Segment:
Compact sedan and hatchback, competitive within its segment
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, reliable transportation with an emphasis on sporty driving dynamics and accessible performance, particularly in higher trims like the GT and Ralliart variants.
Target Audience:
Younger buyers, budget-conscious consumers, enthusiasts seeking a practical yet engaging vehicle.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emission controls, engine management, torque converter, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case (if applicable), drive shafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (hydraulic, power assist, parking brake), ABS, EBD
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, roof, interior trim, seats, HVAC, lighting, wipers, washers, horn, body electrical systems, security system, immobilizer
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting circuits, instrument panel, gauges, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU/ECM operations
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) functions, sensor inputs/outputs, actuator controls, emissions control strategy
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC analysis, electrical system testing, component testing
Repair:
Component disassembly, repair, reassembly, adjustment, overhaul, rebuild procedures
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation, alignment procedures
Body And Frame:
Collision repair, structural analysis, panel replacement, glass replacement
Air Conditioning:
Refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator service, leak testing
Fuel System Diagnostics:
Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pressure testing
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on utilizing OBD-II scanners and specific Mitsubishi diagnostic tools/procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork)
Engine Code Common:
4G15, 4G63, 4G64, 4G93 (depending on market and trim)
Displacement Common:
1.5L, 2.0L, 2.4L
Engine Common Name:
4G63 SOHC (non-turbo), 4G63 DOHC (turbo in Ralliart), 4G94 SOHC
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 105-162 hp (naturally aspirated), up to 270 hp (turbocharged variants like Evolution, though typically not covered in a standard Lancer manual unless specified)
Torque Range:
Approx. 100-145 lb-ft (naturally aspirated), higher for turbo variants
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally good ratings (4-5 stars depending on year/testing protocols)
IIHS Side Impact:
Varies by year, often rated 'Acceptable' or 'Good'
ABS:
Available, standard on higher trims and later years
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution, often paired with ABS
Airbags:
Front airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags available on higher trims or later model years
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM CD player, often with optional premium sound system (e.g., Rockford Fosgate on some trims)
Display:
Basic LCD display for radio and clock, often no central touchscreen in base models
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Traction Control:
Available on select models and trims
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely standard, usually an aftermarket addition
Bluetooth:
Not typically available from the factory during this period
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific owner's manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or SN, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-20 (check manual for exact specification based on engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (e.g., HOAT green or pink coolant), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
DIA Queen ATF-SP III or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure leading to vibrations
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to clunking noises and poor handling
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional shifting issues or solenoid failures
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and rust, particularly on mufflers and catalytic converters
Climate Control Actuators:
Failure of blend door actuators causing improper airflow or temperature control
