Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, piston and connecting rod, crankshaft and main bearings, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems.
Engine Performance:
Engine management system (ECU), ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control system, turbocharger (if applicable to specific models).
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair for all gears and components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission internal components, hydraulic control system, torque converter, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnosis and repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, front differential, rear differential (if applicable), transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs), wheel bearings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and components, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rods, steering wheel.
Electrical Power:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor).
Electrical Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb specifications.
Electrical Instruments:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, indicators, odometer, trip computer.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, mirrors, exterior trim, corrosion protection.
Body Interior:
Seating systems, dashboard, interior trim panels, door panels, carpets, headliner, climate control system components (HVAC).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, airflow control.
Safety Restraint:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, seat belt pretensioners, impact sensors, airbag control module.
Electrical Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), transmission control module (TCM), sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, oxygen, MAF, MAP, throttle position), actuators (injectors, ignition coils).
Electrical Chassis Control:
ABS module, traction control system (TCS), electronic stability control (ESC - if equipped), power steering control module.
Body Control Module:
Body Control Module (BCM) functions, door locks, power windows, interior and exterior lighting control, horn, wiper systems.
Infotainment:
Audio system, radio, CD player, navigation system (if equipped), speaker layout and replacement.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation and inspection, brake checks, battery maintenance, belt inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and interpretation.
Engine Repair:
Engine removal and installation, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service, oil pump replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission fluid and filter replacement, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter replacement (automatic), valve body diagnosis and repair.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake bleeding procedures, ABS sensor replacement, master cylinder replacement.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering rack replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, component testing (sensors, actuators), diagnosis of EC/TCU/BCM related issues.
Body Repair:
Door panel removal and installation, window regulator replacement, mirror replacement, bumper cover repair/replacement, door lock actuator replacement.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant evacuation and recharging, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, cabin air filter replacement, AC compressor replacement.
Safety System Service:
Airbag module replacement, seat belt replacement, SRS system diagnostic procedures, seat belt pretensioner replacement.
Wheel Tire Service:
Wheel alignment procedures and specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) service, wheel hub replacement.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork procedures).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles / 12,000 km with synthetic oil and specific filter - consult manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs (check vehicle specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with a timing belt, typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km). Check if the 2008 1.8L uses a belt or chain.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, API SM or higher (check owner's manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change for 1.8L engine.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC), a pink ethylene glycol-based coolant, or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 6.4 US quarts (6.1 liters) for models with manual transmission.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check owner's manual for exact specification).
Common Issues:
Occasional reports of premature wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), AC compressor failures, and some electrical glitches (e.g., power window motors). CVT transmission issues on certain models are also documented.