2010 Mitsubishi Galant

2010 Mitsubishi Galant

Overview

The 2010 Mitsubishi Galant, in its final model year, offered a blend of comfort and practicality, though its long-term reliability faced mixed reviews. While generally considered a decent option for its price point, certain areas have shown a propensity for issues that go beyond routine maintenance. Owners often reported a satisfactory experience, but potential buyers should be aware of specific mechanical and electrical concerns that have been documented. This analysis focuses on common non-wear-and-tear problems reported by owners and technicians, providing insights into potential repair costs and solutions for the 2010 model year.

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Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (4G69)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $250 - $600

Timing Belt Issues

• Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, loss of power, potential catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys.
• Cost: $500 - $900

3.8L V6 (6G75)

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, engine misfires, overheating.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Cooler Line Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, potential transmission damage due to low fluid.
• Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler lines.
• Cost: $300 - $550

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerking or clunking during gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping out of gear.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $2500+

Torque Converter Issues

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

6-Speed Automatic (W6A580)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Power Failures

• Symptoms: Various electrical components (lights, power windows, locks) failing intermittently or not working at all.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: The clear coat on the paint begins to flake or peel, particularly on horizontal surfaces.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas or the entire vehicle.
• Cost: $500 - $3000+

Headlight Lens Hazing

Hazing/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility due to oxidation of the plastic lenses.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow (e.g., only hot air, air only from defroster vents).
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Power Window Motors

Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows stop working, slow operation, or make grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator.
• Cost: $250 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2010 Mitsubishi Galant presents a mixed reliability profile. While the 6-speed automatic transmission is generally robust, the 4-speed automatic has seen reports of harsh shifting and torque converter issues. Engine-wise, both the 2.4L and 3.8L engines can experience oil leaks and, in the case of the 2.4L, timing belt concerns. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the Body Control Module and alternators, are not uncommon. Suspension components like control arm bushings and strut mounts can wear out, leading to noise and handling issues. Exterior paint and interior HVAC components also have documented problems. Overall, while not a complete disaster, potential owners should budget for potential repairs beyond standard maintenance, especially concerning the transmission and electrical systems.