1997 Mitsubishi Diamante

Introduction:

The 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante is a midsize sedan that was offered with three engine options and two transmission options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 137 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. The mid-level engine is a 2.5-liter V6 that produces 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line engine is a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 210 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Diamante is praised for its spacious and comfortable interior, its responsive handling, and its powerful engines. However, it is criticized for its poor fuel economy and its lack of modern features.

Engine

2.0-liter Four-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, causing overheating or engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can snap, causing catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and water pump according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may not shift properly, causing slipping or harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the failed shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount can wear out, causing noise and vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Panel Delamination:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof panel can delaminate, allowing water to leak into the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially on models exposed to excessive heat.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switch can fail to operate the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante has several potential issues, including timing belt failure, shift solenoid failure, and strut mount failure. The severity of these issues can range from minor to catastrophic, and the cost to fix them can be significant. However, the Diamante also has many positive qualities, such as its spacious interior, responsive handling, and powerful engines. Overall, it is a vehicle that should be considered with caution, but it can be a good value for the money if the potential issues are addressed.