1999 Mitsubishi Diamante

Introduction

The 1999 Mitsubishi Diamante is a midsize sedan known for its luxurious interior and comfortable ride. It offers a choice of two engine and transmission options:

• 3.0L V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
• 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission

Despite its strengths, the Diamante has been plagued by certain issues that have affected owners over the years.

Engine

3.0L V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, and reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve covers, causing a burning smell and engine smoke
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Engine

• No Significant Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or shuddering, difficulty shifting gears, delayed gear engagements
  • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, overheating transmission, shuddering or slipping while driving
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises while driving, excessive bouncing, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the worn-out struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, difficulty starting the car, battery warning light illuminated
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Power Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains prematurely or fails completely
  • Solution: Replace the battery or check for any electrical parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Water Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Water accumulates inside the fog lights, causing them to malfunction
  • Solution: Seal the fog light housings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof does not open or close properly, makes grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: AC compressor not engaging, inconsistent temperature control, excessive noise
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty climate control components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Mitsubishi Diamante offers a comfortable and luxurious experience but has been plagued by various issues, including engine gasket leaks, transmission problems, and electrical failures. These issues can range in severity from minor repairs to costly replacements, with some exceeding $2,000 in estimated repair costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a used Diamante.