1. Safety Precautions:
- Disconnect the battery's negative terminal to avoid electrical hazards.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to ensure the vehicle stays in place.
2. Lift the Vehicle:
Use a car jack and jack stands to safely lift the front of the vehicle and provide access to the underside.
3. Locate the Starter:
- The starter is typically positioned near the bottom of the engine, usually below the intake manifold.
- In the 2003 Mitsubishi Galant, it's mounted on the driver's side of the engine bay.
4. Disconnect Electrical Connections:
- Identify the positive and negative electrical connections on the starter.
- Disconnect the positive connection first, followed by the negative connection.
5. Remove the Starter Bolts:
- Locate the bolts that hold the starter in place.
- Use a suitable wrench or socket to loosen and remove these bolts.
- Be mindful of any brackets or components that may need to be temporarily removed to access the starter bolts.
6. Remove the Starter:
- Once the bolts are removed, carefully wiggle and pull the starter out of its position.
- Be cautious not to drop the starter and damage it or any surrounding components.
7. Inspect the Starter:
- Take a moment to inspect the starter for any signs of damage, corrosion, or wear.
- Check the electrical contacts for cleanliness and replace them if necessary.
8. Install the New Starter:
- Position the new starter in the designated area.
- Secure the starter with the removed bolts, taking care to apply the appropriate torque as specified in the vehicle's repair manual.
9. Reconnect Electrical Connections:
- Reconnect the negative electrical connection first, followed by the positive connection.
- Ensure that the connections are secure and tight to prevent any electrical issues.
10. Reinstall Any Removed Components:
- Reinstall any components or brackets that were temporarily removed to access the starter.
11. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack and jack stands.
12. Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the vehicle's battery by attaching the negative terminal.
13. Test the Starter:
- Turn the ignition to the "Start" position without attempting to start the engine.
- The starter should engage and crank the engine over.
14. Verify Proper Function:
- Start the vehicle and confirm that the starter is functioning correctly.
That covers how to replace the starter on a 2003 Mitsubishi Galant. Please note that if you're uncomfortable with performing these repairs, it's best to seek assistance from a certified mechanic to ensure the job is done safely and accurately.
