1992 Mitsubishi Galant

Introduction

The 1992 Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize sedan that was available with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 120 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine is a 2.5-liter V6 that produces 164 horsepower and 183 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Galant received praise for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong V6 engine. However, it was also criticized for its lack of performance from the 4-cylinder engine, poor fuel economy, and outdated interior.

Engine

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket causing coolant and oil to mix, leading to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace head gasket, machine cylinder head if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gaskets Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking gaskets causing vacuum leaks, rough idling, and decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-Liter V6

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the timing belt can lead to catastrophic engine damage (bent valves, broken pistons).
  • Solution: Replace timing belt, water pump, and tensioner every 60,000 miles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Head Warping
  • Description/Symptoms: Warped cylinder head causing coolant and oil leaks, overheating, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Machine or replace cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn synchronizers leading to difficulty shifting gears, especially into 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers and any damaged gears.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping torque converter clutch causing delayed engagement, shuddering, and overheating of transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts causing clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking or worn shock absorbers leading to poor ride quality, instability, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning alternator leading to insufficient charging of the battery, dimming lights, and eventual electrical system failure.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn starter motor contacts or solenoid leading to difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on various undercarriage components, including exhaust system, suspension parts, and body panels.
  • Solution: Regular rust prevention measures, such as applying undercoating and cleaning the undercarriage with soap and water.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperable power windows due to faulty switches or motors.
  • Solution: Replace faulty switches or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control or failure of the heating or air conditioning system.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical issues or replace faulty components in the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Mitsubishi Galant is a reliable and affordable sedan, but it does have some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe and expensive issues include head gasket failure, timing belt failure, and transmission problems. However, many of these issues can be prevented with proper maintenance and repair. Overall, the Galant is a good choice for those looking for a comfortable and spacious sedan with a strong V6 engine.