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Mitsubishi · Known Issues

1998 Mitsubishi Galant Problems: 6 Known Issues

1998 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Mitsubishi Galant has 6 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Recall 00V421001: Front lower lateral arm ball joint can corrode and separate, Timing belt / balance shaft belt failure destroys interference engine ($500-$1,200 repair) and Premature automatic transmission failure (slipping, harsh/failed shifts) ($1,500-$3,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $120 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Galant Engine2
  • Galant Suspension1
  • Galant Transmission1
  • Galant Cooling1
  • Galant Electrical1
  • Recalls12
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Suspension1
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • Electrical1
  • Recalls12
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2012201120102009200820072006200520041999199819971996199519941993199219911990

On the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant, the 4G63 (2.0L) and 4G64 (2.4L) four-cylinders in the 1990s Galant are interference engines driven by a rubber timing belt on a strict 60,000-mile / 7-year replacement interval. On a neglected belt the valves collide with the pistons the instant the belt lets go, bending valves and often cracking piston crowns. A well-documented secondary failure mode is unique to this engine family: the smaller balance-shaft belt (which spins the counter-rotating balance shafts) shreds first, and the debris can be pulled into the main timing belt, snapping it and taking out the valvetrain. Because of this, the balance-shaft belt and its tensioner should always be replaced together with the main timing belt.

Common Symptoms

  • Rough rattling/rubber-slapping noise on startup
  • Sudden loss of power while driving
  • Engine cranks but will not start after belt breaks
  • Rough running or misfire if belt jumps a tooth

How to Fix

Replace the timing belt, balance-shaft belt, water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a complete kit every 60,000 miles or 7 years. Never reuse the old tensioners/pulleys. If the belt has already broken, expect a cylinder-head rebuild (bent valves, valve guides, possibly pistons) or a replacement long block.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Gates PowerGrip timing and balance-belt component kit TCK230A
    OEMGates TCK230A

    1996-1998 Galant 2.4L timing/balance component branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page explicitly fits 1996-1998 Galant 2.4L and lists two belts, two tensioners and one idler. It does not include the hydraulic cam tensione…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant, as the Galant's 4G63/4G64 engines age, the valve cover gasket hardens and leaks oil onto the exhaust manifold, producing a burning-oil smell after warmup and oil pooling in the spark plug wells (which can cause misfires). A related age issue is hardened valve stem seals, which let oil seep past the valves while the engine is off and produce a puff of blue/white smoke on startup. Both are common, low-severity wear items on these high-mileage engines.

Common Symptoms

  • Burning-oil smell after engine warms up
  • Oil residue down the side of the engine / valve cover seam
  • Oil in the spark plug wells, possible misfire
  • Blue-white smoke puff on cold startup (stem seals)

How to Fix

Replace the valve cover gasket (and spark plug tube seals) to stop the external leak; this is a low-cost job. For valve-stem-seal-related startup smoke, replace the stem seals - possible with the head on the block but labor-intensive because the valve springs must be compressed in place.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mahle valve-cover gasket set with spark-plug tube seals VS50267
    OEMMahle VS50267

    1994-1998 Galant 2.4L 4G64 external valve-cover and plug-well leak branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page explicitly fits 1994-1998 Galant 2.4L and states that the molded-rubber set includes spark-plug tube seals. Confirm…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$120 - $1,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 1994-1998 Mitsubishi Galant, mitsubishi recalled 1994-1998 Galant sedans under NHTSA campaign 00V421001 for a front suspension defect. On affected Galants, the rubber boots covering the lower lateral arm ball joints may have been damaged during vehicle assembly, letting dirt and water get inside the joint. Mitsubishi Motors also identified the potential for moisture to leak into the joint, which corrodes the ball stud. A corroded ball stud can allow the lower lateral arm ball joint to separate from the suspension, and losing that joint on a front-wheel-drive car like the Galant means losing control of the wheel it holds - NHTSA states this increases the risk of a crash. The campaign covers 567,432 vehicles in total across every Mitsubishi model included in it, not the Galant alone. This campaign supersedes Mitsubishi's earlier safety recall 99V-066, so a Galant that was previously handled under the 1999 campaign is still covered here and should be re-checked.

Common Symptoms

  • Torn, split or damaged rubber boot on a front lower lateral arm ball joint
  • Visible corrosion or rust on the ball joint stud area
  • Play or looseness in the front lower ball joint found during inspection
  • In the worst case, the lower ball joint separates and the driver loses control of the vehicle

How to Fix

The repair is free at a Mitsubishi dealer. The dealer inspects the front lower lateral arm ball joints for wear. Any joint worn beyond the established tolerance is replaced with a newly designed lateral arm ball joint; joints still within tolerance are cleaned and treated with a special sealant to keep moisture out. Because this campaign supersedes recall 99V-066, don't assume earlier work closes it out - enter your Galant's VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether 00V421001 is still open on your specific car, then book the inspection with a dealer.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 1994-1999 Mitsubishi Galant, the 4-speed automatic in the 1990s Galant is prone to premature internal failure, especially when the fluid is never serviced and no auxiliary cooler is fitted. Documented failure modes include slipping (notably losing drive or slipping in reverse), harsh or delayed 2-3 shifts, flaring, and eventual loss of a gear as clutch packs and valve-body components wear and hydraulic pressure drops. RepairPal lists premature automatic failure as a recognized Galant complaint pattern.

This issue also affects: Mitsubishi Montero

Common Symptoms

  • Slipping / loss of drive, especially in reverse
  • Harsh or delayed 2-3 upshift
  • Flaring or high revs without acceleration
  • Overdrive warning lamp flashing on dash

How to Fix

Preventively service the fluid and filter on a regular interval and add a transmission cooler for hot-climate or towing use. Once slipping/failure has set in, the accepted repair is a valve-body service or a full rebuild/replacement of the transmission. Some units also need an adaptive-shift reset after valve-body work.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $3,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant, like many 1990s Mitsubishis, the Galant uses a radiator with plastic end tanks that grow brittle with age and heat-cycling. The top tank is a very common crack point, producing coolant loss, steam, and overheating. On the turbo 4G63 an overheating event is especially damaging because it can lead to head-gasket failure and warping. Enthusiast community guides call the cracked top tank a frequent, expected age-related failure and recommend switching to an all-metal radiator.

This issue also affects: Mitsubishi Montero

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant loss / puddles under the front
  • Steam or coolant smell
  • Temperature gauge climbing / overheating
  • Visible crack or seepage at the top radiator tank seam

How to Fix

Replace the radiator when the plastic tank cracks; an all-aluminum radiator is the recommended upgrade for durability. Address any coolant loss promptly and inspect hoses and the water pump (which is behind the timing cover) at the same time to avoid overheating damage.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Spectra Premium CU1838 radiator
    OEMSpectra Premium CU1838

    1994-1998 Galant 2.4L radiator replacement branch Fitment/availability: The inspected direct product page explicitly fits 1994-1998 Galant 2.4L and lists an aluminum core, plastic tanks and integrated automatic-transmission cooler. Confi…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $450

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 1994-1998 Mitsubishi Galant 4G64 2.4L I4, the crankshaft position sensor on the 2.4L (4G64) Galant fails with age and heat, sometimes intermittently. Because the ECU uses this signal to fire spark and injection, a failing sensor typically produces a hard-start, an engine that cranks but will not start (often after the engine warms up), or sudden stalling while driving, frequently with the check-engine light on. The sensor is a three-pin Hall-effect unit mounted to the front of the engine reading a trigger plate.

This issue also affects: Mitsubishi Eclipse, Mitsubishi Montero

Common Symptoms

  • Engine cranks but will not start (often when warm)
  • Intermittent stalling while driving
  • Hard starting
  • Check-engine light illuminated

How to Fix

Test the sensor per the diagnostic procedure (resistance/signal check) and replace if out of spec. It is an inexpensive part with about an hour of labor. A no-start with codes P0335/P0340 should prompt inspection of both the crank and cam sensors and confirmation that the timing belt has not jumped a tooth.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • API crankshaft position/reference sensor 7122-07811514
    OEMAPI 7122-07811514

    Diagnosed 1994-1998 Galant CKP branch after 4G64/VIN and connector confirmation Fitment/availability: The inspected direct page lists 1994-1998 Galant, explicitly identifies 1994 4G64 VIN G fitment and shows the harness/connector specifi…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $350

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
NHTSA Recalls12 recalls

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Campaign #09E02500011/05/2009

STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A NUT IN THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY WAS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED, RESULTING IN SYMPTOMS RANGING FROM STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION TO STIFF STEERING, AND IN THE WORST CASE, NO ABILITY TO TURN LEFT.

Campaign #00V22500110/08/2000

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mitsubishi Galant problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Mitsubishi Galant has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Recall 00V421001: Front lower lateral arm ball joint can corrode and separate, Timing belt / balance shaft belt failure destroys interference engine, Premature automatic transmission failure (slipping, harsh/failed shifts). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Mitsubishi Galant reliable?

The 1998 Mitsubishi Galant has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Recall 00V421001: Front lower lateral arm ball joint can corrode and separate and Timing belt / balance shaft belt failure destroys interference engine and Premature automatic transmission failure (slipping, harsh/failed shifts). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mitsubishi Galant problems?

Repair costs for known Mitsubishi Galant issues range from $120 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1994-1998 Mitsubishi Galant Recall 00V421001: Front lower lateral arm ball joint can corrode and separate?

Mitsubishi recalled 1994-1998 Galant sedans under NHTSA campaign 00V421001 for a front suspension defect. On affected Galants, the rubber boots covering the lower lateral arm ball joints may have been damaged during vehicle assembly, letting dirt and water get inside the joint. M… Severity: high.

What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant Timing belt / balance shaft belt failure destroys interference engine?

The 4G63 (2.0L) and 4G64 (2.4L) four-cylinders in the 1990s Galant are interference engines driven by a rubber timing belt on a strict 60,000-mile / 7-year replacement interval. On a neglected belt the valves collide with the pistons the instant the belt lets go, bending valves a… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #00V421001
18/12/2000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES, P/N E7081H, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WALL OF THE FLARED FITTING OF THE FUEL PUMP IS NOT THICK ENOUGH TO PREVENT THE MATING THREADED FITTINGS FROM BOTTOMING OUT BEFORE AN ADEQUATE SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION OF THE VEHICLE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY.

Campaign #07E05500026/07/2007

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CRACKS CAN OCCUR IN THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK DUE TO AN IMPROPER SPOT WELD ON THE BAFFLE PLATE TO THE TOP PORTION OF THE FUEL TANK.

Campaign #00V23700025/08/2000

+ 7 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 1994-1999 Mitsubishi Galant Premature automatic transmission failure (slipping, harsh/failed shifts)?

The 4-speed automatic in the 1990s Galant is prone to premature internal failure, especially when the fluid is never serviced and no auxiliary cooler is fitted. Documented failure modes include slipping (notably losing drive or slipping in reverse), harsh or delayed 2-3 shifts, f… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant Cracked plastic radiator end tank / overheating?

Like many 1990s Mitsubishis, the Galant uses a radiator with plastic end tanks that grow brittle with age and heat-cycling. The top tank is a very common crack point, producing coolant loss, steam, and overheating. On the turbo 4G63 an overheating event is especially damaging bec… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: medium.

What is the 1994-1998 Mitsubishi Galant Crankshaft position sensor failure causes stalling / no-start?

The crankshaft position sensor on the 2.4L (4G64) Galant fails with age and heat, sometimes intermittently. Because the ECU uses this signal to fire spark and injection, a failing sensor typically produces a hard-start, an engine that cranks but will not start (often after the en… Repairs typically run $150-$350. Severity: medium.

What is the 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Galant Valve cover gasket and valve stem seal oil leaks (burning-oil smell)?

As the Galant's 4G63/4G64 engines age, the valve cover gasket hardens and leaks oil onto the exhaust manifold, producing a burning-oil smell after warmup and oil pooling in the spark plug wells (which can cause misfires). A related age issue is hardened valve stem seals, which le… Repairs typically run $120-$1,200. Severity: low.