Servicing Imports

Jan. 1, 2020

2 min read

2004 Mitsubishi Galant GTS

This is the first year for the fifth generation Galant. Though Mitsubishi has long been at the leading edge of engine technology (they were first with direct gasoline injection), this one is derived from an earlier design built for simplicity and low cost. The block is cast iron, each cylinder bank has only one camshaft and the valves have adjusting screws.

The timing belt drives the coolant pump, and the power steering pump has its own belt. Ignition timing can be checked accurately only with a scan tool.

The nominal value is 10° BTDC, but it can fluctuate as much as 7°. At higher altitudes, ignition timing may be advanced as much as 10°.

Mitsubishi issues service bulletins as service tips, so there's always a long list. Some of the more significant bulletins for this car are:

The B+ terminal on the alternator is a replaceable part.

New PCM software is available to address MIL illumination with P0174.

The HVAC drain tube may be blocked by a foam seal inside the evaporator case.

If there is a misfire or fuel related malfunction, both the MIL and traction control (TCL OFF) lights will be illuminated at the same time. This is normal. After repairing the fault, don't forget to clear the TCL codes.

A service campaign was launched to repair vehicles that left the factory without the O-ring on the rear ABS wheel speed sensors.

Some drivability problems may be caused by loose or missing air intake duct hold-down buttons.