Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina
Design Philosophy:
The 1997 Galant, part of the eighth generation, offered a distinct styling with aerodynamic lines and a comfortable interior, aiming for a blend of performance and practicality.
Value Proposition:
Known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and available V6 engine, the Galant was a strong contender in its segment, offering good value for money.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine variants including timing belt replacement, valve adjustments, and piston ring installation.
Engine Performance:
Information on engine tuning, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), emission control systems, and fuel injection system calibration.
Transmission Manual:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for the 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch replacement and gearbox component replacement.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for the 4-speed automatic transmission, including torque converter diagnostics and valve body servicing.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment procedures, including struts, shocks, control arms, and bushings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, service, and repair, including disc brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing, caliper overhaul, and ABS system diagnostics.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, including pump, rack and pinion, and steering column servicing.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical components, lighting systems, charging system diagnostics, starter motor and alternator repair.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant charging, compressor repair, heater core replacement, and climate control diagnostics.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, dent removal, door and latch mechanism servicing, and rust prevention techniques.
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, trim panel replacement, and carpet servicing.
Maintenance:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, and spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts to identify and resolve common mechanical and electrical issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Comprehensive instructions for component replacement, system overhaul, and repair of various parts and assemblies.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading OBD-II codes, and performing electrical circuit testing.
Depth:
Extremely comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and tolerances.
Transmission Type 1:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type 2:
4-speed Automatic (INVECS-II)
Automatic Features:
Sportronic mode (allows manual shifting), Winter mode.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SPII or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated (vehicle predates standardized ratings)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Not rated (vehicle predates standardized ratings)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (rear outboard seating positions)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on select trims
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on select models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first. Critical for 4G63 engine.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron II/III ATF.
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration.
Automatic Transmission Shifting:
Some models may experience hesitant shifting or delayed engagement.
Suspension Components:
Bushings and ball joints can wear, causing noise and alignment issues.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
The 4G63 engine is prone to exhaust manifold cracking.
Power Window Motors:
Can fail over time.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a division of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for innovation and durability.
Galant Generations:
The 1997 model represents the eighth generation of the Mitsubishi Galant, introduced in 1993, with a significant redesign focusing on aerodynamics and improved comfort.
Production Location:
Japan (various Mitsubishi plants)
Production Years:
1993-1998 (Eighth Generation)