Generation Code:
Z20/Z30 (depending on market)
Model Years Covered:
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Chassis Codes:
Z21A, Z22A, Z23A, Z24A, Z25A, Z26A, Z27A, Z28A (and variations depending on engine and body style)
Market Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/MPV (depending on specific market variant)
Key Competitors Era:
Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall/Opel Corsa, Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 206, Renault Clio
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Practical, fuel-efficient, compact urban vehicle with versatile interior space
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge for effective maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, owners seeking to understand their vehicle's systems
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drivetrain, axles, driveshafts
Brakes And Suspension:
Brake system (ABS, hydraulic, parking brake), suspension (front and rear), steering system
Electrical And Electronics:
Starter, charging system, battery, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, power accessories, ECU diagnostics
Body And Chassis:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, HVAC system, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement
Component Installation:
Instructions for replacing or installing new components
Technical Depth Level:
Complete workshop level, covering diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications
Diagnostic Tools Required:
References to diagnostic scan tools (e.g., MUT-III for Mitsubishi), multimeters, specialized tools
Special Tool Requirements:
Lists specific Mitsubishi special tools required for certain procedures
Torque Specifications:
Extensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Clearances And Tolerances:
Detailed specifications for component clearances and wear tolerances
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing with clear diagrams and text
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Searchable Text:
Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval
Hyperlinked Navigation:
Often includes hyperlinked table of contents and cross-references for easy navigation
Engine Code Examples:
4A90, 4A91, 4G13, 4G15 (depending on market and variant)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (common configurations)
Displacement Cc Examples:
1.1L (3A91), 1.3L (4A90/4G13), 1.5L (4A91/4G15), 1.6L (4A92/4G18), 1.8L (4G93) - Market dependent
Horsepower Range Ps:
Approximately 65 PS (1.1L) to 115 PS (1.8L) - Varies by engine and market
Torque Range Nm:
Approximately 100 Nm (1.1L) to 170 Nm (1.8L) - Varies by engine and market
Fuel Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Standard Gearbox:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Gearbox:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (market dependent)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil (check specific application)
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic/Cvt:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or CVT Fluid (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., Diaqueen SPIII for CVT)
Euro Ncap Rating:
3-star or 4-star (depending on year and specific testing regime)
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard), optional rear discs on higher trims. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) available.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCL) on some variants.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Infotainment System Features:
Basic radio/CD player, potentially with auxiliary input or basic MP3 playback on later models. Steering wheel audio controls not common on base trims.
Available Driver Assistance:
Parking sensors (rear), sometimes cruise control on higher trims. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are generally not featured on this generation.
Connectivity Options:
Limited to basic audio connectivity; Bluetooth hands-free or streaming typically not standard on earlier models.
Oil Change Interval Km Months:
Typically 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (subject to driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval Km:
Approximately 30,000 - 45,000 km, or as needed based on operating environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Km:
Varies by plug type: Iridium/Platinum plugs often 80,000 - 100,000 km; standard plugs 30,000 - 40,000 km.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific engine and climate recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 liters (depending on engine)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and discs, clutch wear (manual transmission), suspension bushings, exhaust system components.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking, or minor sensor failures can occur with age.
Engine Minor Issues:
Some reports of minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or crankshaft seals over time.
Mitsubishi Brand Focus:
Known for robust engineering, rally heritage (Lancer Evolution), and practical, reliable vehicles.
Colt Model Lineage:
The Colt nameplate has a long history for Mitsubishi, dating back to the 1960s, often representing their compact offerings in various global markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Japan and the Netherlands (for European markets) by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Platform Sharing:
Often shared platforms or components with other vehicles in the Mitsubishi range and sometimes with partner companies (e.g., NedCar in the Netherlands).
European Car Of The Year Nominations:
While not a winner, the Colt often featured in discussions for practicality and value in its segment.
Consumer Reliability Ratings:
Generally considered average to good for its class and era. Reliability can be impacted by maintenance adherence.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with Euro 4 or equivalent emission standards depending on the market and production year.
