Vehicle Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Minivan
Key Competitors:
Toyota Ipsum/Picnic, Nissan Prairie, Honda Odyssey (early generations), Mazda MPV.
Body Style:
Two-box MPV design, prioritizing interior space and practicality.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a versatile, practical, and relatively affordable vehicle for daily use and leisure.
Reliability Perception:
Mitsubishi vehicles of this era were generally considered reliable, though some specific components might have known issues.
Region Of Origin:
Primarily Japanese Market (JDM)
Market Variants Covered:
Domestic Japanese models
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but consistent with full factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language:
Japanese (Typically, as it's a JDM vehicle. English versions are rare.)
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component identification, testing, specifications, and diagnostics for all engine variants.
Engine Management And Emissions:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, etc.).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (likely INVECS-II) overhaul, repair, adjustments, torque converter, drive shafts, differentials.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, power steering system repair.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, rotor specifications.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, power windows, central locking.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door/window mechanisms, interior trim removal, chassis specifications.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures.
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-I/OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and operating tolerances for all components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Typical:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC)
Engine Displacement Common:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower Typical:
Approx. 125-135 PS (92-100 kW; 123-133 hp) for 2.0L SOHC
Torque Typical:
Approx. 170-180 Nm (125-133 lb-ft) for 2.0L SOHC
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Typically around 60-70 Liters
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (INVECS-II Sport Mode)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (Less common)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Full-Time 4-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Atf Specification:
Likely Mitsubishi Diaqueen SP-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.
Crash Test Data:
Limited publicly available data for JDM models from this era in international standards like NHTSA/Euro NCAP.
ABS:
Available on higher trims, often optional.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory radio with AM/FM, cassette player, and possibly a CD changer slot. Speaker configuration varies by trim.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trims.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely factory-fitted for this era/model.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically factory-equipped; aftermarket solutions are common.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific grade).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Approx. 40,000-60,000 km for automatic transmission fluid.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000-40,000 km for standard spark plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Engine Oil Viscosity Common:
10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine:
Timing belt replacement is crucial (around 100,000 km). Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or front/rear main seals over time. Some models may experience oil consumption as they age.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission can develop rough shifting or slipping if fluid is not maintained. Early models of INVECS-II transmissions could be sensitive to fluid degradation.
Suspension:
Worn bushings and ball joints are common with age and mileage, leading to clunks or poor handling. Struts and shocks may require replacement.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, and HVAC blower motor issues can occur.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a division of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for a range of vehicles from passenger cars to off-roaders and commercial vehicles.
Nimbus Development:
The Nimbus was developed as Mitsubishi's entry into the burgeoning compact MPV segment, aiming to offer a practical and comfortable family vehicle.
Generation Transition:
The second generation (UA/UB/UC) represented a significant redesign over the first generation, with improved styling, packaging, and technology.
Production Years:
1990-2007 (across two generations)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
