2007 Mitsubishi Galant

2007 Mitsubishi Galant

Overview

The 2007 Mitsubishi Galant, a mid-size sedan, offered a blend of comfort and practicality for its era. It was available with different engine and transmission choices, catering to varying driver preferences. While generally considered a decent vehicle for its time, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of its reliability.

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Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (4G69)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, loss of power, engine knocking sounds.
• Solution: Replacement of the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys. If failure occurred, potential engine internal damage repair.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

3.8L V6 (6G75)

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light, coolant loss.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Variable Intake Manifold (VIM) Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of low-end torque, check engine light with specific codes.
• Solution: Replacement of the VIM actuator assembly.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, engine revving without acceleration, harsh shifting.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $400 - $2500+

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

5-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, burning smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Power Failures

• Symptoms: Randomly failing interior lights, power windows, door locks, or dashboard lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels

Rusting Wheel Arches and Rocker Panels

• Symptoms: Visible rust bubbles or holes on lower body panels.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or panel replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced light output, poor visibility at night.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents or intermittent fan speed.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Power Window Regulators

Failure

• Symptoms: Windows not moving up or down, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator and motor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Mitsubishi Galant presents a mixed reliability profile. Common issues tend to revolve around the powertrain, particularly with the automatic transmission experiencing slipping or torque converter problems. Engine-related concerns include oil leaks and, for the timing belt, potential for significant damage if not maintained. Electrical components like the Body Control Module can be a source of frustration with intermittent failures. Exterior rust on lower body panels and interior issues such as HVAC blower motor failure are also noted. Regular maintenance, especially for the timing belt and transmission fluid, is crucial for mitigating some of these potential problems. While not plagued by widespread catastrophic failures, owners should be aware of these common repair areas.