🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution IV

Generation Code:

CN9A

Production Years:

1996-1998

Chassis Code:

CN9A

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Lancia Delta Integrale.

Powertrain:

Legendary 4G63T turbocharged engine, advanced AWD with AYC.

Chassis:

Stiffened chassis, performance-tuned suspension, powerful Brembo brakes (on some variants).

Aerodynamics:

Aggressive body kit including front bumper, side skirts, rear spoiler, and bonnet vents for enhanced downforce and cooling.

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, experienced DIY enthusiasts, and owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV (CN9A)

Covered Years:

1996, 1997, 1998

Regions:

Global (primarily Japanese Domestic Market focus)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Completeness:

Full workshop manual, designed for professional technicians.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4G63T DOHC (2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4), including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, turbocharger, intercooler, exhaust manifold, intake manifold.

Engine Management:

ECU, sensors (MAP, TPS, IAT, Knock, O2), fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems.

Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (W5M42-1-BF2) and optional 5-speed Automatic Transmission (Sportronic), including gears, synchros, clutch, differentials, transfer case, gearbox overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, including Active Yaw Control (AYC), front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, propeller shaft, hub assemblies.

Suspension:

MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, bushings, hubs, wheel bearings.

Steering:

Power assisted rack and pinion steering system, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid.

Brakes:

Front ventilated disc brakes (Brembo 4-piston calipers on some models), rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel bolt pattern (5x114.3), recommended tire sizes, inflation pressures, wheel bearing replacement.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, fenders, spoilers, body sealing, rust prevention, alignment specifications.

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, upholstery, door panels, carpeting, headliner, interior trim, climate control system, SRS airbag system.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor.

Instrumentation Controls:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, switches, controls for HVAC, audio, and other functions.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant type and capacity, system servicing.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure specifications.

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, hoses, cooling fan, pressure cap, flush and fill procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for the 4G63T engine, including torque specifications and clearance measurements.

Transmission Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, component replacement (gears, synchros, seals), and reassembly.

Drivetrain Service:

AYC system diagnosis and repair, differential service, transfer case maintenance, driveshaft and CV joint inspection and replacement.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, tie rods), alignment procedures, power steering system repair.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, ABS bleeding, master cylinder service.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, repair of circuits and systems.

HVAC System Service:

Refrigerant recharge, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), blower motor repair.

Bodywork And Collision Repair:

Panel replacement, welding, straightening, door and window sealing, adjustment of body gaps.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (OBD-I era specific).

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on use in a workshop environment.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.

Digital Format:

PDF

N/A Digital:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4G63T

Configuration:

2.0L (1997cc) DOHC 16-valve turbocharged inline-4

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Ps:

280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) @ 6500 rpm (JDM spec)

Torque Nm:

352 Nm (259 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM spec)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)

Induction:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 Liters

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 Liters (without filter change)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual (W5M42-1-BF2)

Type:

4-speed Automatic (Sportronic)

AWD System:

Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Drive (4WD) system with Active Yaw Control (AYC) for enhanced cornering stability and traction.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diaqueen ATF SP-II (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,350 mm (171.3 in)

Width:

1,765 mm (69.5 in)

Height:

1,415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Track Front:

1,495 mm (58.9 in)

Track Rear:

1,490 mm (58.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,350 kg (2,976 lb)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited independent crash test data available for this era of JDM homologation special.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.

Ayc:

Active Yaw Control (AYC) system enhances dynamic stability.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD compatibility (optional). Speaker configuration typically includes front and rear door speakers.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Ayc:

Active Yaw Control (AYC) as a sophisticated torque-vectoring system, enhancing cornering performance.

N/A Modern:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were standard on this model.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles), depending on plug type (platinum recommended).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5 years.

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (synthetic recommended for performance driving).

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Engine Reliability:

Generally robust 4G63T, but can be susceptible to ringland failure if consistently driven hard without proper maintenance or if modified without supporting upgrades. Head gasket issues can occur with overheating.

Ayc System:

AYC pump and sensors can fail over time, leading to the system becoming inoperative. Corrosion of electrical connectors can also be an issue.

Turbocharger:

Turbocharger seals can degrade, leading to oil consumption or smoking. Regular oil changes are crucial for turbo longevity.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber bushings in suspension and drivetrain components can wear out, leading to degraded handling and clunking noises.

Rust:

As with many Japanese cars of this era, rust can be a concern, particularly on wheel arches, sills, and suspension components, especially in regions with harsh winters.

📚 Vehicle History

Rally Roots:

The Lancer Evolution series originates from Mitsubishi's successful WRC (World Rally Championship) campaigns, with homologation specials like the Evo IV built to meet racing regulations.

Position In Evo Lineup:

The fourth iteration marked significant advancements, notably the introduction of the Active Yaw Control (AYC) system and a revised chassis.

Design Changes From Evoi-Iii:

New chassis, wider track, revised suspension geometry, new front bumper with larger driving lamps, and updated interior.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (primarily Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture)

Production Volume:

Approximately 6,000 units of the Evo IV were produced.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Homologation:

Built as a homologation special for Group A rallying, underscoring its performance pedigree.

Performance Car Of The Year:

Consistently praised by automotive press for its handling, acceleration, and rally-bred capabilities.