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Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Mid-size sedan
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Target Audience:
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Families, professionals seeking a reliable and stylish sedan.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina.
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Galant Advantage:
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Often noted for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and value proposition. Mitsubishi's focus on engineering contributed to reliable powertrains.
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Key Features
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Styling:
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Sleek, aerodynamic design for its era. Often available with sporty trim levels.
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Powertrain Options:
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Reliable 4-cylinder and V6 engine options catering to different performance and economy needs.
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Interior Comfort:
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Spacious cabin with comfortable seating, often well-appointed for the segment.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine mechanical (including assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair), fuel system (injection, carburetor variations if applicable), exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
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Drivetrain:
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Manual and automatic transmission (gearbox, clutch, transfer case if applicable), drive shafts, axles, differential.
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Chassis:
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Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, rack and pinion), braking system (front/rear discs, drum variations, ABS components if equipped), wheels, tires.
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Electrical:
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Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, ignition system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system wiring, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
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Body:
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Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, latches, glass replacement, body repair procedures, paint codes (potentially), climate control system (HVAC).
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable), electrical circuit analysis.
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Repair:
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Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, full engine/transmission rebuilds, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
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Specifications:
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Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance measurements, timing specifications, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component identification.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive; covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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Crash Test Performance:
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Information from this era is less standardized than modern NCAP tests. Refer to NHTSA or IIHS archives if available, but expect basic safety structures.
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Active Features
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Braking System:
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Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes depending on trim. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or later models.
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Steering Type:
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Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
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Passive Features
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Airbags:
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Driver-side airbag likely standard on most later models within this range. Passenger airbag availability may vary by trim and market.
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Seatbelts:
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Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts. Lap belts for the center rear position.
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Body Structure:
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Designed with crumple zones for impact absorption.
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Technology Features
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Infotainment
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Audio System:
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Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with multiple speakers. Radio controls typically mounted in the dash center.
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Display Technology:
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Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for system status.
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Driver Assistance
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Cruise Control:
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Available as an option on many trims, typically operated via steering column stalk or dashboard buttons.
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Climate Control:
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Manual or semi-automatic climate control with A/C, heater, and fan speed adjustments. Recirculation mode.
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Connectivity
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Auxiliary Input:
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Not present. Aftermarket solutions (cassette adapters, FM transmitters, or head unit replacements) are required for modern audio sources.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (whichever comes first). Consult manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations.
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Critical for 4G63 engines. Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type:
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API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating based on climate).
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Green coolant typical.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual).
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Power Steering Fluid:
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Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid (check manual).
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Known Issues
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Engine 4G63:
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While generally robust, can experience head gasket issues if overheated. Timing belt maintenance is paramount. Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket can occur with age.
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Transmission Automatic:
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Early automatic transmissions can develop solenoid issues or wear in clutch packs, leading to harsh shifting or slipping. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
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Suspension:
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Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are common with age and mileage, affecting handling and alignment.
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Electrical:
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Corrosion in connectors, failing power window motors, and intermittent dashboard warning lights can occur due to age and environmental exposure.
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Rust:
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In rust-belt regions, check for corrosion on frame rails, wheel wells, and rocker panels.
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