An iconic model from the manufacturer, the Mitsubishi Galant spanned nine generations from 1969 to 2012, evolving from a compact saloon into a full-sized family saloon. Its petrol and later diesel engines saw power outputs climb from 160 to 260 bhp, and the gearbox kept pace with those developments decade by decade. As the later Galants are now well over ten years old, keeping the transmission in good order is more important than ever. EDEN BOITES shares its advice.
Understanding the Galant's Gearboxes
The first four generations came with four- or five-speed manual gearboxes and three-speed automatic gearboxes of conventional design. In 1983, the Galant V introduced an optional manual gearbox with a twist, called the Super Shift: fitted with two levers, the first selected one of four gears while the second switched between Power and Economy modes, effectively doubling the number of combinations available.
The Super Shift was dropped with the following generation, before the Galant VII introduced Mitsubishi's in-house INVECS automatic gearbox in 1992. The second generation of INVECS added a sequential manual mode, and the INVECS-III, which arrived in 2000, was fitted to the final two generations, delivering exceptionally smooth gear changes. Alongside all of this, the Galant retained a traditional manual gearbox that kept up with the increasing power of its engines.
Maintaining Your Galant's Transmission
Maintenance starts with regular checks of the transmission fluid level; if a top-up is needed, always verify the exact fluid specification first. Keep an eye on the condition of the filters and gearbox oil as well. An oil change is generally recommended every 100,000 km under normal driving conditions, or every 60,000 km for urban or hilly use; on an automatic gearbox, this may require reprogramming. Finally, an annual inspection by a professional allows the overall condition of the gearbox — whether manual or automatic — to be assessed.
Dealing with a Fault: Repair or Replace?
When a fault occurs, you have two options. Repair involves removing the gearbox to identify the root cause — a leaking seal, or a component damaged by impact or wear — and replacing the faulty part. Replacement, on the other hand, is sometimes the more sensible choice, particularly if you opt for a reconditioned gearbox. On the Galant, the variety of transmissions available (Super Shift, INVECS, INVECS-III, traditional manual) makes identifying the correct reference essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Galant's Super Shift gearbox? It is a two-lever manual gearbox, introduced on the Galant V, which doubles the number of combinations by adding a Power/Economy mode.
When should the gearbox oil be changed? Approximately every 100,000 km under normal use, or every 60,000 km in urban or hilly driving conditions.
Is changing the oil on a Galant automatic gearbox a specialist job? Yes — it may require reprogramming, which is why it is best entrusted to a professional.
How do I choose the right replacement gearbox? By taking into account the generation, engine and gearbox type; our advisers will help you pinpoint the exact reference.
Why Choose EDEN BOITES?
Keeping your Galant on the road for the long haul depends on a reliable transmission. As a specialist in reconditioned gearboxes, EDEN BOITES fully refurbishes and checks every reference before dispatch.
- Reconditioned gearboxes tested by our technicians before dispatch;
- A warranty of up to 24 months depending on the reference;
- Pay in up to 10 instalments to spread the cost;
- Delivery throughout France and the European Union, with a lead time confirmed on quote;
- A satisfaction-or-money-back guarantee on exchange units, subject to our Terms and Conditions;
- Collection of your old unit as part of the exchange, for responsible recycling.
To browse the references available for your vehicle and get a personalised quote, visit our Mitsubishi gearboxes collection.
Explore our gearbox collection, our articles on the Mitsubishi Eclipse gearbox and the Mitsubishi Space Wagon gearbox, and our definitive guide on the differences between manual and automatic gearboxes.
