Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Galant in this era was positioned as a mid-size family sedan, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus, often emphasizing value and a good feature set for its price point.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina.
Distinctive Features:
Available with advanced technologies for its time, such as multi-link suspension for superior ride and handling, and optional all-wheel drive (AWD) on certain performance variants (e.g., GT-i/VR-4).
Covered Regions:
Global (specific regional variations may exist in underlying factory data, but the manual aims for comprehensive coverage)
Total Pages:
Extensive (Exact page count varies by printing or digital version, but factory manuals of this era are typically several hundred pages)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), Printable
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling system, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveline components (axles, driveshafts)
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut, multi-link), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, body electrical components (wipers, horn, power windows)
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk, chassis components
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation for applicable systems
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures for major systems (engine, transmission), body panel repair
Adjustment:
Valve clearance adjustment, brake adjustment, clutch adjustment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting)
Engine Options:
1.8L SOHC (4G37), 2.0L DOHC (4G63 - naturally aspirated and turbocharged), 2.4L SOHC (4G64).
Horsepower Torque Range:
Approx. 98 hp (1.8L) to 195 hp (2.0L Turbocharged VR-4). Torque figures also vary significantly by engine.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for most models.
Cylinders Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder.
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft).
Emission System:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission.
All Wheel Drive:
Available on performance models (e.g., GT-i, VR-4), often with viscous coupling center differential.
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (92.5 inches).
Length:
Approx. 4580 mm (180.3 inches).
Width:
Approx. 1715 mm (67.5 inches).
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 inches).
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1200 kg - 1500 kg (2645 lbs - 3307 lbs) depending on configuration.
Crash Test Data:
Limited publicly available official crash test data for this specific generation from agencies like NHTSA or IIHS. Owners should consult contemporary reviews or recall notices for insights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners (front).
Airbags:
Driver airbag was an option or standard on later models within this range.
Child Safety:
LATCH anchor points were not standard in this era; child seat installation relied on seat belt systems.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with equalizer and multiple speakers. CD players were available as options on higher trims later in the generation.
Cruise Control:
Standard on many models or available as an option.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common features, especially on higher trim levels.
Connectivity Options:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were available from the factory. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G6x engines; usually recommended at 60,000 miles or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (green color, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Wheel bearings, CV joints, engine mounts, exhaust system components, suspension bushings, and aging electrical connectors.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Turbocharger issues on VR-4 models if not maintained properly. Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal are common with age.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for engineering prowess, particularly in areas like turbocharging and four-wheel-drive systems, often leveraged in rally racing.
Generation History:
The E3_A generation Galant was a significant redesign from its predecessor, introducing a sleeker, more aerodynamic design and advanced chassis technology. It continued Mitsubishi's trend of offering sport-oriented variants alongside mainstream models.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Years Global:
1987-1993 (for the E3_A generation).
Automotive Journal Reviews:
Received positive reviews from automotive journalists for its handling, available technology, and sporty variants, particularly the AWD turbocharged models. Often praised for its value proposition.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, with common issues typical for vehicles of this age and technology level.
