Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive students.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima.
Unique Selling Points:
Available V6 engine, optional AWD, distinctive styling, reliable powertrain options.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain their vehicle effectively, saving time and money on repairs, and extending vehicle lifespan.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (4G63, 4G64, 6A13), fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, exhaust system, engine electrical, cooling system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (F4A4x, F4A5x), Manual transmission (W4A4x).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) system (on applicable models), drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering system, brake system (ABS, front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, hinges, interior trim, seating systems.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, charging system, starter motor, body control modules (BCM).
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C system, heater core, blower motor, controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and ring replacement, timing belt/chain service, camshaft and valve train service.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter changes, transmission overhaul, torque converter replacement, clutch service (for manual transmissions).
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS component diagnosis and replacement.
Suspension And Steering:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm bushings, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering system service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, circuit diagnosis using wiring diagrams, sensor replacement.
Bodywork:
Door panel removal, window regulator repair, lock mechanism servicing, bumper replacement, exterior trim installation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Codes And Variants:
2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder (4G64), 3.0L SOHC V6 (6A13).
4G64 Horsepower:
Approx. 145 hp @ 5500 rpm
4G64 Torque:
Approx. 173 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
6A13 Horsepower:
Approx. 195-205 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and tune)
6A13 Torque:
Approx. 203-213 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (depending on market and tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection.
Timing Belt Interval 4G64:
Typically 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years, check manual for specific interval.
Timing Belt Replacement Recommended Parts:
Include water pump, tensioner pulley, idler pulley.
Type FWD:
4-speed Automatic (F4A41, F4A42, F4A51)
Type Manual:
5-speed Manual (W4A42)
Type AWD:
4-speed Automatic with Active-ECS AWD System
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
DIA Queen ATF SPIII or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for viscosity and specific type).
AWD System Name:
Active-ECS (Electronically Controlled Suspension) or Viscous Coupling AWD (depending on specific AWD model).
Length:
Approx. 186.0 inches (4724 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Curb Weight Start:
Approx. 3100 lbs (1406 kg)
Curb Weight End:
Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg) (for AWD/V6 models)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 4400 lbs (2000 kg).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (1997-2001 models, varying by year and specific test)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (1997-2001 models, varying by year and specific test)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some higher trims, often linked to AWD system.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard, uses seatbelt securing for child seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette tape player, and 6-speaker system on higher trims. Available premium audio options.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some models, though generally basic by modern standards.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Optional on most trims, standard on higher trims.
Aux Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions required for digital audio connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months with conventional oil, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for precise recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement 4G64:
Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for temperature range suitability).
Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with deionized water).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure leading to catastrophic engine damage if not replaced on schedule (especially the 4G64 engine).
Common Problem 2:
Power steering pump leaks or noise.
Common Problem 3:
Window regulator failures (power windows).
Common Problem 4:
Catalytic converter issues or failure.
Common Problem 5:
O2 sensor failures leading to check engine light.
Common Problem 6:
CV joint wear and tear, especially on AWD models.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for innovation and diverse product lines.
Galant Evolution:
The 8th generation Galant (1994-2003 globally, 1997-2001 in North America) represented a significant redesign, moving to a more aerodynamic and larger platform, with a focus on improved ride comfort and a sportier appearance than previous generations.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Japan and North America (Illinois, USA) for the North American market.
North American Launch Year:
1997 Model Year
