Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (belt/chain), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (injection/carburetion), exhaust system.
Engine Performance:
Engine management system (ECU), ignition system, emission controls, turbocharging (if applicable), diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, shift linkage, final drive, bearings, seals.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU), fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, CV joints, hub bearings.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (independent or torsion beam depending on model), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, power steering system, steering rack, column, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules (BCM), ignition switch.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, bumpers, interior trim, seat mechanisms, frame straightening, rust repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, control panel.
Restraints:
Airbag system components, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warnings, seat belts.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake system inspection, suspension checks, tire rotation and balancing.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms and issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation for engine and ABS systems.
Component Repair And Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling major and minor components across all systems.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners (engine components, suspension, brakes, etc.).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including color codes and pinouts.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., MUT-II or similar) and general OBD-II scanning for relevant models/years.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to the manual for specific recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item for interference engines. Interval typically 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Consult manual for precise interval for specific engine codes (e.g., 4G92 DOHC).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by plug type (copper, platinum, iridium), generally 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual. Typically API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity often 5W-30 or 10W-30.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., green conventional).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system requirements. Manual is definitive.
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, suspension bushings, clutch wear (manual transmissions), exhaust system components, aging rubber hoses and seals.
Engine Specific Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), potential for timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (interference engines), minor electrical glitches (e.g., power window regulators).
Transmission Issues:
Clutch wear, automatic transmission solenoid issues or torque converter wear in high mileage vehicles.
Mitsubishi Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its engineering and diverse product lines, including passenger cars, SUVs, and performance vehicles.
Fifth Gen Intro:
The fifth generation Mirage (and its North American counterpart, the Dodge Colt/Eagle Summit) debuted in 1991 for the 1992 model year, continuing the tradition of economical and practical transportation.
Design Changes:
Significant styling updates occurred throughout the generation, with a notable facelift for the 1996 model year (often referred to as the 'facelifted' version), featuring revised front and rear fascias, headlights, and interior enhancements.
Production Period:
1990-2000 (covering the latter half of the fourth generation and the entirety of the fifth generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with production and assembly also occurring in other global locations through partnerships.
