Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, professional mechanics, and dedicated owners of the Lancer Evolution VII
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Audi S3 (8L)
Vehicle Philosophy:
Performance, handling, rally-bred technology, driver engagement
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the complex systems of the Evo VII, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63T), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Transfer Case, Drive Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio, Power Accessories, Ignition System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC System, Emissions Control System
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) analysis, Electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper service, Electrical component repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Maintenance Schedules:
Scheduled maintenance intervals for fluids, filters, and major components
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower Hp:
280 PS (276 hp) @ 6500 rpm (JDM spec)
Torque Lb-Ft:
289 lb-ft (392 Nm) @ 3500 rpm (JDM spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential multiport fuel injection
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M51-DDZE)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II Sports Mode)
All Wheel Drive:
Advanced S-AYC (Super Active Yaw Control) and ACD (Active Center Differential)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch (manual transmission)
Crash Test Performance:
Refer to JNCAP or equivalent regional safety ratings for the era; generally robust construction for its class.
Traction Control:
Active Traction Control (TCL)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ASC - Active Stability Control) (Optional on some models)
Braking System:
ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Front: 320mm ventilated discs with Brembo 4-piston calipers, Rear: 300mm ventilated discs with Brembo 2-piston calipers (standard on most models)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Chassis Reinforcement:
Reinforced body structure for increased rigidity and crash protection
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM radio with CD player, often with 6 or 8 speakers depending on trim level. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Performance Aids:
Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) for advanced torque vectoring and handling dynamics.
Engine Management:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Engine Control Module (ECM) managing ignition timing, fuel delivery, and boost pressure.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily features for internal vehicle systems. Aftermarket Bluetooth/USB adapters are available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal conditions; severe driving may require more frequent changes).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum/Iridium plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km). Consult manual for specific plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-80,000 miles (96,000-128,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for the 4G63T engine.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for manual transmission).
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-SP III (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid).
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for front and rear differentials, and transfer case).
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially if modified or abused), turbocharger wear, connecting rod bearing issues (with extreme modifications/abuse), valve stem seals.
Transmission Common Problems:
Clutch wear (especially in aggressive driving), synchro wear in manual transmissions, occasional failure of ACD/AYC pump or solenoids.
Suspension Common Problems:
Wear in bushings and ball joints, especially with aggressive driving and aftermarket suspension components.
Electrical Common Problems:
Fuel pump failure, AC system issues, intermittent sensor failures (e.g., O2 sensors, crank position sensor).
Motorsport Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in rallying, most notably with numerous WRC victories in the Lancer Evolution lineage.
Evolution Series:
The Evolution VII marked a significant evolution from the Evo VI, with substantial upgrades to electronics, chassis, and performance, becoming more of a technological showcase.
Key Upgrades From Previous Model:
Introduction of ACD and S-AYC systems, larger turbocharger, improved intercooler, revised ECU, stronger chassis components, often larger wheels and brakes.
Production Period:
January 2001 - March 2003
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
