Mitsubishi Diamante

edwardoplunket · December 2001

For the ignition? I was really surprised by this one when I opened the hood on the 2001 D a year ago. my 1989 galant is distributorless.

Ed

ebrownrx7 · December 2001

In regards to the message by Edwardoplucket:

Three months after purchasing a 97D used, I also developed the warped rotor issue. After finding this site and reading Mr. Vivona's comments, I started to re-torque my lugs to factory specs after any type of work where the wheels had to be removed. No issue with the warped rotors in 15 months.

The issue does exist (no matter what some jerks would have you believe), but if you keep your lugs torqued to the proper specifications, this should be a non-issue in the future.

ED

regfootball · December 2001

Well, I finally purchased a car after looking for what seemed like forever. I was looking to replace my wifes Chevy Prizm which is a good car...but now we needed something a bit bigger. This would be a companion car to our 99 Taurus SHO.

I was all set to purchase a new Saturn L100 special, but...

I ended up buying a used rental return 2001 Mitsubishi Diamante ES that had 11,000 miles on it. Pearl White with tan cloth (really wanted red, but hey we can't always choose).

I am pumped, as we had one for a week on vacation 2 years ago. Boy this car is nice...it is a joy to drive!

I can't wait to take this thing on a long trip!!!!!

vivona · December 2001

ebrownrx7--Keeping the wheel lugs properly torqued will certainly make a big difference. I am at three years and 23,000 miles now and the rotors are still perfect.

In addition to the fact that most car dealers, independent mechanics and tire dealers will overtorque your lug nuts, I am beginning to wonder if there is an assembly issue with the wheels that is causing the problem with new cars. My wife recently bought a new 2002 Diamante. Of course, I checked the lug nuts. On two of the wheels one of the lugs was not fully torqued. My 1999 came with wheel locks, the 2002 did not. I am guessing that they put the wheels on with four lug nuts using the automatic wrench, leaving one lug vacant for the manual application of either the fifth lug nut or a locking nut, depending of how the car is specified. That nut is probably put on with hand tools and if it is not tightened properly, you end up with inconsistent lug nut torqueing. I am recommending that all new Diamante buyers check the wheel lug torque on all wheels to assure that it is correct, then keeping it that way.

Mr. Vivona

vivona · December 2001

regfootball -- Welcome to the party. When my wife and I test drove new Diamantes recently, I had the opportunity to see a 2002 ES with Pearl White with Tan cloth and was impressed with how nice the tan interior looks in cloth.

My wife wanted woodgrain and leather, so she opted for a Silver LS with grey leather.

Three years ago, when I was looking for my 1999, I really preferred cloth but couldn't find a new Diamante with cloth. I also wanted woodgrain, but the cloth interior doesn't come with woodgrain. So what I was going to do was buy replacement woodgrain parts for the console and dash from the dealer's parts department and change them out. As I recall, it would have cost me about $200. I also considered doing the same thing with the doors, but the driver's door was expensive because you have to also change out the power switch assembly. As it turned out, since I couldn't find cloth, I went with a silver exterior with grey leather.

If you like woodgrain, you may want to consider doing the changeout. If so, removing the console and dash parts is tricky, but I have an article on how to do it:

http://www.geocities.com/diamanteowner/article1.htm

And remember to keep those wheel lug nuts properly torqued.

Mr. Vivona

ebrownrx7 · December 2001

There are many things to love about the Diamante but one item that I have never seen discussed is the full sized spare.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday I picked up a nail in the driver side rear tire. Needless to say, I was expecting to mount a "donut" to continue my journey. Imagine my surprise when I pulled up the trunk carpeting to see that full sized spare!!! Mitsubishi could have saved money with this detail; kudos to them for seeing the bigger picture!!!

ED

P.S. Another reason to keep those lugs properly torqued, you never know when you will have to remove them by hand!!!

otoluva · December 2001

Hello diamante crowd.I'm a new car shopper(coup or sedan)and after weeks of hard research I was totally sold on the all new nissan altima until the diamante came to the picture,diamante?I dont know why,so I went down to my local dealer to check it out and they had a few 01 n 02,took one for a test drive and it was love at first sight,impressive elegant looks, ample power and rich looking interior.I went back home to my desk to do some extensive research and was very disappointed, no reviews had kind things to say about it most notably transmission,long term reliability and cheap interior among other things,now I'm thinking to my self a $29000 car with reviews like that?whats going on here? I figured who's better to ask than actual owners.Any input will be appreciated.

timtran · December 2001

I own a 99 D and have put on 26,000 trouble-free miles. Only replaced front brake rotors at 21,000 miles for a mere $200.00 (aftermarket rotors) and 1/2 hour (self) labor. No brake vibration since, even when braking at 65 mph, 7% down-grade. When it comes to other people's opinions, they can only be used as a guide. Nothing more, nothing less. Pricewise, you can knock $5500.00-$6000.00 off '01 MSRP (at least, that is what they go for in the SF Bay Area). I would not hesitate buying it again for that kind of deal.

regfootball · December 2001

I just bought a lightly used Diamante...one of the cars I did consider was a new Altima. The Diamante in my opinion, even though its an older design is still superior to the Altima, up to a certain price point.

If you are like me and looking at lower price ranges, a lower priced Diamante ES can be had new or used for the price of a well equipped 4 cylinder Altima. Plus it will have as many or more features. The 6 cylinder Altima is more expensive at this comparison. The Altima 6 is faster, and has a newer look, but costs a bunch more than the 4. Either the ES or LS Diamante will compare well to the new Altima 6. Hare core performance drivers will be swayed by the extra power in the ALtima, yet, the Diamante is a much classier package overall.

Keep in mind the D can be had for many thousand off MSRP...the Altimas don't carry much discount yet.

Mr. Vivona...I think I will stay with the black dash panel for now...I actually like the simplicity of the black compared to fake wood but I guess if I did find a nice woodgrain kit from someplace like woodgraindash.com I may someday change it out....17" aluminum rims and better tires are my first upgrade when cash becomes available.

I must admit I'm impressed with the base ES factory stereo....so easy to use!!! I like the simple controls and the sound is darn good, much better than the sound of the "Mach" audio in my Taurus SHO. And I am pretty heavy into audio...i.e. I'm picky, but for factory this ain't bad! I can only imagine how much better the LS sound is with the extra speakers. Question....can I add the Mitsubishi in dash changer right to my current single disc setup, I have the open DIN slot for it.

Another question....premium gas, right? I haven't got all the way through the owners manual yet but I seem to recall D's needing premium. I certainly don't mind buying better gas, but sometimes my wife (who will be driving this car 80% of the time) will be doing most gas fill ups and she's so freaking cheap about it. I just tell her to shut up and put in the premium. I think she occasionally puts in the cheap stuff, but I'm of the opinion if I'm driving a nice car I can certainly ante up an extra dollar or so a fill for the right gas.

regfootball · December 2001

BTW, I have some nice digital photos I took of the new car, perhaps I should post one here or maybe send you a couple for your D.O.G. site?

regfootball · December 2001

http://www.geocities.com/regfootball/diamante-side.jpg

Gold101 · December 2001

Hi Everyone, I am now the super-proud owner of a 2002 Diamante LS in Platinum White. This car is awesome. I leased it as a replacement for my 1998 Dodge Intrepid ES, and man, is it 5 steps up! I also have a 2000 Acura TL, and it's great to have two wonderful cars. The engine on this Mitsu is just awesome, and the ride is even better than my '96 RL was. The interior feels 20k more expensive than it is! I bought my daughter a 2000 Eclipe GS(first one in NY state), and we were so impressed with the quality that a new Mitsu became a logical option to replace the Dodge. I'll definitely be posting pictures of my new car soon, but here are my impressions so far:
Engine: As I mentioned before, super-smooth. Great low end pull.
Ride: Second to none. Smooth, but controlled and poised.
Handling: A bit softer than my TL, but still excellent. A good balance between the softness of my old RL and the firmness of my TL
Steering: Awesome feel and precision. Light at low speeds, but firms up on the highway
interior: Ergonomics flawed compared to the Acura's, but still damn good. The materials are excellent, and build quality is in a dead heat with my Acura(meaning superb).
styling: Simply sensational! Dignified and substantial, but agressive at the same time. Really pretty.

For those who want to know, I'm paying 413/month, for 42 months and 15k a year. This includes all taxes and fees. A great deal!

Well, that's all for now. I look forward to chatting with my fellow owners of this wonderful machine.

Drive Happy!

regfootball · December 2001

congrats! Isn't it amazing how these Diamantes make those domestic brand generic sedans seem so....not quite as nice?

I'm wondering if platinum white is the same white as what I've got....is it kind of a pearlescent off white? Its a darn nice color.

otoluva · December 2001

Congrats on your new purchase,what cash price was the lease number based on and what did you put down?Enjoy,and happy holidays

Gold101 · December 2001

I put zero down on my lease. Again, I am paying 413/month 42 months, 15k/year. Clearly this is a great deal. The platinum white is a pearl white. This car is awesome.... So much better than the old Dodge....

Happy driving!

ccancio · December 2001

Did you haggle at all to get that deal, or was it set by the dealer???

-C-

otoluva · December 2001

Good question...

Gold101 · December 2001

All set by dealer. They are giving extremely good deals at this time.... This car can't be beat for the money.

regfootball · December 2001

I've enjoyed my Diamante so far.....but my wife took the car and I haven't got it back!!!!

I hope to log some time in it travelling over Christmas but even after one week I can already say its a nicer machine in pretty much every aspect than my Taurus SHO. The Taurus rides better (stiffer, less floaty) but the Diamante has better steering. The Diamante seems more refined all around. The Taurus has the nice v8 growl exhaust note....but the Diamante is quieter and the whole interior is more classy. The seats in the Taurus are nicer but the Diamante seats are excellent as well. The D is just so much tighter.

I love both cars but this Diamante so far is exceeding my expectations.

otoluva · December 2001

You said the 01 Diamantes go for 5500 to 6000 off msrp in sf,I checked with my local dealer here in Massachusetts and he actually laughed at me and said its impossible to get em for that price mitsubishi is not giving cars away!! Do you know of anyone who really bought one with that kind of discount?Cus for that price and the 0 financing 60 months it would be the deal of the century.

regfootball · December 2001

usually financing is in lieu of rebates....you usually never get the excellent financing and big discounts together.

I think think there is a large rebate right now on Diamantes, and that coupled with a generous dealer discount might enable a 5 grand knock off MSRP however, no way you are getting the zero percent then.

otoluva · December 2001

Thanks regfootball

regfootball · December 2001

I saw an ad in my local paper today advertising new Diamantes for 22.9.

That's about 4 grand off MSRP from what I can tell.

BTW, I got about 25 mpg on my first full tank full of gas. Not bad.

diamanteguy · December 2001

you may remember me saying they should make diamante's faster. i've got a 1993 diamante, green, loaded. the newer diamantes have 205 hp, i'm assuming because of DOHC. i have SOHC, but my car can go faster than many cars. so i guess they dont, but this is got me: how come mitsubishi never advertises diamantes? its there flagship model

regfootball · December 2001

I guess that's a real good question.

Just got back from xmas trip in the new (lightly used) D. I love this car! I used to like my 99 Taurus SHO but its gonna be hard getting back in that car after a week in the Diamante.

The ride on the interstate is great and the steering is so nice and light with good feel. Too bad that can of diet coke froze and exploded in the cabin sending frozen diet coke all over the place. What a mess. I still haven't adjusted to the seats yet, but I am pretty pleased with everything else. The car has nice power and kicks down quite well depending on at what rpm you mash the throttle down. I really like the gauges too.

Can anyone offer me advice on this topic, if I get 17" alum. wheels and wider tires (right now i have the 15" steel wheels and base tires), will I lose some of the nice lightness in the steering? I wouldn't mind a bit stiffer ride in town, but on the interstate its about right. Also, does anyone know of some good inexpensive suspension mods that will firm it up about 10% or so but stil be fairly compliant like it is now?

vivona · December 2001

diamanteguy--Diamantes are made in Australia. The capacity of the plant limits the amount of available Diamantes for export to America to about 20,000-25,000. The remaining capacity is for Australia and other countries. Currently, they import about 15,000 Diamantes to the US, with about 3,000 of them for rental fleets and 12,000 for sale. If they sell all 12,000 without advertising, all they could gain by advertising would be 10,000 more sales before running out of the capacity of the Australia plant. For advertising to have an effect, it can cost about $30 million. To spread the cost of $30 million over a new total of 20,000 US sales would add $1,500 in advertising costs per car. That is not economically feasible.

Mr. Vivona

otoluva · December 2001

Since the D is mitsub. flagship sedan I would invest in making more of them(after a major redesign)and go out to compete with it.It is a great car for under 30k.

mkc · December 2001

The power antenna failed this morning - it retracted about 3/4 of the way, then I heard a "rrr-rrr-rrr" coming from the antenna motor. Cycling the power just produces the noise but no movement, so time to have my dealer get a replacement for me. Anyone had this replaced recently so I know what cost to expect (parts and labor)?

Thanks,

Michelle

timtran · December 2001

It is usually caused by a broken cable (plastic.) If you are somewhat handy, it would cost about $50.00-$100.00 for the part, and 45 min-60 min to replace it.

vivona · December 2001

mkc -- Here is how to replace a broken antenna:

Buy a new antenna rod (cable is attached) from your dealer, or save about 25% and buy at wholesale from Mag Auto 1-800-229-1001. Mag Auto sells factory Mitsubishi parts for wholesale.

Unscrew the ring nut from around the base of the antenna. There is a special tool that engages the nut, but you can use long nose pliers at an angle into the grooves of the nut if you are careful to not scratch the nut. Or wrap the nut with masking tape and use pliers.

Pull out the old antenna and cable. Try turning on the radio to see if the broken part of the cable will come out. If not, you'll have to remove the trunk lining and remove the antenna power unit, remove the cover and take out the round part the cable winds around. Be careful that parts don't go everywhere -- you'll need to reassemble it all back the correct way. Take out the broken piece of antenna cable. Reassemble the unit and reinstall it in the trunk.

Turn the radio on and wait until the antenna power unit stops running. Push the new antenna cable into the antenna hole until it stops. Push the antenna rod itself into the hole until the outside portion bottoms out. Reinstall the nut and tighten it. Have someone turn off the radio so the power unit will actuate. While the power unit is running, push down and twist the top portion of the antenna until the cable engages and the antenna is pulled in by the motor. If the motor stops before the cable engages, turn the radio on, wait 10 seconds and then turn it back off and push and twist again. Watch your fingers, the antenna will move quickly.

Or, take it to the dealer and pay them to do the work.

Mr. Vivona

jpelder · December 2001

I know this may be a bit off topic, but I am not sure where else to post this.

I was recently told by a New car dealer that GM owns a controlling interest in Mitsubishi. He said he was certain of this, but I am a bit skeptical. This dealership sells Olds, Caddy and Subaru.

Is this true?

vivona · January 2002

GM has no ownership in Mitsubishi. Mitsubishi was recently partially bought by Diamler/Chrysler...about 34% as I recall.

You know better than believe anything a dealer tells you! :>)

Mr. Vivona

jpelder · January 2002

Thanks...that makes much more sense. I told the dealer I was aware of the close relationship between chrysler and Mitsubishi, but he swore that GM bought them.

Must be smoking something; I'm glad I didn't get my car from him.

pandboy · January 2002

Mr. Vivona:
I have been watching this board for quite while and like to have your oppinion on a 2001 Used Diamente with 14000 miles. The dealer asked for $18000. From edmunds' comments, it seems to me the model has some construction quality issue. I have tested the car today, it is beautiful. What do you think on the reliability? Many thanks in advance. The Boy

regfootball · January 2002

is it an ES or LS?

One month ago I purchased a rental return 2001 Diamante ES with 11000 miles on it for 15800. The car has been fine so far. Eighteen thousand would be a good deal on an LS but is too high for an ES. If you could get that car for 16,500-17,000 (assuming its an ES) then its probably a decent deal.

Its a very nice ride, I'd say go for it. Its got a 5/60 powertrain warranty and has many other features you will like. Go with your feelings....if you like the car buy it. The long term reliability of this style Diamante certainly is at least average to above average.....in other words.....its no Chrysler.

timtran · January 2002

Let you look at it this way: Mercedes-Benz, now Daimler-Chrysler, bought 34% of MItsubitshi Car Division, then recently increased its stake to 40%, thus having control of the company interests. Why would one of the best car makers in the world invest in Mitsubishi if it did not believe that Mitsu makes good cars? (For those who snicker at Huyndai, you may want to know that Daimler-Chrysler has 10% interest in the Korean car maker.)
Baby your car, change the oil regularly, keep up the maintenance and it will serve you well. regfootball is correct. 18 grand would be a deal only if it were an LS. Good luck.

pandboy · January 2002

The dealer also have a '01 ES, cost $15000 with 14K. I have a hard time to decide buy which one. The LS trim is so nice and luxury. Pandboy

regfootball · January 2002

either scenario seems good for you!

Go with it, and enjoy the ride!

vivona · January 2002

pandboy -- I wouldn't let Edmunds' comment on Diamante construction enter into your decision making. Their article was one of the worst comparison articles I have seen published. If you want, I can repost my detailed rebuttal.

Why did Edmunds say they had construction quality concerns? You won't believe it, but here it is -- the cover of the center console has dual hinges so it can be conveniently opened from either side -- the Edmunds testers tried to open it by pulling up strongly from the front, activating both latches at once -- this will take the cover off. Because the cover came off, rather than understanding that they misused the cover, they generalized the event as "questionable build quality". How the design of the cover can be generalized to the whole car is just plain stupid logic! They should be ashamed to publish such ignorance. When Consumer Reports received enough responses to list the Diamante's frequency of repair record, it was much better than average. Carpoint has reliability data that gives Diamante the highest rating. The Diamante has far fewer service bulletins and recalls than many other cars.

My Diamante is now three years old and it has been excellent. The build quality is outstanding. So is the new 2002 Diamante my wife has bought. We found nothing wrong. I have several friends that have taken Diamantes to well over 100,000 miles with no problems.

By the way, the console cover works perfectly on both of our Diamantes.

Mr. Vivona

otoluva · January 2002

the(lazy transmission)issue?I did notice it when I test drove the D,however the question is:will it escalate to serious malfunction or break down in the future?

regfootball · January 2002

mash the throttle to the floor. this should help it kick down. If you ease the rpm to about 3000, coast a bit and then just floor it, it should kick down fine. Over time your car will "learn" this behavior and should downshift more readily after that in normal driving....i should assume.

vivona · January 2002

otoluva -- There are no reliability reports or service bulletins that indicate a transmission failure problem. The transmission computer chooses shift points based on a pattern learned from driver behavior. In some cases a downshift to low above 30MPH is avoided to prevent a sudden racing of engine RPM. In my three years of driving my Diamante I never have had a problem with this in regular driving. It does seem to bother those that want to drive very agressively and jump from lane to lane where a sudden burst of power is needed. I find that the Diamante transmission provides nice seamless shifts with good communication between engine, transmission and driver an all but the most extreme of conditions.

If you are looking for a "hot rod" to race around in, you may be happier with a stick shift car or one with autostick. But if you want a pleasantly comfortable car that drives very easy, has very competent acceleration, nicely linear steering and brakes, and outstanding looks, go for the Diamante.

Mr. Vivona

ucsc · January 2002

Hi Mr. Vivona,

I have a question about idle rpm. I just had dealer replaced idle air control motor and cleaned throttle body. Now when I start my 92 D LS, rpm goes up to 2000rpm for couple seconds, then drops to 1100rpm. I change gear from Park to Reverse or Drive, then rpm drops to 900rpm. After I drive the car for a while, then idle rpm drops to around 800rpm. But my car used to idle around 800rpm when I started my car. Is my idle right?

Thanks!

UCSC

acw · January 2002

Hi Everyone,

I am considering a 98 Diamante and was looking for some constructive input. I can't afford a new one so i thought maybe a used one. The 98 Looks good to me...but i thought i'd ask first.....Thanks

lngtonge18 · January 2002

It's normal as long as the engine is cool-cold when this occurs. Both my old 93 D and my current 02 Lancer do the same thing.

Gold101 · January 2002

Hi guys, I thought I would give you my impressions with my 2002 Diamante after 1 month. My experience can be summed up quite simply: It rocks! The engine is smooth as silk, and, to my surprise, puts out a very good amount of power. It has a sensitive ride, but the handling is decent. The styling is gorgeous; I continue to get compliments on it every day.The paint(Platinum White) has excellent luster. The interior feels like it could be right out of a Lexus- it has beautiful leather and excellent materials. The stereo is much better than I thought it would be. It has less rear seat legroom than I thought it would have, but the rear is pretty comfortable. The assembly quality and attention to detail is astonishing; it's just as good as my Acura TL, as well as the RL and Legend's that came before. The Aussie's build a hell of a car. The only disappointment is the gas mileage. I've been averaging about 17 MPG. Also, the horn is terrible- such a weak sound! But seriously, these are only petty complaints. I leased this car because I was so impressed with the quality on my 2000 Eclipse. The Diamante exceeds my expectations.

Regards

ucsc · January 2002

Hi,

Thanks for your message. But I don't understand why idle drops from 1100rpm to 900rpm when I shift from Park to Reverse and engine is still cold?

Thanks!

UCSC

lngtonge18 · January 2002

The idle drops down because the engine is put under load when shifted out of park. The idle control motor isn't able to completely compensate for extra engine load (thats why the engine further drops down to 800 rpms once fully warmed up). It's the same effect as when you turn the steering wheel when parked. The extra load of the power steering pump makes the engine's idle drop slightly.

tcole3 · January 2002

I am looking at a 2001 Diamante LS Sedan 4D, it has 8,000 miles and is $18,500.00 I am also looking at a 2001 Mazda Millenium P Sedan 4D comparable in price and mileage. I tend to keep my cars about 7-8 years, put low mileage on them @10,000 miles per year and mostly city driving. I am looking for a car that will last and has a good warranty program. I keep the oil changed every 3,000 miles and follow all tune-up and check point schedules. I need easy maintenance and fairly good gas mileage. All opinions most helpful. Is the price good and how is the resale value?

otoluva · January 2002

It is nice to see this board active again,the diamante is one car I always keep an eye on,and (an ear)Although I have never owned one,but I know it is a matter of time before I put one in my garage regardless of what some auto experts say.
$18500 for 01 LS with 8k miles sounds pretty good considering the MSRP for a 02 is over $29000.

Mitsubishi Diamante

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