The 1998 Mitsubishi Galant is a midsize four-door sedan designed to offer a comfortable daily commute with a sportier feel than many rivals in its class. It sits in the sixth-generation Galant run (1994–1998), with 1998 representing the final model year before the full redesign for 1999. This Galant is ideal for drivers who want a practical sedan with available V6 power, straightforward controls, and a generally affordable used-car price point. In the market, it competed with cars like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, often undercutting them on purchase price while offering comparable space.

1) Midsize sedan packaging: Comfortable seating for five, a usable trunk, and an easy-to-live-with size for city driving and commuting. 2) Engine choices: Commonly offered with a 2.4L inline-4 (good balance of economy and everyday torque) or an available 3.0L V6 for stronger acceleration and highway passing power. 3) Front-wheel-drive layout: Predictable handling in normal conditions, with simpler driveline maintenance than AWD systems. 4) Automatic or manual transmission availability (varies by trim/market): Many cars are equipped with an automatic, while some four-cylinder models were available with a manual for drivers who prefer more control and often lower long-term ownership costs. 5) Value-oriented equipment: Depending on trim, features may include power windows/locks, air conditioning, cruise control, alloy wheels, and a factory audio system—often a solid list for a late-1990s midsize sedan.

Shoppers researching 1998 Mitsubishi Galant problems, 1998 Mitsubishi Galant reliability, or 1998 Mitsubishi Galant common issues will find that these cars can be dependable with consistent upkeep, but age-related failures are common on higher-mileage examples. 1) Automatic transmission wear or shifting problems: Some owners report delayed engagement, harsh shifts, slipping, or failure—often showing up around 120,000–180,000 miles depending on service history. Regular fluid changes help, but neglected units can become expensive quickly. 2) Engine oil leaks and gasket seepage: Valve cover gasket leaks and general oil seepage are common on older Galants, sometimes becoming noticeable after 100,000 miles. Leaks can lead to oil smells, mess, or low oil levels if ignored. 3) Cooling system issues and overheating risk: Aging radiators, hoses, thermostats, and coolant caps can contribute to overheating, particularly on high-mileage vehicles. Overheating events are serious because they can warp cylinder heads or damage head gaskets. 4) Suspension and steering wear: Worn struts, control arm bushings, sway bar links, and ball joints can cause clunks, vibration, uneven tire wear, or loose steering feel, commonly appearing between 100,000–160,000 miles depending on road conditions.