Credov

Mitsubishi Galant Fortis Sportback common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 4 faults the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis Sportback is known for (2007–2017), 3 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Mitsubishi Galant Fortis Sportback

ABS pump module failure

Costly if missed

2007–2017 · Brakes

What to look for: Check the ABS and ASC lights come on with the ignition and go out after starting, and stay off over rough roads.

Why it matters: A second-hand unit is a poor bet as it has the same weak motor. Before condemning the module, rule out a dirty or damaged wheel speed sensor and a weak 12 V battery, because C2116 also logs when voltage drops below 12 V. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$700-$3,000 range.

Sources: 1 2 3

CVT overheats, slow-down warning

Costly if missed

2007–2017 · 4B11, 4B12, 4B10 · petrol · Gearbox

What to look for: On a long motorway run or hill climb, watch for a thermometer or slow-down warning and a sudden loss of power.

Why it matters: Low or old fluid makes it worse: an owner reports a dealer bulletin on a faulty CVT dipstick leading to wrong fluid levels, and others found the external CVT cooler or its lines corroded and leaking. Repeated overheating ages the fluid and the belt and pulleys and leads to whine and failure. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$400-$6,500 range.

Sources: 1 2 3

CVT pulley bearing whine

Costly if missed

2007–2017 · 4B11, 4B12, 4B10 · petrol · Gearbox

What to look for: At 20-60 km/h with the radio off, listen for a clicking that speeds up with road speed, or a whine.

Why it matters: US owners also describe a loud whine before the CVT lost drive. Caught early the bearings can be replaced by a specialist; left, the belt and pulleys are damaged and the whole CVT is replaced. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$2,000-$6,500 range.

Sources: 1 2 3

Clear coat peels on horizontal panels

Minor

2007–2017 · Body and structure

What to look for: In good light from a low angle, look along the roof, bonnet and boot for milky patches or lifting film.

Why it matters: Once clear coat starts lifting, polishing does not stop it; the only lasting fix is to strip and repaint the affected panels. It does not affect how the car drives but it is a real price point on a used Lancer. Repairs reported in the roughly NZ$800-$3,500 range.

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Mitsubishi Galant Fortis Sportback? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Mitsubishi models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.