Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer has historically occupied a significant position in the compact and compact-performance sedan market, known for its reliability, practicality, and, in the case of the Evolution variants, its rally-bred performance.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza (especially WRX/STI), Ford Focus, and Mazda3 during its production run.
Features:
Diverse engine options (from economical 1.5L to potent 2.0L turbo), available AWD, sporty handling, and in the Evolution models, advanced technologies like Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (including timing belt/chain, pistons, valves, cylinder head, block), fuel injection system (EFI/GDI), ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MT) clutch, gears, synchronizers, shift mechanisms; Automatic transmission (AT) torque converter, hydraulic control, gear sets, valve body, electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, CV joints; All-wheel drive (AWD) systems (including transfer case, propeller shaft, rear differential, viscous coupling units, AYC/ACD for Evolution models).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut, multi-link), rear suspension (multi-link, independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (including sensors, modulator, control module), parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic pump, rack and pinion, steering column), steering wheel, tie rods, steering angle sensor.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, ignition switch, power windows, mirrors, central locking, horn, windshield wipers and washers.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seat adjustments, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), dashboard, gauges, warning lights.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II), trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems, scan tool usage, component testing.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid changes, timing belt/chain inspection/replacement intervals.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, inspection, repair, and installation for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, diagnostic data, fluid capacities and types, electrical resistance values, pressure readings.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and system diagnostics, including electrical troubleshooting and ECU programming for certain models.
Engine Families:
4G1 (e.g., 1.5L, 1.6L), 4G9 (e.g., 1.8L, 2.0L), 4G6 (e.g., 2.0L Turbo for Evo models), 6A1 (e.g., 2.5L V6 for some markets).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 hp (base models) to over 280 hp (Evolution models, depending on generation and market).
Torque Range:
Approximately 130 Nm to over 350 Nm (Evo models).
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) and Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on model year and engine.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91+ recommended for most models, higher octane for performance variants).
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing belt for most 4G1/4G9 engines (replacement recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or 4-6 years), timing chain for some later models and certain 4G6 variants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific engine and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended at 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 4-6 years for models equipped with a timing belt. Critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (copper, platinum, iridium), generally between 30,000 to 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 commonly recommended. Refer to manual for exact viscosity and API rating based on engine and climate.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, typically a pink or orange long-life coolant. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MSCI) is often specified.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: Gear oil GL-4 SAE 75W-90. Automatic: ATF SP-II M or equivalent (e.g., Diamond ATF SP-III for later models).
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration and harshness, especially in performance variants.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars) can cause clunking noises and affect handling.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaks or failure of the power steering pump can lead to loss of assist.
Radiator Corrosion:
Older radiators may develop corrosion and leaks, requiring replacement.
Oxygen Sensors:
Failure of oxygen sensors can lead to poor fuel economy and increased emissions.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions can exhibit delayed shifting or slipping, often related to fluid condition or valve body issues.
Evo Specific Issues:
For Evolution models, issues can include clutch wear, turbocharger issues (if not properly maintained), differential fluid leaks, and AYC/ACD system faults.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsports, particularly with the Lancer Evolution, which became a global icon in rallying, influencing the performance image of the standard Lancer.
Evolution:
The Lancer has undergone several significant redesigns from the early 1990s through to the mid-2000s, evolving from a more utilitarian compact car to a more stylish and sometimes performance-oriented option. Key milestones include the introduction of the performance-oriented Evolution models and the adoption of more modern styling and features in later generations.
Production Locations:
Primarily Japan, but also produced in other global markets through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits and local manufacturing plants.
Production Years Covered:
1992-2008 (as per product title, covering multiple generations)
