🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Mirage

Model Generations Covered:

Fourth Generation (1987-1992, specific models may overlap), Fifth Generation (1991-1996), Sixth Generation (1995-2002, specific models may overlap)

Model Years Covered:

1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Chassis Codes Potentially Covered:

A150 (late models), C50, C60, C70, CJ0, CK0, CL0

Engine Codes Potentially Covered:

4G13, 4G15, 4G91, 4G92, 4G93

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Mirage of this era was positioned as an economical and practical subcompact car, targeting budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation. It competed in a segment with strong contenders like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Nissan Sentra.

Competitive Analysis:

The Mirage often offered a good balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and decent styling for its class. While it might not have always matched the refinement or performance of some rivals, it provided a solid value proposition, especially with its accessible pricing and respectable reliability.

Key Features:

Fuel-efficient engines, nimble handling, compact dimensions for urban driving, practical hatchback and sedan body styles, generally affordable maintenance and parts. Some higher trims offered power accessories and improved interior appointments.

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners who want to understand and maintain their Mitsubishi Mirage from 1990 to 2000.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Regions Of Coverage:

Global (with emphasis on markets where Mirage was prevalent, including North America, Europe, Asia)

Body Styles Covered:

Hatchback (3-door, 5-door), Sedan (4-door), Coupe (GTO/3000GT, though less common for Mirage nameplate in some markets, may have cross-over information)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft), fuel injection systems (MPI, TBI), ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, emissions control systems (EGR, catalytic converter, evaporative emission control), engine diagnostics and troubleshooting, timing belt/chain replacement, motor mounts, performance tuning basics.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, shifting mechanisms), automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, solenoids), transmission control modules, gear ratios, fluid capacities and specifications, troubleshooting, repair procedures, axle shaft removal/installation, CV joints.

Brakes And Suspension:

Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures, parking brake system, power assist systems. Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bars), rear suspension (independent, torsion beam depending on model), shock absorbers/struts, wheel bearings, steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), alignment specifications.

Electrical And Body:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, dashboard instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, HVAC system controls, wiper system, horn. Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection, paint and finishing information.

Powertrain Control Module PCM And Sensors:

Diagnosis and repair of engine sensors (e.g., O2, MAF, MAP, TPS, Crankshaft Position), ignition coils, fuel injectors, and the PCM itself. Includes procedures for checking sensor readings and basic diagnostic workflows.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter replacement, muffler and pipe repair/replacement, oxygen sensor replacement, exhaust manifold inspection and repair.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance intervals (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, timing belt), fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacement (air, oil, fuel), brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation and balancing.

Repair And Diagnostic Procedures:

Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, suspension and steering component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, HVAC system troubleshooting, bodywork repair, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and interpretation, common fault finding and solutions.

Engine Tuning And Adjustment:

Idle speed adjustment, ignition timing adjustment (on models with distributors), fuel mixture adjustments (on older carbureted or early EFI systems).

Suspension Component Replacement:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, sway bar links, strut/shock absorber replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Brake System Overhaul:

Caliper rebuild or replacement, rotor resurfacing or replacement, brake pad replacement, drum brake shoe replacement, master cylinder replacement, brake line bleeding, parking brake adjustment.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs:

Listing of common DTCs and their corresponding symptoms and potential causes. Procedures for retrieving codes using OBD-I or early OBD-II scanners.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and complete repair/overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and diagrams.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Basic hand tools, torque wrench, multimeter, diagnostic scan tool (OBD-I or OBD-II depending on model year), specialized tools for specific tasks (e.g., ball joint separator, spring compressor).

Schematics And Diagrams:

Detailed wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, exploded view diagrams for component identification and assembly, torque specifications for virtually all fasteners.

Cooling System Coverage:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core replacement and testing, flushing procedures, fan operation and diagnosis.

Lubrication System Coverage:

Oil pan removal/installation, oil pump operation, oil filter and oil cooler servicing (if equipped), lubrication point identification.

Steering System Coverage:

Power steering pump, reservoir, hoses, steering rack, tie rods, steering column components. Includes fluid checks, bleeding procedures, and alignment adjustment information.

Body Control Modules Coverage:

Diagnosis and repair of power door locks, power windows, central locking systems, keyless entry (if equipped), interior and exterior lighting controls, horn operation.

HVAC Coverage:

Component identification, refrigerant handling basics (though likely not detailed EPA procedures), blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, A/C compressor, cycling switch diagnosis and replacement.

Wheel And Tire Coverage:

Tire pressure recommendations, recommended tire sizes, wheel bolt patterns (e.g., 4x114.3 mm for many models), lug nut torque specifications, wheel bearing replacement.

Body And Frame Coverage:

Panel alignment, dent repair basics, rust prevention and repair, glass replacement (windshield, side glass, rear glass), door and panel trim removal and installation, bumper service.

Chassis Electrical Coverage:

Complete wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, fuse box layouts and identification, relay functions, lighting circuits, horn circuit, wiper circuit, power accessory circuits.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically, for digitally sourced PDFs)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engine Variants:

1.5L SOHC Inline-4 (4G15), 1.3L SOHC Inline-4 (4G13), 1.8L DOHC Inline-4 (4G93 - often in higher trims or performance variants like the Mirage Cyborg/RS), 1.6L DOHC Inline-4 (4G92).

Typical Horsepower Range:

60-115 HP (depending on engine displacement and tune, e.g., 4G15 typically 88-100 HP, 4G93 DOHC ~120-130 HP for some versions).

Typical Torque Range:

70-100 lb-ft (depending on engine displacement)

Fuel Delivery Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) became standard through most of the covered period, with some earlier or base models potentially using Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Carburetion on very early production runs.

Recommended Fuel Octane:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded) for most standard engines, higher octane may be recommended for performance variants.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Features:

FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) drivetrain. Some performance variants might have offered AWD (All-Wheel Drive) in specific markets, though less common for the mainstream Mirage.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (check specific vehicle application for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Typical Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.0 - 98.4 inches (2464 - 2499 mm), varying slightly by generation and body style.

Typical Overall Length:

Approx. 158 - 165 inches (4013 - 4191 mm), varying by body style.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 2000 - 2400 lbs (907 - 1089 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 3200 - 3500 lbs (1451 - 1588 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Information varies by model year and specific testing procedures. Early 90s vehicles generally had less stringent safety standards compared to modern cars. Frontal impact ratings should be consulted for specific years, but expect moderate performance.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional or standard feature on higher trims and later model years. Power-assisted steering for improved maneuverability.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (three-point front, two-point or three-point rear), front airbags (driver and passenger became standard in the later half of the 90s), crumple zones, reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional CD player available on higher trims or later models. Simple HVAC controls (manual or automatic climate control on select trims).

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era. Primarily focused on ABS on select models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring.

Connectivity Features:

Very basic. No Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration. Optional power windows and door locks on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type used).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 145,000 km) or 5-7 years, as a preventative measure. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar/Chrysler HOAT or similar recommended for later models.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues:

Timing belt wear and potential failure (critical maintenance item), fuel injector clogging, alternator failure, starter motor issues, window regulator failures, exhaust system rust, CV joint wear, ABS sensor issues, coolant leaks from hoses or radiator. Some models may experience automatic transmission shifting problems.

Common Issues Details:

Premature wear on suspension bushings and ball joints in high-mileage vehicles. Evaporative emission control system faults can lead to check engine lights. Clutch wear on manual transmission vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker with a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its range of vehicles from small economical cars to performance SUVs and sports cars. The Mirage nameplate has been used for various models over the decades, signifying compact and affordable transportation.

Model Evolution:

The Mirage underwent significant styling and platform changes between the 1990-2000 period, moving from boxier, more utilitarian designs to more rounded and aerodynamic aesthetics. Engine technology also evolved, with a shift towards more efficient fuel injection and multi-valve cylinder heads.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations depending on market specific needs and partnerships.

Production Status:

Discontinued in many major markets by the early 2000s, but the nameplate has been revived for newer global models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mitsubishi Mirage generally did not receive major automotive awards but was consistently recognized for its value, fuel economy, and affordability in its segment. It was a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those seeking economical transportation.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

Generally excellent for its class and era, with highway MPG often exceeding 30-35 MPG depending on the engine and transmission.