compared to previous generations. This generation saw the introduction of the 2.5L V6 engine and AWD on select models, enhancing its sporty appeal.

Production Period:

Eighth generation: 1994-1998. The 1997 model represents a refinement within this generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan; also assembled in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year are less documented, Mitsubishi Galant models from this era were often praised for their styling and value. The 8th generation was generally well-received in automotive reviews for its blend of comfort and available performance.