The Mitsubishi Galant of the early 1990s was positioned as a stylish and capable mid-size sedan, often targeting buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and reliability, particularly with the introduction of the high-performance VR-4 variant.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima, Mazda MX-6, and Ford Taurus. The Galant often distinguished itself with its sharp styling and, in the case of the VR-4, advanced all-wheel-drive and turbocharged powertrain.
Key Features
Features:
Distinctive aerodynamic styling, optional turbocharged performance (VR-4 model), available all-wheel drive (VR-4), refined interior for its class, good handling characteristics.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All models, all engines, all trim levels
Page Count
Pages:
Extensive (Specific number not provided, typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Fuel injection system (MPI/GDI depending on specific variant), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, throttle body, emissions control systems (EVAP)
Engine Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), electronic control unit (ECU) related ignition diagnostics
Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, transmission control unit (TCU) diagnostics, transmission fluid specifications and change procedures
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, CV joints, driveshafts, differential (front/rear if applicable), transfer case (if AWD)
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, steering wheel, steering angle sensor
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on trim), brake hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake pads, brake fluid specifications, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ignition switch, power windows, power locks
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, dashboard, climate control system (HVAC), heater core, A/C system servicing
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, battery maintenance
Repair Engine:
Complete engine rebuild, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve seal replacement, head gasket replacement
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended, 91 Octane for VR-4)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 17.2 gallons (65 Liters)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
AWD System:
Optional on VR-4 model (Advanced All-Wheel Drive System with Active Center Differential - ACD)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
DIAQueen ATF-SPII or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 Liters)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approx. 2.4 quarts (2.3 Liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 183.1 inches (4650 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.5 inches (1385 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 58.7 inches (1490 mm)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 2900 lbs (1315 kg)
Curb Weight Max Vr4:
Approx. 3400 lbs (1540 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4200 lbs (1905 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.0 cubic feet (368 Liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated or not tested for this model year
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not rated or not tested for this model year
Active Features
ABS:
Available on higher trim levels and VR-4 model
Traction Control:
Not available
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most trims, passenger airbag optional or standard on later models/trims
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital or analog climate controls.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trim levels.
Four Wheel Steering:
Optional on certain VR-4 models, providing enhanced maneuverability.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic power accessories; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (Copper plugs), 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Platinum plugs)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first (CRITICAL for 4G63 engine)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 API SG or higher
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II ATF or equivalent
Known Issues
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical failure if the timing belt breaks, causing catastrophic engine damage. Regular replacement is paramount.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in areas with road salt. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and suspension components.
Automatic Transmission Slippage:
Can occur with age and high mileage if fluid and filter are not maintained.
Cv Joint Wear:
Common on front-wheel-drive vehicles; look for clicking noises during turns.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators can become slow or fail due to worn gears.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its engineering prowess, particularly in turbocharged engines and four-wheel-drive systems, often stemming from its rally racing heritage.
Model Evolution
Generation Context:
The 1991 Galant is part of the fifth generation (E30 series), which ran from 1987 to 1993. This generation saw a significant styling update and the introduction of the groundbreaking Galant VR-4.
Vr4 Introduction:
The high-performance VR-4 model, introduced in 1988 globally (1989 for North America), featured the 4G63T turbocharged engine, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and four-wheel steering (4WS) on some versions, making it a technological marvel of its time and a precursor to the Lancer Evolution.
Production
Production Years:
1987-1993 (E30 Series)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vr4 Recognition:
The Galant VR-4 was highly regarded by automotive journalists for its performance and technological advancements, often cited as a benchmark for sports sedans.