🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

3000GT

Model Code:

Z16A (base), Z15A (VR-4)

Generation:

First Generation (1990-1999)

Year Range:

1992-1996

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi 3000GT (also known as GTO in Japan) was a flagship grand tourer sports car designed to compete with European performance coupes like the Porsche 964 and Nissan 300ZX. It was known for its advanced technology and exotic styling.

Competitors:

Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Porsche 964, Chevrolet Corvette (C4).

Key Features:

Available with naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) and four-wheel steering (4WS) on VR-4 models, advanced active aerodynamics (Active Aero System on some early models), sophisticated suspension systems.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Engine Cooling, Intake and Exhaust, Engine and Emission Control, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Propeller Shaft, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Wheel and Tire, Brake, Steering, Suspension, Body, Frame, Heating and Air Conditioning, Electrical System, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Approximately 2500+ pages (estimated for complete factory service information)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, valve train, lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter, oil pan.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Engine Cooling:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, cooling fan, coolant reservoir, temperature sensors.

Intake Exhaust:

Intake manifold, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, EGR system.

Engine Emission Control:

OBD-I diagnostic system, oxygen sensors, PCV valve, secondary air injection system (where applicable).

Clutch Manual:

Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, slave cylinder, master cylinder, clutch pedal assembly, clutch fluid.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transaxle disassembly and assembly, gear ratios, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications, repair of internal components.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transaxle disassembly and assembly, torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid specifications, electronic control unit (ECU) for transmission, repair of internal components.

Drivetrain AWD:

Viscous coupling unit (VCU) for AWD models, transfer case, differential components, propeller shaft, CV joints, wheel hubs.

Brake System:

Brake disc, brake pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake lines, parking brake.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, control arms, ball joints, strut assemblies, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Wheel Tire:

Wheel specifications, tire sizes, wheel alignment procedures, balancing, lug nut torque specifications.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, fenders, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

Body Interior:

Interior trim panels, dashboard removal, seats, carpets, headliner, airbag system components (locations, precautions).

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control panel, refrigerant type and charge, system diagnostics.

Electrical Overview:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring harness routing, grounds.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types and replacement procedures.

Instrument Panel:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge.

Audio Visual:

Factory radio, speakers, antenna system, wiring for audio components.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control system, sunroof operation.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.

Engine Repair:

Engine tune-up, cylinder head removal/installation, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain replacement, oil seal replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, torque converter replacement, gearset repair, shift fork replacement.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, brake line replacement, ABS system bleeding and diagnostics.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, strut/shock absorber replacement, control arm bushing replacement, steering rack repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing (sensors, actuators), circuit tracing, diagnosing electrical faults.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant recharge, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core replacement.

Bodywork Repair:

Door alignment, panel replacement, rust repair techniques (general guidance), glass replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, including disassembly, reassembly, specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution for clear text and diagrams (typical for factory manuals).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

6G72

Engine Type Na:

3.0L SOHC V6 (24-valve)

Engine Code Tt:

6G72TT

Engine Type Tt:

3.0L DOHC V6 Twin-Turbocharged (24-valve)

Horsepower Na:

Approximately 222 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Na:

Approximately 205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower Tt:

Approximately 300 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Tt:

Approximately 307 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended, especially for TT models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Na:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Tt:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag) on VR-4 models

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (with electronic control)

Transmission Type Tt Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (with electronic control) on VR-4 models

AWD System:

Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Transfer Clutch (ATC) on VR-4 models.

4Ws System:

Available Four-Wheel Steering (4WS) on VR-4 models, providing enhanced maneuverability.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.7 inches (4539 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

46.5 inches (1181 mm)

Wheelbase:

97.2 inches (2469 mm)

Curb Weight Na:

Approximately 3461 lbs (1570 kg) for base models

Curb Weight Tt AWD:

Approximately 3792 lbs (1720 kg) for VR-4 models

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Impact 1992:

4/5 Stars (Frontal Impact)

IIHS Ratings Period:

Not rated by IIHS for this period.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on VR-4 models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Basic analog controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, Traction Control (on VR-4), Four-Wheel Steering (on VR-4), Cruise Control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic audio system connectivity. No modern Bluetooth or USB integration from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for the 6G72 and 6G72TT engines (critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (iridium or platinum plugs recommended).

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended. Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DIANAMIX Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil recommended.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent ATF. Capacity: 3.6 US quarts (3.4 L) for fluid change, 8.3 US quarts (7.9 L) for overhaul.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron II ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.

Timing Belt Failure:

Critical component. Failure leads to severe engine damage due to piston-valve interference. Regular replacement is essential.

ECU Issues:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) can be prone to capacitor failure over time, leading to various drivability issues.

Active Aero Failure:

Early models' active aerodynamic components (pop-up spoiler, adjustable front lip) can fail due to motor or linkage issues.

Aws Issues:

The Active Four-Wheel Steering (4WS) system's rear-wheel steering rack and components can experience wear and leaks.

Clutch Wear:

Wear on clutch components is common with age and mileage, especially in performance driving. Clutch pedal assembly can also develop issues.

Turbocharger Issues Tt:

Twin-turbocharged models can experience turbocharger seal leaks, wastegate issues, or intercooler leaks if not properly maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a history of producing innovative and performance-oriented vehicles, including rally cars and sports coupes. The 3000GT was a significant model in their push towards a global, premium image.

Model Evolution Early:

Launched in 1990 (as a 1991 model in North America), initially featuring advanced technology like 4WS and Active Aero. The VR-4 model was the performance flagship.

Model Evolution Mid Cycle:

Facelifted for the 1994 model year with revised styling (fixed headlights, updated body kit), improved aerodynamics, and increased power for the twin-turbo engine. The Active Aero system was removed in favor of a more conventional rear spoiler.

Production Period:

1990-2000 (Global), 1991-1996 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1991 and 1992.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year Contender:

Considered a strong contender for various automotive awards during its production run due to its technological advancements.