1998 Mitsubishi Diamante

Introduction The 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante is a midsize sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base model came with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produced 175 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque, while the ES model came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 210 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Diamante was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engines. However, it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and lack of features.

Engine

• 3.0-liter V6
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, engine overheating
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Timing belt tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or rattling noise from the engine, engine stalling
    • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• 3.5-liter V6
  • Camshaft sensor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace camshaft sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Knock sensor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace knock sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Oil leak from rear main seal
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the rear of the engine
    • Solution: Replace rear main seal
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Transmission fluid leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the transmission
    • Solution: Replace transmission fluid seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Front strut mounts fail
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when going over bumps, clunking sound, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear shock absorbers fail
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, bouncing, reduced ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming lights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Test and replace battery or find and fix electrical draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Ignition switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, key won’t turn
  • Solution: Replace ignition switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Headlight switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights won’t turn on, intermittent headlight operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Tail light assembly failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights or brake lights not working
  • Solution: Replace tail light assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Door lock actuator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks not working, difficulty locking or unlocking doors
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Dashboard clock failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clock not displaying the correct time, clock not working
  • Solution: Replace dashboard clock
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• HVAC blower motor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heater or air conditioner not blowing air, reduced airflow
  • Solution: Replace HVAC blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Power window switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, difficulty operating windows
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary The 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante is a reliable car that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, it does have some common issues that can be expensive to fix. The most serious issues include transmission slipping, engine oil leaks, and electrical problems. Overall, the Diamante is a good choice for those who are looking for a comfortable and reliable sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues that can come with this vehicle.