Segment:
Compact car, subcompact car
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, repair shops
Key Competitors 1996:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort
Reliability:
Known for good reliability when properly maintained
Handling:
Often praised for its sporty handling and agile chassis
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of features, performance, and affordability
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch replacement, gear shift linkage adjustments
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, wheel alignment, power steering system, steering rack/box
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting system, fuses, relays, ECUs, diagnostic codes
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, seats, glass, frame repair, rust prevention
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant servicing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems, symptom analysis, fault finding procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuild Reconditioning:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and component reconditioning
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I), engine control module (ECM) testing, sensor testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and component-level repair.
Engine Displacement Liters:
1.3L, 1.5L, 1.8L
Engine Code Examples:
4G13 (1.3L), 4G92 (1.5L SOHC/DOHC), 4G93 (1.8L)
Horsepower Range:
75-140 hp (approximate, depending on engine variant)
Torque Range:
100-160 Nm (approximate, depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Carburetor (less common in later models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or 5-7 years, refer to manual for specific interval.
Spark Plug Type Example:
NGK BPR6ES or equivalent
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent
Crash Test Information:
Limited official crash test data for this specific year/model from agencies like NHTSA/IIHS for the US market, though generally considered safe for its class.
ABS Availability:
Optional on some higher trims
Airbags Availability:
Driver airbag standard on most models, passenger airbag optional or unavailable
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats on some models
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell construction
Audio System Type:
Factory fitted AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player
Speaker Configuration Example:
2 or 4 speaker system
Cruise Control Availability:
Optional on higher trim levels
Aux Input Availability:
Not available from factory
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter Availability:
Not typically equipped on base models of this era.
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most climates.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Prestone Long Life or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket leaks are common with age.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to steering looseness and noise.
Exhaust Rust:
Exhaust system components can be susceptible to rust, especially in areas with road salt.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Mitsubishi Motors Founding:
1970
Lancer Generation:
Fifth Generation (CB/CC/CD chassis, 1991-1996 for Lancer Sedan, though Colt Lancer designation can vary by market)
Colt Badge Usage:
Mitsubishi Colt was a popular badge for Mitsubishi's smaller vehicles in many global markets, often sold as the Lancer in others.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Australia, and other global assembly plants
Production Years For Generation
Generation Production Dates:
1991-1996 (for the chassis generation this manual likely covers)
