2001 Gallant SE Common Problems
 

My friends daughter just bought a used 2001 Gallant Se. We were just reading on the forum to see if there are common problems we should be aware of. So far she really llikes the car!

RE: 2001 Gallant SE Common Problems
 

Probably the biggest problem will be the fact that there is a teenage girl behind the wheel...but that's another topic all together.

Other than that, there really shouldn't be too much to worry about - it's Japanese, you know?

1) Change tranny fluid religiously using Mitsu fluid every 30K or less to avoid varnish build up and harsh shifting/wear. This is important!
2) Change oil and filter religiously every 3-4K to avoid annoying lifter tick after 100K and premature engine wear. I use 5w30 in winter and 10w30 in summer. Important!
3) Dashboard bulbs will burn-out after about 80-90K miles. Cheap and easy fix with bulbs from local parts store.
4) Rotate tires every 10K or less as rear camber will wear inner tire tread prematurely.
5) Replace coolant every two years or 24K and head gasket will never be an issue. After 100K, I recommend replacing every year. Important!
6) Timing belt should be replaced with a genuine Mitsu belt prior to 100K.
7) Stock OEM shocks and struts will last a long time, if not a lifetime, if she drives easy (I've got 130K on mine and they're finally shot). KYB GR-2's are a direct OEM replacement when that time comes.
8) Stock shock and strut mounts don't last a lifetime. Expect to replace these around 75K.
9) Interior fabric will wear on seat bolsters if she's on the large side from getting in and out of car. If this is the case, I'd suggest some covers.
10) Mitsu brake rotors will wear to the point of pulsation in less than 25K if she drives/stops hard. They can be cut once safely. After that, I'd replace them once pulsation becomes too annoying. Again, I got 130K out of my rotors with one cut on the lathe before replacing.
11) Based on driving style, expect brake pads to last anywhere from 50K-75K miles.
12) The front edge of the hood collects water under the weather strip and will begin to rust after 4-5 years depending on climate and salt exposure. Keep an eye on this and keep it clean / dry after washing.

Just basic maintenance really. If she takes care of the car, it will last long beyond her desire to keep it. I'm over 130K on my '99 ES V6 and it still looks and rides as good as it did from day one. I'll keep it until it completely dies on me!