Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking to maintain or restore their vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6.
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with pop-up headlights, distinctive fastback profile.
Performance Options:
Available with naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, front-wheel drive, and optional all-wheel drive (AWD).
Value Proposition:
Offered a blend of performance, style, and affordability, especially in its turbocharged variants.
Engine:
Engine mechanical systems (including disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair), fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission systems (including repair, overhaul, adjustments), clutch system.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including CV joints, drive axles, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), parking brake system, ABS (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, lines, rack and pinion), steering column, wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams, starting and charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, accessories, power windows, mirrors, audio system, anti-theft system (if applicable).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system (components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis).
Body:
Body and chassis repair, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, component overhauls, troubleshooting guides for common problems.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs - for applicable systems).
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Installation:
Procedures for installing and replacing various components, accessories, and aftermarket parts.
Level:
Expert Level: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Code Base:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC Turbocharged I4)
Engine Code Optional:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4 - GS/GT models)
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC NA I4 - RS/LS models)
Base Engine Hp:
140 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx. for 2.0L SOHC NA)
Base Engine Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx. for 2.0L SOHC NA)
Turbo Engine Hp:
210 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx. for 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)
Turbo Engine Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx. for 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05-14B (for early models), TD05HR-16G (for later models) on turbocharged variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not readily available for this specific year/model.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not readily available for this specific year/model.
ABS:
Available on certain trims, typically higher-performance models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard; passenger airbag typically optional or unavailable.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (center rear).
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard ignition), potentially longer for platinum/iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 4G63 engine to prevent catastrophic failure).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil recommended.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Turbocharger Failure:
Common on high-mileage or poorly maintained turbocharged models due to heat and oil degradation.
Clutch Wear:
Wear and tear on clutch components, especially in manual transmission models used for spirited driving.
Suspension Bushings:
Aging and deterioration of rubber suspension bushings can lead to noise, vibration, and poor handling.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail, causing windows to stop working or fall into the door.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals can leak over time.