Category:
Compact Car / Sport Compact
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair information.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Known for its sporty handling, accessible pricing, and the availability of high-performance 'Ralliart' and 'Evolution' variants, offering a blend of practicality and performance.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level data to enable owners and technicians to perform all necessary maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics accurately and efficiently.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine mechanicals (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder heads), engine control module (ECM) operation and diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, repair, diagnostics, clutch system, gear shift mechanisms, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM) operation and diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential, drive shafts, CV joints, propeller shafts, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, wheel alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, body repair procedures, chassis specifications.
Emissions:
Emission control systems, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, EVAP system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to emissions.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms, SRS module.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes, timing belt/chain inspection and replacement (if applicable).
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Engine and transmission diagnostics, ABS, SRS, and HVAC system diagnostics using OBD-II scan tools and manual methods.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, system-specific wiring diagrams with component locations and wire color coding.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, including fault code lookup, sensor data analysis, and component testing procedures.
Repair Level:
Full vehicle repair, including engine teardown, transmission overhaul, suspension and brake component replacement, and electrical component diagnosis.
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Likely 4-star (check specific model year and trim for official ratings)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Likely 4-star (check specific model year and trim for official ratings)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on some base models.
Traction Control:
Available on higher trims and Evolution models.
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on later models and Evolution variants.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles / 12 months for synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific engine/climate).
Air Cleaner Element:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum: 60,000 - 100,000 miles. Iridium: 100,000+ miles (refer to manual for specific engine type).
Engine Coolant:
Initial change at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years (refer to manual for specific coolant type).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical for 4G1/4G9/4G63 engines as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage).
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most climates. Check manual for specific engine (e.g., 4G63T might have specific requirements).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid (refer to manual).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and cracking of engine mounts can lead to vibration and clunking noises.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can cause steering looseness and premature tire wear.
Automatic Transmission:
Some models may experience harsh shifting or solenoid issues, particularly with higher mileage.
Rust:
Common for vehicles of this era, especially in areas with road salt, can affect wheel arches, rocker panels, and subframes.
Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug systems can sometimes develop failing ignition coils, leading to misfires.
