Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle Distinguishing Features:
Sporty styling for its era, available AWD (on some trims), comfortable ride, generally reliable powertrain
Diy Repair Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money and ensuring quality workmanship.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (2.0L SOHC, 2.4L DOHC MIVEC), engine management (EFI), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, emission controls
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed INVECS-II), clutch, drive shafts, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system (power assisted rack and pinion), brakes (front disc, rear disc/drum), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, power windows, power locks, audio system, climate control electronics
Body Systems:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) components and operation
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks
Repair Procedures:
Engine component overhaul (cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission repair and rebuild, brake system service (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms), steering system repair, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause analysis, electrical circuit troubleshooting, common operational faults and resolutions
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics including OBD-II system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, and specific diagnostic procedures
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and assembly procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC 16V Inline-4)
Engine Displacement 1:
1997 cc (122 cu. in.)
Engine Horsepower 1:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Torque 1:
137 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code 2:
4G64 (2.4L DOHC 16V MIVEC Inline-4)
Engine Displacement 2:
2351 cc (143 cu. in.)
Engine Horsepower 2:
143 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx. for non-MIVEC), 150 hp @ 5250 rpm (approx. for MIVEC)
Engine Torque 2:
157 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx. for non-MIVEC), 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx. for MIVEC)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, PCV system
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II with Sportronic mode)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Adaptive shift control (INVECS-II), manual shifting mode (Sportronic)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on certain trims (e.g., LS AWD)
NHTSA Front Driver Side:
Good (1999 model year assessment)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side:
Good (1999 model year assessment)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on this model year, but rear seat belts can be used for child seat installation
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type and severe service conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - platinum or iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 2.0L (4G63) and 2.4L (4G64) engines. Recommended replacement interval is typically every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or III ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), potential for timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, occasional idle control valve issues.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission clutch wear (especially with high mileage or aggressive driving), potential for solenoid issues.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints and control arm bushings, strut mounts can degrade over time.
Electrical Issues:
Power window motor failures, dashboard warning light malfunctions, intermittent issues with central locking systems.
Other Issues:
Corrosion on brake lines and suspension components in rust-prone areas, A/C system performance degradation over time.
Mitsubishi Motors Origins:
Founded in 1870, Mitsubishi started as a shipping firm and diversified into various industries, including automobiles in the early 20th century.
Galant Lineage:
The Galant nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1969, evolving through multiple generations and platform changes.
Eighth Generation Introduction:
The eighth generation Galant (and its sibling, the Mitsubishi Eterna) was introduced in 1996 in Japan and later for global markets.
Platform Sharing:
This generation shared its platform with the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Plymouth Laser, and Eagle Talon, with some mechanical components common across these models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Mizushima Plant) and the United States (Normal, Illinois) for North American markets.