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2004 Mitsubishi Galant

Introduction:

The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.4-liter inline-4 that produced 145 horsepower and 157 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-liter V6 was also available, producing 230 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual for the 2.4-liter engine, and a 5-speed automatic for the 3.0-liter engine.

The Galant was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. However, it was criticized for its lack of power, poor fuel economy, and cheap-feeling interior.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and a drop in engine performance. The gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Timing belt tensioner failure: The timing belt tensioner can fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break. Symptoms include difficulty starting, engine misfires, and a loss of power. The tensioner and timing belt must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

3.0L V6

  • Valve cover gasket leak: The valve cover gasket can fail, causing oil leaks. Symptoms include low oil levels and oil spots on the ground. The gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Plenum gasket failure: The plenum gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. Symptoms include a rough idle, stalling, and a decrease in engine power. The gasket must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears. Symptoms include a delay in acceleration, a loss of power, and shuddering. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip or lose power. Symptoms include a lack of acceleration, overheating, and a shuddering feeling. The torque converter must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+

5-Speed Automatic

  • Shift solenoid failure: The shift solenoid can fail, causing the transmission to shift hard or not shift at all. Symptoms include delayed or rough shifting, and a lack of power. The shift solenoid must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Input shaft seal leak: The input shaft seal can fail, causing transmission fluid to leak. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels and fluid spots on the ground. The seal must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Suspension

  • Strut mount bearing failure: The strut mount bearings can fail, causing a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps. The bearings must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Control arm bushing failure: The control arm bushings can fail, causing a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps. The bushings must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per bushing

Electrical

  • Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include dim headlights, a flickering dashboard, and a dead battery. The alternator must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine, or no noise at all. The starter must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

  • Door lock actuator failure: The door lock actuator can fail, causing the door to lock or unlock unintentionally. Symptoms include the door locking or unlocking on its own, or not locking or unlocking at all. The actuator must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per actuator
  • Window regulator failure: The window regulator can fail, causing the window to become stuck or difficult to move. Symptoms include the window not moving up or down, or moving slowly and erratically. The regulator must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window

Interior

  • Dashboard trim peeling: The dashboard trim can peel or crack over time. This is a cosmetic issue and does not affect the functionality of the vehicle. There is no permanent solution, but the trim can be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • HVAC blower motor failure: The HVAC blower motor can fail, causing the heater or air conditioner to stop working. Symptoms include no air flow from the vents, or a weak air flow. The blower motor must be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary:

The 2004 Mitsubishi Galant is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The engine and transmission issues can be costly to repair, but the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are typically minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the Galant is a good value for the money, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.

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