Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mitsubishi owners
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Subaru Impreza
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, factory-accurate information for complete vehicle servicing and repair
Manual Benefit:
Enables owners to perform diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs, saving on dealership costs
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, intake and exhaust systems, engine control system (ECU), ignition system, emission control system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear shift mechanism, gearbox assembly, internal components
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, electronic control unit (TCU), fluid circulation
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) variants (if applicable), drive shafts, axles, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (Multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, stabilizers
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering gear, tie rods
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Rebuilds:
Engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures (where applicable)
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, brake adjustment, parking brake adjustment
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical circuit diagrams for all vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostics, repair, and maintenance
Illustrations:
Step-by-step instructions with exploded views and diagrams
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years for Long Life Coolant (LLC)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or SN, ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 Liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) with filter change (varies by engine)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual, typically ATF Dexron III or specific Mitsubishi fluid
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Some models experienced premature catalytic converter failure, often linked to misfires or rich fuel conditions.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Oxygen sensors can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Suspension Wear:
Front strut mounts and rear shock absorbers may show premature wear, leading to clunking noises.
Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Some instances of harsh shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions, sometimes related to TCU or valve body issues.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (Japan)
Generation Identifier:
9th Generation Lancer (CS/CT chassis)
Design Language:
Marked a shift towards a more dynamic and athletic design, influenced by Mitsubishi's rally heritage.
Production Years Global:
2000-2007 (for this generation's core years, though facelifted and sold into 2008/2009 in some markets)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, North America, Thailand, Russia, China