2012 Mitsubishi Galant

The 2012 Mitsubishi Galant is a mid-size sedan known for its affordability and spacious interior. It was offered with a single engine option: a 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 157 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its comfortable ride and simple design, while others find its fuel economy and performance lacking compared to competitors. Common dislikes also include its outdated interior and limited features.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms may include a low oil light illuminating, and a burning smell from the exhaust.
  • Solution: The solution can range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, depending on the severity. A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the source of the oil consumption.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Catalytic converter failure can result in poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and a check engine light with codes relating to catalytic converter efficiency.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter is the standard solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting between gears. This can manifest as a noticeable jerk when shifting or a delay in the transmission engaging the next gear.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, suspension components like struts, shocks, and control arm bushings can wear out. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components is necessary. This can include struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the component and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or function intermittently. This can be due to a faulty window motor, switch, or wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty component and subsequent replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Light Illumination
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABS light may illuminate due to a faulty ABS sensor, module, or wiring issue. This can affect the functionality of the ABS system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific fault code and repair or replacement of the faulty component is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and other areas prone to moisture exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair can range from sanding and painting affected areas to replacing entire body panels in severe cases. Rust prevention methods can also be applied.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-existent air conditioning can be caused by a refrigerant leak, faulty compressor, or other A/C system component failure.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue and repair or replacement of the faulty component is necessary. This may involve recharging the system, replacing the compressor, condenser, or other parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or the use of a dashboard cover are possible solutions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mitsubishi Galant has some common issues, ranging from moderate to potentially expensive repairs. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and catalytic converter failures can lead to higher running costs. Suspension issues and electrical problems can also be sources of frustration. While not all Galants will experience these problems, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.