Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking detailed repair information.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza
Strengths:
Affordability, sporty handling (especially OZ Rally and Evolution models), good reliability for the price point, available AWD on Evolution models.
Evolution Variants:
The Lancer Evolution (Evo) models are significantly different performance vehicles, featuring turbocharged engines, AWD, and advanced aerodynamics, all covered in this comprehensive manual.
Engine:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC, 2.4L 4G64 SOHC, 2.0L 4G63T DOHC Turbocharged (Evolution)
Transmission:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic, 6-speed Manual (Evolution)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD - Evolution)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson Struts, Rear: Multi-link independent (standard), Multi-link independent with Bilstein dampers (Evolution)
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Discs (Solid or Ventilated depending on trim), ABS, EBD
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion
Electrical System:
12V Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Immobilizer
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Structural Components
HVAC System:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Ventilation, Climate Control
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Lines, Fuel Filter
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses, Fan
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Changes, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Head Gasket Replacement, Piston and Connecting Rod Service, Valve Train Adjustment, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Transmission Rebuild (Manual & Auto), Torque Converter Service, Gearbox Inspection
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Caliper Service, Bleeding Procedures, ABS System Diagnostics and Repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock Absorber/Strut Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Ball Joint and Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump and Rack Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting wiring diagrams, Component testing, Sensor diagnostics, ECM/PCM diagnosis, Starter and alternator testing
Bodywork And Collision Repair:
Panel replacement, Door adjustment, Bumper repair, Glass replacement procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Fault code interpretation
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical schematics for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostic procedures, component-level repairs, and complete system overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes information on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and recommended procedures using scan tools.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all critical fasteners, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Electrical system parameters.
Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 120-135 hp (varies by market/trim)
Torque 1:
Approx. 130-140 lb-ft (varies by market/trim)
Displacement 2:
2.4 Liters (2351cc)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 160 hp (varies by market/trim)
Torque 2:
Approx. 160-165 lb-ft (varies by market/trim)
Engine Code 3:
4G63T DOHC Turbocharged
Displacement 3:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Horsepower 3:
Approx. 271-286 hp (depending on Evo generation covered)
Torque 3:
Approx. 280-290 lb-ft (depending on Evo generation covered)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (Non-turbo), 91+ Octane Unleaded (Evolution)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years (using appropriate coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (check specific type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (manual & auto, consult manual for specific intervals and fluid types).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher, consult manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 quarts (4.3 - 4.7 liters) with filter change (for 2.0L/2.4L engines).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (for standard manual), specific Mitsubishi fluid for 6-speed.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent Dexron III/VI compatible fluid.
Engine Common Issues:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential for carbon buildup in intake manifold on higher mileage units, timing belt replacement interval is critical for non-interference engines (check manual).
Transmission Common Issues:
Clutch wear on manual transmissions, occasional hard shifting in automatic transmissions.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn sway bar links, strut mounts, and ball joints can cause noise and affect handling.
Electrical Common Issues:
Window regulator failures, intermittent power to accessories, dashboard warning light issues.
