2002 Mitsubishi Galant
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mitsubishi › Galant › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. Newest first.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dope, inc. Will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on july 28, 2009. owners may contact dope, inc. At 1-626-272-1798.
Certain passenger vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 208, 'occupant crash protection.' the bilingual english/spanish removable air bag warning labels affixed to the dash and to the sunvisor do not meet the size requirements of the standard.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Remedy
Mitsubishi caribbean will mail a customer notification letter containing a written description and a graphic of the bi-lingual dashboard air bag warning label. in addition, all current 2000-2004 nativa owners will also receive replacement air bag alert labels for the sun visors. this recall IS expected to begin during march or april 2005. the notification to the nativa owners IS expected to begin during april or may 2005. owners should contact mitsubishi caribbean at 1-787-251-8715.
On certain passenger vehicles, routing of the vehicle's front harness can allow it to come in contact with a rough edge, allowing abrasion. This could result in grounded circuits.
Risk and remedy
Risk
There could be a loss of stop or turn signal lamp operation or engine hesitation.
Remedy
Dealers will install a protector, eliminating any harness contact. owner notification began july 8, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037.
Owner complaints
135 complaints21 involved a crash10 involved a fire19 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. The contact stated that while his son was being chased by another motorist at 40 MPH, he lost control of the vehicle as he attempted to brake. The vehicle veered off the road and initially hit a garbage can that ricocheted and broke another vehicle's…
The contact owns a 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. The contact stated that while his son was being chased by another motorist at 40 MPH, he lost control of the vehicle as he attempted to brake. The vehicle veered off the road and initially hit a garbage can that ricocheted and broke another vehicle's taillight. The vehicle continued to move forward before it hit both an electrical box and a tree which stopped the vehicle's momentum. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. His son was treated at the scene for the soreness to his chest and back and for other minor cuts and bruises. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it remained in their possession. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 131,000.
- Exterior lighting
I've had this 2002 mitsubishi galant for a number of years and have always had a problem with the lights. they don't shine bright enough to clearly see the road ahead. it IS a constant problem. I thought it was just a problem with my car, but it seems like other people have had the same problem.
- Electrical system › Wiring › Fuses and circuit breakers
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. While driving at various speeds, the low beam headlights and the signal lamp failed to operate when activated. The failure recurred constantly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuse failed and needed to be replaced.…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. While driving at various speeds, the low beam headlights and the signal lamp failed to operate when activated. The failure recurred constantly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuse failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 02v147000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 25,000.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2002 mitsubishi galant. While driving approximately 25 mph, another vehicle crashed into the front driver side of the contact's vehicle at approximately 55 mph. The contact's vehicle went airborne and landed on all four wheels. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact…
TL* the contact owned a 2002 mitsubishi galant. While driving approximately 25 mph, another vehicle crashed into the front driver side of the contact's vehicle at approximately 55 mph. The contact's vehicle went airborne and landed on all four wheels. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact suffered a neck injury that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that the cruise control light illuminated on the instrument panel without it being manually activated. The vehicle was not diagnosed and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 186,000. updated 6/11/15*cn updated 06/16/15*jb
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting › Turn signal
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that the left turn signal failed to work intermittently. The vehicle was not inspected or diagnosed. The contact was not included in recall nhtsa campaign number: 02v147000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 105,000.
- Air bags
Tl-the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact stated while driving approximately 60 mph there was a loss of steering control and the vehicle crashed into a guard rail. The air bags failed to deploy with the impact. The driver sustained injury to the shoulder and suffered from moderate…
Tl-the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact stated while driving approximately 60 mph there was a loss of steering control and the vehicle crashed into a guard rail. The air bags failed to deploy with the impact. The driver sustained injury to the shoulder and suffered from moderate headaches. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent auto shop. The manufacturer was not notified of the problem. The failure mileage was unavailable. js
- Power train
Transmission went out. There may have been a service bulletin? Not that many miles. *tr updated 12/04/12*lj
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that while exiting the vehicle she noticed a burning smell. After returning to the vehicle an hour later there was smoke being emitted from the passenger side front door. The fire was extinguished and the wires were cut to prevent…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that while exiting the vehicle she noticed a burning smell. After returning to the vehicle an hour later there was smoke being emitted from the passenger side front door. The fire was extinguished and the wires were cut to prevent further thermal events. The vehicle was able to be driven to the contact's residence and was not taken to a mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the issue. The failure and current mileages were 129,250. The vin was not available.
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel · Exterior lighting › Turn signal
Instrument panel lights don't come on. fuses all ok, switches ok, reostat ok. Could be bulbs behind instrument panel - or circuit board. can't drive at night -can't see the instrument panel. interior lights ok. Blinker lights ok but won't turn off after making turn. Can't get information from mitsubishi on what it may be. *js
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact stated that the front passenger door caught on fire as the contact started the vehicle and opened the front passenger window. The fire department was notified of the failure. The contact separated the passenger door panel and poured water…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact stated that the front passenger door caught on fire as the contact started the vehicle and opened the front passenger window. The fire department was notified of the failure. The contact separated the passenger door panel and poured water in the panel to stop the fire. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 136,000.
- Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling
I am having problems with my car not wanting to start. this has been going on for quite some time. I took it to the dealer and they replaced the cam shaft censor after a month or two the starting problem started again. I then had the coils, wires and battery cable replace and still have the…
I am having problems with my car not wanting to start. this has been going on for quite some time. I took it to the dealer and they replaced the cam shaft censor after a month or two the starting problem started again. I then had the coils, wires and battery cable replace and still have the problem. I want to know if there has been recalls for these problems no I have not been told. I only have 68000 miles on this car and should not be having this problem. *tr
- Electrical system · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact stated that the passenger side power window failed intermittently. in addition, the horn would engage sporadically and would not stop. The manufacturer and dealer were notified of the failure, but denied any assistance with repairs. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 100,000 and the current mileage 110,218.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, another vehicle crashed into his passenger side at a high speed. The airbags did not deploy during the crash. The driver suffered injuries to the knee and chest, and the passenger suffered…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, another vehicle crashed into his passenger side at a high speed. The airbags did not deploy during the crash. The driver suffered injuries to the knee and chest, and the passenger suffered injuries to the chest. A police report was filed and available upon request. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were 120,000.
- Electrical system · Interior lighting
1. Purchased "as IS" in daylight hours, did not notice interior lights did not function. 2. Interior lights and trunk light do not function. this IS a permanent condition. 3. Using ohmmeter, interior light filaments checked, trunk light filament checked. all ok. no voltages measured at inputs…
1. Purchased "as IS" in daylight hours, did not notice interior lights did not function. 2. Interior lights and trunk light do not function. this IS a permanent condition. 3. Using ohmmeter, interior light filaments checked, trunk light filament checked. all ok. no voltages measured at inputs to all. fuses all ok. door switch ok. lifted fuses 16 & 17 in engine compartment, no voltage to contacts that should have 12 volts always on, per schematic. looked up recall # 29924 for this model, year, make, and would appear to be under color of grounding of wires. *Tr
- Structure › Frame and members
The drivers side floor IS constantly wet in my 2001 galant. It started happening in the last 3 months. I checked the underside of the car and do not see any holes; the undercarriage coating looks fine. There IS a little support beam under the floor board of the car that I can not peer into. The fluid does not appear to be coolant. It does not look or smell like coolant. *tr
- Structure
Paint turning white a peeling over entire vehicle. *Tr
- Electrical system · Structure › Body
I have 2 complaints. I have a 2002 black mitsubishi galant ES and like many others I see on the road and have read about on the internet. Oxydization has occurred all over my car, it started about 2 years ago and buffing and waxing does not help. Also, another problem that started about 2 years…
I have 2 complaints. I have a 2002 black mitsubishi galant ES and like many others I see on the road and have read about on the internet. Oxydization has occurred all over my car, it started about 2 years ago and buffing and waxing does not help. Also, another problem that started about 2 years ago: when turning from air to heat or vice versa, there IS a loud clicking noise and then it will turn over when it feels like. I think recently it has just given out and completely broke. I just paid this car off and am embarrassed to drive it. *Tr
- Structure › Body
Paint defect leads t rapid oxidation and rusting of car. *Tr
- Structure
2002 black mitsubishi galant, it seems that all the galants for several years have problems with the paint..the paint its like disappearing if you look around and pay attention you will find a white coating coming from the primer used... I would like to know why a recall have not been issue yet. *Tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
While the 2002 galant was in park and engine off , vehicle was parked in steep driveway I was fastening baby into carseat on rear passenger side other child bumped gear shift into reverse and car engaged . I was dragged with vehicle down driveway across street into a yard and into a tree where…
While the 2002 galant was in park and engine off , vehicle was parked in steep driveway I was fastening baby into carseat on rear passenger side other child bumped gear shift into reverse and car engaged . I was dragged with vehicle down driveway across street into a yard and into a tree where vehicle came to rest after crashing into tree. The galants shift lock does not work the brake should have to be depressed to shift and not at all if engine IS off. This needs to be investigated as this could well have been fatal. Luckily I received only a broken foot and cuts. *Tr
- Structure › Body · Wheels
2002 mitsubishi galant has a paint defect that IS seen in every black galant that IS seen on the road. The manufacturer denies any responsibility. in addition the vehicle loses hub caps constantly. This can also be seen in almost every galant on the road manufactured around those years. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact attempted to start the vehicle, but was unsuccessful. he towed the vehicle to the dealer and they replaced the intake manifold; however, the failure recurred eight months later. the contact took the vehicle back to the dealer and they…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mitsubishi galant. the contact attempted to start the vehicle, but was unsuccessful. he towed the vehicle to the dealer and they replaced the intake manifold; however, the failure recurred eight months later. the contact took the vehicle back to the dealer and they replaced the intake manifold again. this time the repairs only lasted two months before failing again. the vehicle IS currently being towed back to the dealer. the intake manifold IS prone to cracking where it IS connected to the throttle body. through research, the contact found this to be a very common issue with this year, make, and model vehicle. the manufacturer stated that there were no recalls. the contact believes that a recall should be issued due to the manufacturer defect. the failure mileage was 126,000 and current mileage was 147,000. Updated 08/04/09. *lj the consumer stated the intake manifold was prone to cracking since it IS connected to the throttle body. Updated 08/06/09*jb
- Structure
Our 2002 black mitsubishi galant has paint fading on the trunk and top. two bodyshops have told us this IS common with mitsubishi due to the clear coat used. this IS a well maintained car with only 70,000 miles and looks terrible. *Tr
- Structure › Body
My 2002 silver mitsubishi galant gtz looks horrible. noticing after the car was purchased that the car did not have any real shine to it. tried waxing and still looked bad. even running you hands over it does not feel smooth. well in 2007 I noticed blotchy spots all over it no looks like the…
My 2002 silver mitsubishi galant gtz looks horrible. noticing after the car was purchased that the car did not have any real shine to it. tried waxing and still looked bad. even running you hands over it does not feel smooth. well in 2007 I noticed blotchy spots all over it no looks like the paint IS gone completely. I actually paid extra for the clear coat protection and undercoating innercoating when purchased new. it's as if it showed up as soon as the warranty expired. no one can give me any information and I think I may get a lawyer too. as I read more complaints about this problem, the more and more ticked I am! *Tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Passenger door fire
In response to this investigation, mitsubishi motors north america (mmna) initiated a special program on july 31, 2009, to extend the warranty coverage on model year (my) 2001-2003 galant vehicle passenger side window switches to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first.notification of this special coverage…
In response to this investigation, mitsubishi motors north america (mmna) initiated a special program on july 31, 2009, to extend the warranty coverage on model year (my) 2001-2003 galant vehicle passenger side window switches to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first.notification of this special coverage program to all registered vehicle owners IS scheduled to begin in late-september 2009.owners who have experienced a problem with the power window switch (blown fuse, intermittent operation or power window malfunction) or who spilled liquids or beverages onto the front passenger door window switch will be entitled to have the switch replaced and any related repairs performed at no charge.the agency IS aware of 35 alleged front passenger door panel heat, smoke or fire incidents, including three reported minor burns or bruises.there are no reported crashes or fatalities.there are 307 warranty claims of switch malfunctions or short circuits without any reported heat, smoke or fire.mmna inspection and analysis of fire-damaged door panels/switches found evidence of spilled liquids with high sugar content on the power window switches.mmna claims the residue of these liquids led to a shorting/smoke/ fire condition inside the switch/door panel assembly.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will continue to monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see document file for additional information.
- Passenger door fire
Complaints allege that a fire erupted in the front passenger door.in mitsubishi's response to odi's march 12, 2008 information request, mitsubishi asserts that the alleged defect may occur when large amounts of liquids, more than 100cc (3.4 oz), like a soft drink were spilled directly over the power window switch…
Complaints allege that a fire erupted in the front passenger door.in mitsubishi's response to odi's march 12, 2008 information request, mitsubishi asserts that the alleged defect may occur when large amounts of liquids, more than 100cc (3.4 oz), like a soft drink were spilled directly over the power window switch area, all at once and at one time.mitsubishi found that as the liquid dries off, electrolytes and carbonized particles accumulate between the terminals in the power window switch and become a conductive material.as a result, the switch may start to heat up and melt or ignite the plastic components.however, mitsubishi also asserts that the alleged defect IS very rare and that burning damage will not occur unless liquids enter into the power window switch.odi upgraded this preliminary evaluation to an engineering analysis, ea08-011, to further evaluate this issue.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10240443This is a Dealer Letter sent to dealers informing that Mitsubishi Technical Training has launched the 3rd quarterly technician quiz for 2023.
- 10235609This Technical Service Bulletin provides instructions and material safety data sheets for removal of rap-film adhesive residue.
- 10235608This Technical Service Bulletin reviews the regulations that require a label showing the reduction in load carrying capacity be affixed to vehicles when the total net weight of accessories is more than 1.5 percent of the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or 100 lbs.
- 10235606This is a Dealer Letter sent to dealers informing that Mitsubishi Technical Training has launched the 2nd quarterly technician quiz for 2023.
- 10211530This Technical Service Bulletin was sent to dealers to explain the difference between normal dew condensation, which is a natural phenomenon, and water penetration caused by improper sealing or a defective/broken part.
- 10170852This Technical Service Bulletin updates the door adjustment procedure in the Body Section of the applicable service manuals.
- 10170100This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170099This is an index of Tech Talk newsletter articles released in 2012.
- 10170097This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170096This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170087This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170086This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170074This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170071This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10170070This TSB contains troubleshooting steps for diagnosis of various customer complaints relating to the audio system speakers in Mitsubishi vehicles equipped with original equipment audio components.
- 10169006This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10163703This is a Technical Service Bulletin sent to dealers. This bulletin supersedes TSB-18-00-003, issued April, 2018, to add updated information for Carrying Capacity Reduced Label.
- 10130469This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
- 10130468This is a message sent to dealers, to inform them that an update for MEDIC will be available.
- 10032588Mitsubishi service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Front passenger door window switch warranty extension. Extending the warranty for the front passenger door window switch on all affected vehicles to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first, from the original in service date. Csc letter was received. Updated 8/9/10
- 10021743Reprogramming the pcm drivability or sensitivity issues can be corrected.
- 10019047Cruise control system checks - service manual revision.
- 10017675Fuel pump operation check - service manual revision.
- 100167542-3 shift flare.
- 10016133Alternator fr terminal voltage - service manual revision.
- 10015818Power train control module (pcm) reprogramming for cold engine misfire / hot soak restart / rough idle. Revision.
- 10014427Clicking from hvac system.
- 10014421Door hard to open from inside.
- 10014399Cold engine misfire.
- 10014396Mil on hot engine misfire no driveability concerns.
- 100143592-3 shift flare.
- 10014198Clicking noise at instrument panel.
- 10014197Door hard to open from inside.
- 10014193Cold engine misfire.
- 10014192Buzz rattle at rear floor.
- 10014191Intermittent rough idle engine stops.
- 10010660Power train module reprogramming for dianostic trouble code p0125.
- 10008910Clock spring installation. Mitsubishi motors. Tech talk. Vol. 88. Nov. 2002.
- 10008908Heated door mirror stickers. Mitsubishi motors tech talk. Vol. 88. Nov. 2002.
- 10004455Debris (such as leaves, etc.) entering the front cowl area may clog the evaporator housing drain tube. If this occurs, the evaporator housing may fill up with condensation and overflow into the passenger compartment, and into the blower motor through the cooling tube.
Every Mitsubishi Galant model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.