The Good
The 2003 Mitsubishi Galant offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. Its reputation for Japanese reliability also provided peace of mind. The sporty GTS trim offered more engaging performance, appealing to those seeking a bit more excitement. Its affordability made it an attractive value proposition.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant include reports of premature transmission issues, especially in the earlier models of this generation. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The interior plastics may feel cheap, and some find the styling dated. Be mindful of oil leaks, too.
2003 Mitsubishi Galant: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: Available on DE, ES, and LS trims.
- 3.0L V6: Available on LS and standard on GTS trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L I4: Approximately 140-145 hp.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 195-200 hp.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4L I4: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
- 3.0L V6: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4L I4: Around 9-10 seconds.
- 3.0L V6: Around 7.5-8.5 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DE: Base model, typically with basic features like air conditioning, power windows/locks.
- ES: Adds features like cruise control, upgraded audio.
- LS: Adds alloy wheels, keyless entry, and available leather upholstery. The LS could be had with either the I4 or V6.
- GTS: Sporty trim with V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, rear spoiler, and upgraded interior trim.
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Galant |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant Have?
While specific recalls can be checked on the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov), common concerns for this era of Galant often revolve around the aforementioned transmission problems and rust. Long-term reliability can be a concern if regular maintenance is neglected. The V6 engine is generally considered more reliable than the transmission paired with it. There were no particularly significant year-specific issues drastically differentiating the 2003 model from other years in that generation (1999-2003), so the concerns are fairly consistent across the board.
How long will the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional features could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and leather upholstery. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the test and model year, but generally, the Galant received average scores for frontal impact protection and side impact protection. Keep in mind these are relative to the standards of the early 2000s. The technology is outdated by modern standards, so don't expect features like Bluetooth connectivity or advanced safety systems. Stability control was not available on this model. Side airbags were optional.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Prices and Market Value
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Cost of Ownership
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Fuel Efficiency
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Mitsubishi Galant Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives to the 2003 Galant include the Toyota Camry (for reliability), Honda Accord (for overall quality), and Mazda 6 (for a sportier driving experience). The Nissan Altima is a similar alternative, although its reliability record isn't always stellar. If reliability is a top priority, the Accord or Camry would be better choices, even if they cost a bit more upfront. The Mazda 6 offers a better driving experience. If price is the biggest concern, the Galant can be a decent option, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs.
Ranks #2017 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2017 | 2003 Mitsubishi Galant | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant a Good Sedan?
Silva on March 30, 2024
Most reliable car in my garageMy 2003 Mitsubishi galant has been super reliable and fun JDM car due to it, sharing the same engine as the eclipse and Lancer from the same parts are fairly cheap when something does brake and it stock is a super fun car. 160,000mil
Earl on August 14, 2020
Reliable until unforeseen expense came upThis car served me well through the winter. The most unforeseen issue was its undoing: The head gasket. Other issues surfaced, and unrelenting pressure is on me to scrap the vehicle...as NO ONE is willing to tow, repair, replace and take care of an otherwise good vehicle.
Jessica on April 16, 2020
Most reliable carGreat transportation.Very reliable.Very dependable.Runs very good.Very dependable.Best car I ever had without a lot of mechanical issues. The car been running outstanding no issues. A great car.
Chantavia120 on December 13, 2018
ReliableI have on this car since 2016 it had two owners before me. I spend 40 bucks in gas and will last for two weeks at the most. It still runs nice never had a problem with it. Does great on the highway. Perfect for a new driver. Easy to maintain doesn’t give me any problems. I bought mine for 450 but honestly it was worth it.
Carguy01 on August 28, 2018
it's slowslow, poor gas mileage for its size. it's a normal person car. if you're a car enthusiast get the eclipse or Evo. gallant is SLOW.
Goose on August 12, 2018
A great carThis car is very dependable and has met my family's needs. It has a large truck space which helps our family when going on vacations.
hollanddeandre on August 22, 2017
Test and inspect the heck out of this car!The car is a great vehicle to get you to A and B, easy car to pay off if the price is cheap. Don't let a dealer or private seller jip you out of your money because these cars can have a lot of problems if you don't test drive it or inspect it. It's great on gas, air conditioner works great, it's mostly the inside involving the engine and computer you may see problems. I have my car checked out all the time and they can't find a problem unless the 'check engine' light is on. Luckily, I only had one owner. Bought is December 2014, it's now August 2017 and I feel like it's on it's last leg. Paid it off last year. Just be sure that you check EVERYTHING so your car doesn't give out so soon.
Gallanonim on July 10, 2017
Most reliable of the ones I OwnedGreat. Love the styling love performance and longevity. Owned it since I bought it, through the last rip to junk yard. Made over 200000 miles on it. Easy to maintain and up keep.
hollanddeandre on April 30, 2017
This car is a trooper!How I would describe this car, it's like a Honda; it'll last long and it'll survive as long as possible as long as you take care of it. Mantience on it is easy, there's no foreign complications for mechanics like you'll get with Lexus or BMW. Most mechanics know how to operate on this vehicle. Parts are cheap too, and oil changes are a breeze. Easy car to start off with for a teenager or a young adult.
tk on March 14, 2014
2003 Mit Galant bought in 2014I got this car from a private seller. The a/c has to be totally replaced and I had to get another window motor for the driver side. Aside from that, it gets about 26.6 mpg mixed, really has a lot of power on the road, pretty tight handling, sometimes too tight lol. Good brakes, tran, engine, everything so far. I would recommend this car to someone if it's from a private seller. If it's taken care of then it is a good car. I've been driving this car all over the place the last month I have had it and it seems to handle it all well. Of course Mitsubishi and their paint job leaves a lot to be desired but can't expect a perfect car when it's 11 years old right.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.