2003 Mitsubishi Galant

The 2003 Mitsubishi Galant was a mid-size sedan offered with two engine options: a 2.4L 4G64 inline-four producing 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L 6G75 V6 producing 230 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Galant for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but criticized it for its lackluster fuel economy and some reliability issues.

Engine

2.4L 4G64 Inline-Four

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. This can result in oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and visible cracking or tearing of the engine mount.
  • Solution: Replacing the damaged engine mount(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L 6G75 V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.4L engine, oil leaks can occur from various locations. This can result in oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 3.8L engine uses a timing belt that requires periodic replacement. Failure to replace the timing belt at the recommended interval (usually around 60,000 miles) can lead to belt breakage, resulting in significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt and water pump at the recommended interval.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Could be related to worn or dirty transmission fluid and require a full flush and refill. However, it could also be a result of internal damage requiring a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $2000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or shaking during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and visible leaks from the struts or shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows that operate slowly, intermittently, or not at all. Often caused by a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine, or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody. Can lead to structural damage if left untreated.
  • Solution: Removing the rust, repairing the damaged metal, and repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair. Replacement is ideal, but often cost prohibitive. Repair can temporarily improve look, but is likely to crack again.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (repair) - $500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaching from the roof of the car and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replacing the headliner material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mitsubishi Galant has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most significant problems revolve around oil leaks, transmission issues, and electrical failures. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, with some being relatively inexpensive to fix while others can require significant repairs. Careful inspection of the vehicle before purchase is recommended.