Model Variant:
Lancer Sportback, Lancer Evolution
Chassis Codes:
CS/CT (Lancer), CT9A (Lancer Evolution VIII)
Engine Codes:
4G63 (Evolution), 4G93, 4G94 (Standard Lancer)
Market Segment:
Compact to compact performance sedan/hatchback. The Lancer offered a range from economical transportation to a high-performance rally homologation special (Evolution).
Competitors:
Standard Lancer: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3. Lancer Evolution: Subaru Impreza WRX/STI, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R.
Performance Variant:
The Lancer Evolution VIII is renowned for its rally-bred technology, including advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, turbocharged engines, and performance-tuned suspensions, offering exceptional handling and acceleration.
Versatility:
The availability of the Sportback variant offered a more practical, hatchback body style, broadening the Lancer's appeal beyond traditional sedans.
Coverage Scope:
All model and all engine types for the 2004 model year.
Estimated Pages:
Extensive; likely over 1500 pages based on typical factory service manuals for this era and scope.
Manual Type:
Original Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely a digital format (PDF) or a multi-volume printed set.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (4G63, 4G93, 4G94), engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain components (differentials, driveshafts, axles).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS for applicable models), wheels and tires, body structure.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, starting system, charging system, instrument panel, power accessories, HVAC controls, audio system, body control module (BCM).
Body & Trim:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, locks, security system, bumpers.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause analysis, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), and diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical issues.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Digital Format:
Likely searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
Original factory quality, typically high-resolution with clear diagrams and schematics.
Binding:
If printed, likely a durable, multi-volume comb or spiral binding for ease of use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
If printed, on sturdy, perhaps coated paper to withstand workshop use.
Lancer Engine 1:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC MPI Inline-4 (Standard Lancer, e.g., ES, OZ Rally)
Lancer Engine 2:
2.4L 4G94 DOHC MPI Inline-4 (Standard Lancer, e.g., LS, GTS)
Lancer Evolution Engine:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4 (Lancer Evolution VIII)
Horsepower 4G94:
Approximately 160 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 4G94:
Approximately 150 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Horsepower 4G63 Evoviii:
Approximately 271 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque 4G63 Evoviii:
Approximately 273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery Standard:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery Evolution:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with a high-flow fuel pump and intercooler.
Evoviii Technology:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control), twin-scroll turbocharger, intercooler, cast-iron engine block, forged crankshaft and connecting rods.
Transmission Type Lancer:
5-speed manual transmission. Optional 4-speed automatic transmission on some trims.
Transmission Type Evolution:
6-speed manual transmission (Getrag G5M-SS5-2).
AWD System:
Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) system for advanced torque vectoring and handling.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specifications based on transmission type. Typically SAE 75W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-SP III or equivalent.
Length:
Approx. 176.4 inches
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.7 inches
Exterior Lancer Evolutionviii
Length:
Approx. 170.9 inches
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches
Wheelbase Lancer:
Approx. 103.0 inches
Wheelbase Evolutionviii:
Approx. 104.3 inches
Curb Weight Lancer:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs depending on trim and equipment.
Curb Weight Evolutionviii:
Approx. 3300-3400 lbs.
Trunk Capacity Sedan:
Approx. 13.6 cu ft.
Cargo Capacity Sportback:
Significantly more than sedan due to hatchback design; specific figure varies.
Frontal Crash Rating 2004 Lancer:
Good (for Lancer sedan models). Not rated for Evolution.
Frontal Offset Rating 2004 Lancer:
Acceptable (for Lancer sedan models). Not rated for Evolution.
ABS:
Standard on Evolution VIII, optional or standard on higher trims of Lancer.
Traction Control:
Standard on Evolution VIII (integrated with AWD system). Optional on some Lancer models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags were optional on some Lancer models and standard on Evolution.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Factory standard CD player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims may feature upgraded speaker systems or an optional Rockford Fosgate system. Aux input or USB was uncommon for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Available on most Lancer and Evolution models.
Keyless Entry:
Available on most Lancer and Evolution models.
HVAC System:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level. The manual covers operation and basic service.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Oil Filter Part Number Example:
MD095938 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
MR235721 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
MR500650 (or equivalent aftermarket).
Coolant Capacity Lancer 2.4L:
Approx. 6.4 quarts (6.1 L).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issue Lancer Sludge:
Early 4G6x engines (though less common on later models like the 2004) could be prone to oil sludge if maintenance is neglected. Regular oil changes are crucial.
Common Issue Evolution Clutch:
The Evolution's high-performance clutch can wear faster under aggressive driving conditions.
Common Issue Evolution Ayc Pump:
The AYC pump can occasionally fail, leading to error lights and loss of the AYC system functionality.
Common Issue General Electrical:
Minor electrical gremlins can occur with age, particularly with window regulators and power locks.
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, with roots dating back to 1917. Known for robust engineering and innovative technologies, particularly in AWD systems and performance vehicles.
Lancer Generation:
The 2004 model year falls within the 8th generation of the Mitsubishi Lancer (CY/CZ chassis, 2000-2007). The Lancer Evolution VIII (CT9A chassis) is a distinct performance variant based on this generation.
Lancer Evolution Development:
The Lancer Evolution was developed to homologate the Lancer for Group A racing in the World Rally Championship (WRC). It quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional performance and technological advancements.
Production Location:
Japan.
Lancer Evolution Reputation:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, acceleration, and performance-to-price ratio. Often cited as a benchmark in the affordable performance car segment.
Lancer General Reputation:
The standard Lancer was generally regarded as a reliable and practical compact car with a sporty option in the Evolution variant.
