🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer (Colt Lancer)

Generation Codes:

CJ, CK, CM (for Lancer generation covered by this manual range, often marketed as Colt in certain regions)

Production Years Covered:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996

👋 Introduction

Model History Overview:

The Mitsubishi Lancer (often sold as Colt Lancer in many markets) from the 1990s was a compact to subcompact car known for its reliability, sporty handling (especially in performance variants like the GSR and Evo predecessors), and practical design. It competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, and Ford Escort.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323, Ford Escort, Subaru Impreza.

Appeal To Enthusiasts:

This era of Lancer laid the groundwork for the iconic Lancer Evolution, making even standard models popular among tuners and DIY mechanics looking for a robust platform. The availability of various engine options, including fuel-efficient and more potent variants, catered to a broad audience.

Manual Value Proposition:

This is a factory-level workshop manual, providing the same depth of information used by authorized Mitsubishi dealerships. It's invaluable for anyone performing their own maintenance or repairs, saving significant costs and ensuring correct procedures are followed.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Markets:

Global (specific to models sold in these years, including markets where it was branded as Colt)

Model Variants Covered:

All 1992-1996 models, including sedans, hatchbacks, and potentially coupe variants depending on regional availability. Covers all trim levels and engine options within this period.

Estimated Page Count:

High volume, typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era and coverage.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of all engine variants (e.g., 4G92, 4G93, 4G63 in naturally aspirated and turbo variants where applicable).

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (MPI, GDI where applicable), ignition systems, emissions control systems, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnosis and testing.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (gearbox removal, overhaul, clutch replacement) and automatic transmission (hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, gearbox overhaul).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (if applicable) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, hubs.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, bushings), shock absorbers, springs.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses, fluid), manual steering, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, front disc brakes (calipers, rotors), rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, hinges, latches, chassis components, rust repair guidelines.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, central locking, cruise control, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, gauges.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and timing belt replacement (if applicable).

Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all wear items and major components.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection of components (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder walls), reassembly, and break-in procedures.

Transmission Rebuild:

Comprehensive guide to dismantling, inspecting, and rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake System Overhaul:

Procedures for brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, rotor replacement, and brake bleeding.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Detailed steps for replacing struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and wheel bearings.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Guidance on using multimeters, checking continuity, diagnosing shorts and open circuits, and interpreting wiring diagrams.

Bodywork And Interior:

Instructions for panel alignment, door adjustments, glass replacement, and interior trim removal/installation.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including testing of sensors, actuators, and electronic control units (ECUs) using diagnostic tools (OBD-I in this era).

Torque Specifications:

Extensive list of all critical torque specifications for fasteners across all vehicle systems.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specific engine bearing clearances, piston ring gap, valve lash, and other critical mechanical tolerances for engine rebuilds.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including color coding and connector pinouts.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for any specialized tools required for specific repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable (assuming it's a scanned and OCR'd document)

Print Quality Expectation:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type For Print:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type For Print:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engine Codes:

4G92 (1.6L SOHC/DOHC), 4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC, including turbo variants like 4G93T), 4G63 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC, including turbo variants like 4G63T).

Engine Configurations:

Inline 4-cylinder

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 80-100 HP (Naturally Aspirated 1.6L/1.8L), 120-140 HP (DOHC 1.6L/1.8L), 170-200+ HP (Turbocharged variants).

Torque Range:

Approx. 95-120 lb-ft (NA 1.6L/1.8L), 130-160 lb-ft (DOHC 1.6L/1.8L), 170-220+ lb-ft (Turbocharged variants).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). Some early or specific models might have carbureted variants, though less common in the later years of this range.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent for automatic), and gear oil type for manual transmissions (e.g., GL-4).

All Wheel Drive:

Available on certain performance models (e.g., related to early AWD systems that would evolve into the Lancer Evolution platform), typically with a viscous coupling center differential.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Varies by body style (Sedan: ~4300-4400 mm, Hatchback: ~4000-4100 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 1680-1700 mm

Overall Height:

Approx. 1390-1440 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1000-1250 kg, depending on engine, transmission, and body style.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to vehicle placard; typically around 1500-1700 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Likely tested by NHTSA and IIHS. Specific ratings vary by year and region. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its class and era, but modern safety standards are significantly higher.

ABS:

Available as an option or standard on higher trim levels, particularly on performance models. Features anti-lock braking system.

Traction Control:

Rarely available or standard on models from this period, may be found on some higher-performance variants.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard on most models from mid-90s onward. Passenger airbag an option or standard on higher trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point retractable seatbelts for front and rear occupants. Pretensioners may be present on front belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD players became more common later in this generation. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level. Basic heater and A/C systems.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels, an electronic speed control system.

Factory Options:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB as standard. Aftermarket head unit installation is common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.

Timing Belt Interval:

Crucial! For 4G63 and 4G93 DOHC engines, typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. The manual will specify the exact interval.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 for most ambient temperatures. Check manual for exact specification based on engine and climate.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for Mitsubishi specific recommendation (e.g., green or long-life coolant).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Wear Items:

CV joints, wheel bearings, exhaust system corrosion, clutch wear (manual transmissions), suspension bushings, radiator hoses, and alternator brushes can be common wear items.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Turbocharged models (e.g., 4G63T, 4G93T) require diligent oil changes and attention to cooling system health to prevent turbocharger damage. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are also common with age.

Transmission Issues:

Manual transmissions can experience worn synchros, leading to difficult shifting. Automatic transmissions may develop solenoid issues or hydraulic leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Automotive History:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, originating from a shipbuilding company. They became known for robust, durable vehicles, often with a sporting edge, particularly with their rally heritage.

Lancer Lineage:

The Lancer nameplate dates back to 1973. The 1992-1996 models represent the sixth generation of the Lancer (Lancer Cedia platform in Japan, often known as Colt Lancer elsewhere). This generation was a significant redesign and provided the basis for the legendary Lancer Evolution models (Evo IV, V, VI were based on this chassis).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors. Assembly may have occurred in other countries under license or as CKD kits.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

Specific awards for the Lancer model from 1992-1996 are less prominent than its rally-bred successors. However, the platform was well-regarded for its chassis balance and potential for performance tuning.

Reliability Rankings:

Generally considered reliable for its era, though maintenance history plays a significant role. Consumer Reports and similar publications would have provided ratings for models sold in specific markets.