🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

3000GT

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

Z16A

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1996 Mitsubishi 3000GT (GTO in Japan) was a flagship sports coupe, competing with established players like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Mazda RX-7. It was known for its advanced technology and stylish design.

Competitors:

Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Porsche 968.

Aerodynamics:

Active aerodynamic elements, including a front air dam that adjusted at higher speeds (on certain models).

Handling:

Sophisticated multi-link suspension, optional Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) and Active Aerodynamics.

Performance:

Available with naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, and features like All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and All-Wheel Steering (AWS/4WS).

Target Audience:

Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, and performance tuning shops.

Unique Selling Point:

Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, crucial for maintaining and repairing complex systems like AWD, 4WS, and twin-turbocharged engines.

📋 Manual Details

Service Scope:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and restoration

Estimated Pages:

Refer to individual sections for estimated detail. Full factory manuals are typically extensive, often 1000+ pages.

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust systems.

Drivetrain:

Clutch, manual transaxle, automatic transaxle, propeller shaft, front axle, rear axle, wheel and tire specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension, rear suspension, electronic control suspension (ECS), steering system, 4-wheel steering system (4WS).

Brakes:

Service brakes (including ABS if equipped), parking brakes.

Body Chassis:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, and structural components.

HVAC:

Heater, air conditioner, ventilation systems.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring schematics, ignition system, lighting, gauges, power accessories, and control modules.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, and corrective actions.

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component repair, overhaul, and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and information for all major systems.

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows and MAC OS

Reader Requirement:

Adobe Acrobat Reader

Printability:

Yes

Binding:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

6G72 (V6 SOHC and DOHC Twin-Turbo variants)

Displacement Cc:

2972 cc

Configuration:

60-degree V6

Valvetrain:

SOHC 24-valve (non-turbo) and DOHC 24-valve Twin-Turbo (e.g., VR-4 model).

Horsepower Non Turbo:

Approx. 222 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Non Turbo:

Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower Twin Turbo:

Approx. 300 hp @ 6000 rpm (for VR-4 models)

Torque Twin Turbo:

Approx. 307 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for VR-4 models)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fans.

Oil Type Recommendation:

Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate and OEM specs).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (on most models)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (with sport mode)

AWD System:

Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential on twin-turbo models.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent for automatic) and manual transmission fluid (MTF) specifications.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 178.0 inches (4520 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.5 inches (1815 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.2 inches (2470 mm)

Curb Weight Non Turbo:

Approx. 3400-3500 lbs (1540-1590 kg)

Curb Weight Twin Turbo:

Approx. 3700-3800 lbs (1680-1725 kg)

Cargo Volume:

Limited, typical for a sports coupe.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1996 models may vary; refer to official archives. Typically, vehicles of this era focused on passive safety features.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models, standard on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) often paired with the AWD system on twin-turbo models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio systems (e.g., Mitsubishi/Infinity), often with CD player or cassette.

Electronic Control Suspension:

ECS allows driver selection of suspension damping modes (e.g., Comfort, Normal, Sport).

Four Wheel Steering:

AWS/4WS system enhances low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability by steering the rear wheels.

Diagnostics Ports:

OBD-I or OBD-II compliant diagnostic port for engine and system scanning (depending on final production specifications for the year).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact factory recommendation.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Timing belt replacement typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years due to interference engine design. Failure leads to catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system requirements. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type (likely ATF or dedicated power steering fluid).

Common Problems:

ECU capacitor failure (leading to various electronic gremlins), active aero system malfunctions, AWD system maintenance, timing belt issues, oil leaks from front seals, catalytic converter failure (especially on high-mileage turbo models).

Turbo Specific Maintenance:

Regular oil changes with high-quality oil are critical for turbo longevity. Turbo oil feed and return lines should be inspected for blockages.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history of performance and innovation, including rally racing success with the Lancer Evolution, which informed some of the 3000GT's technology.

Generation:

This manual covers the second generation (1994-1998) of the 3000GT, which received significant styling updates including fixed headlights (replacing the pop-ups from the first generation) and improved aerodynamics.

Production Years:

1990-2000 (Globally)

Assembly Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

Frequently praised for its advanced technology, powerful twin-turbo engine, and sophisticated AWD/4WS systems. Often cited as a benchmark in Japanese sports car engineering of its era.