Segment:
Mid-size station wagon (performance variant of the Lancer platform).
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a practical yet performance-oriented family vehicle, tuners, and owners requiring in-depth maintenance and repair information.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Legacy Outback, Nissan Stagea, Toyota Caldina GT-T.
Design Philosophy:
Combines the practicality of a station wagon with the performance and drivetrain technology of Mitsubishi's performance sedans (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
Powertrain Options:
Available with potent V6 engines and advanced all-wheel-drive systems.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Sporty handling and performance capabilities within a versatile wagon body style, often featuring luxury appointments.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of all engine components, including timing belt, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions.
Transmission:
Coverage for Automatic Transmissions (e.g., INVECS-II Sport Mode) and Manual Transmissions, including diagnosis, fluid changes, clutch replacement, and internal component repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Super Select 4WD (SS4) systems, including driveshafts, differentials, CV joints, and transfer case.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear suspension. Includes components like springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power assisted steering system, including pump, rack and pinion, steering column, and tie rod ends. Diagnosis and repair procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS system, and parking brake. Component replacement and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnosis of charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, and ECU troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, frame straightening, and corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant charging, and climate control panel diagnosis.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system components, seat belt mechanisms, and associated sensors and control modules.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter service, tire rotation, and battery checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults across all vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for the removal, repair, and reinstallation of virtually all vehicle components and systems.
Rebuild:
Detailed overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major mechanical units.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) retrieval and interpretation, and sensor data analysis.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Procedures for setting ignition timing, idle speed, wheel alignment, and other critical adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Specifications:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, and other critical technical data.
Diagrams:
Abundant use of diagrams, illustrations, and exploded views to clarify procedures and component identification.
Engine Code:
6A13TT (2.5L V6 Twin-Turbo)
Engine Type:
SOHC V6 Twin-Turbocharged MIVEC
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 bhp; 206 kW) @ 6000 rpm (JDM Spec)
Torque:
343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (JDM Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) with twin turbochargers.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON or higher recommended).
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostics.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug or distributorless ignition system.
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled with thermostatically controlled fan.
Oil Type Spec:
Refer to manual; typically API SG/SH or higher, viscosity 10W-30 or 5W-40 recommended.
Timing Belt Interval:
Recommended replacement every 90,000 - 100,000 km or 5-6 years, but refer to manual for specific vehicle.
Type:
4-speed INVECS-II Sport Mode Automatic Transmission.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (less common).
All Wheel Drive:
Standard on most performance variants, often linked to Mitsubishi's Active Centre Differential (ACD) and Super Select 4WD (SS4) system.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond ATF SP-II M or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Crash Test Ratings:
Refer to official safety rating bodies (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for specific model year data. Generally expected to meet standards of its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCL) often available on higher trims or AWD models.
AWD System:
Advanced Super Select 4WD (SS4) and Active Centre Differential (ACD) on performance variants for enhanced traction and handling.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags may be optional or standard on certain trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones designed for occupant protection.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km or 6 months, but consult manual for specific oil and driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 km, replace as needed or every 30,000 km.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect annually, replace as needed or every 20,000 km.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 90,000 - 100,000 km (iridium or platinum plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km.
Brake Fluid:
Flush and replace every 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (with filter, for 6A13TT) - consult manual.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 liters (for 6A13TT) - consult manual.
Ignition Coils:
Premature failure of ignition coils can occur, leading to misfires.
Turbocharger:
Turbocharger seals can degrade over time, leading to oil leaks or reduced boost pressure. Regular oil changes are critical.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Tensioner bearing failure can lead to timing belt issues; recommended replacement with the belt.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings, particularly in the rear multi-link setup, can lead to knocking sounds and poor handling.
Automatic Transmission:
INVECS-II transmissions can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting if fluid is not maintained or if control solenoids wear.
Rust:
Like many vehicles of this era, check for rust in common areas like wheel arches, sills, and underbody, especially in regions with harsh winters.
