Avoid: 2002, 2001, 2000 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2008
9 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 13 model years, the Mitsubishi Galant has 1,296 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 41 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are service brakes and hydraulic. 1999 drew the most complaints (237), 2008 the fewest (6).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mitsubishi Galant vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $3,500–$6,197.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 1999 (237 complaints). Lowest: 2008 (6).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. The Galant is widely recognized as a budget-friendly, functional, and generally reliable sedan, particularly in its naturally aspirated four-cylinder and V6 configurations.
Recurrent clogging of thermostats due to internal engine corrosion, coolant leaks from undetermined sources, failed components (thermostat, radiator).
Delayed shifting, harsh engagement, loss of all gears, violent shaking, torque converter clutch (TCL) errors.
Chronic mechanical issues including multiple clutch failures, idle problems, engine rebuilds, cracked exhaust manifolds, fuel pump failures, leading to an untrustworthy vehicle.
Budget-grade materials, cracked dashboards, generally low-rent feel compared to competitors.
Major coolant leaks leading to rapid loss, often from areas under the engine.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Galant. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy