1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT
Introduction:
The 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT is a high-performance sports car that was available with two engine options: a 3.0L V6 and a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6. The 3.0L V6 produced 222 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, while the twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 produced 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
People who like the 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT often praise its sleek design, powerful engines, and handling capabilities. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle.
Engine
3.0L V6
- Blown head gasket: Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Timing belt failure: Symptoms include a sudden loss of power and a loud noise from the engine. The solution is to replace the timing belt. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
- Intake manifold gasket leak: Symptoms include a rough idle, poor acceleration, and increased emissions. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500
Twin-Turbocharged 3.0L V6
- Turbocharger failure: Symptoms include a loss of power, increased oil consumption, and a whistling or grinding noise from the turbocharger. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Intercooler failure: Symptoms include a loss of power and increased engine temperatures. The solution is to replace the intercooler. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
- Wastegate failure: Symptoms include a loss of power, increased boost pressure, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the wastegate. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Grinding gears: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, a grinding noise, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the gears or the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Clutch failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, a slipping clutch, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Transmission slipping: Symptoms include a lack of power, a slipping transmission, and a CEL. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Overheating: Symptoms include a CEL, a hot transmission, and a transmission that slips or fails. The solution is to replace the transmission or the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
Suspension
- Worn struts or shocks: Symptoms include a rough ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll. The solution is to replace the struts or shocks. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
- Broken sway bar links: Symptoms include a clunking noise when going over bumps and poor handling. The solution is to replace the sway bar links. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400
- Leaking power steering: Symptoms include a low power steering fluid level, a whining noise from the power steering pump, and a heavy steering wheel. The solution is to replace the power steering pump or the power steering lines. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
Electrical
- Alternator failure: Symptoms include a dead battery, a flickering dashboard, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
- Battery failure: Symptoms include a dead battery, a slow crank, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200
- Starter failure: Symptoms include a clicking noise when starting the vehicle and a no-start condition. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
Exterior
- Cracked headlights: Symptoms include broken or cracked headlights. The solution is to replace the headlights. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500
- Faded tail lights: Symptoms include dim or faded tail lights. The solution is to replace the tail lights. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200
Interior
- Faulty climate control system: Symptoms include a lack of heat or air conditioning, a buzzing noise from the blower motor, and a CEL. The solution is to replace the climate control module or the blower motor. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
- Electrical problems: Symptoms include flickering lights, inoperable gauges, and a CEL. The solution is to repair or replace faulty electrical components. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500
Summary
The 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT is a high-performance vehicle that is known for its sleek design and powerful engines. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle, including engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and interior problems. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the specific issue. Some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others are more serious and can be costly to repair. If you are considering purchasing a 1997 Mitsubishi 3000GT, it is important to be aware of the potential issues that you may encounter.