2005 Mitsubishi Galant

The 2005 Mitsubishi Galant is a mid-size sedan that offered a comfortable ride and decent handling for its time. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 producing around 160 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L V6 generating approximately 230 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were generally reliable, however, some issues have surfaced over time. Owners often appreciate the Galant’s spacious interior and simple design. Downsides frequently mentioned are the somewhat bland styling and average fuel economy. All trims came standard with an automatic transmission.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual increase in oil consumption over time, requiring more frequent oil top-offs. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust may be present in severe cases.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings and valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency, reduced engine performance, and potential rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, potentially dripping onto the exhaust manifold and causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud rattling or knocking noise from the engine, especially at startup or idle. Can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing belt jumps or breaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump as a preventative measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifts, slipping between gears, or harsh engagement of gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid and filter may help in some cases, but often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid/filter) - $1,500 - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Stalling or difficulty maintaining speed on inclines.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or vague steering, wandering on the road, and clunking noises from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, moving slowly, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard (battery, check engine), difficulty starting the vehicle, or complete loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the wheel wells and rocker panels, especially in areas with harsh winter weather.
  • Solution: Rust repair, involving removing the rust, applying rust converter, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per area depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair with a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (dash cover) - $800 - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console breaks, preventing the console from closing properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mitsubishi Galant, while generally a reliable vehicle, does have some common issues. Engine problems such as excessive oil consumption and valve cover leaks can be moderate in cost. Transmission issues, particularly slipping, can be more expensive to address. Suspension problems, like strut mount failure, are also common. Rust issues on the exterior can be costly to repair depending on severity. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential repairs when considering purchasing a used 2005 Mitsubishi Galant.