Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI represented the pinnacle of rally-bred performance for its era, offering a potent blend of power, handling, and advanced technology aimed at serious enthusiasts and competitive drivers.
Competitors:
Competed directly with iconic performance sedans such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, and Lancia Delta Integrale.
Performance Focus:
Renowned for its aggressive styling, potent turbocharged engine, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with Active Yaw Control (AYC), and exceptional handling capabilities.
Rally Heritage:
Directly influenced by Mitsubishi's WRC success, featuring homologation specials like the Tommi Mäkinen Edition.
Value Proposition:
This manual provides the essential, factory-accurate information required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Lancer Evolution VI, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for this highly specialized vehicle.
Engine:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged inline-4)
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection control, ignition timing
Transmission:
5-speed manual (Type RZ) and 5-speed manual (Type RS) options
Transfer Case:
Active Transfer (AYC - Active Yaw Control) system
Differentials:
Front and Rear Limited Slip Differentials (LSD)
Suspension:
MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear, adjustable dampers (RS models), AYC integration
Brakes:
Front Brembo 4-piston calipers, rear 2-piston calipers, ABS system
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering, steering rack and column
Electrical:
Full vehicle wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, ECU pinouts
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, chassis repair
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system components and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant passages
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire fitment, alignment procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuilds (e.g., engine, transmission, turbocharger)
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, electrical testing methods
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul instructions, torque specifications, assembly procedures
Transmission Overhaul:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, reassembly, clutch service
Turbocharger Service:
Turbocharger inspection, rebuild, and replacement procedures
Suspension Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, ABS component testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing with multimeters and oscilloscopes
Body Repair:
Dent removal, panel replacement, rust repair techniques
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Configuration:
2.0L (1997cc) DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Cylinder Head:
DOHC 16-valve with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G or similar twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler
Horsepower:
Approx. 276 hp (206 kW) @ 6500 rpm (JDM Spec, often underestimated)
Torque:
Approx. 275 lb-ft (373 Nm) @ 3000 rpm (JDM Spec)
Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95-98 RON)
Fuel Pump:
High-flow electric fuel pump
Length:
Approx. 4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 in)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 1,465 mm (57.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,240 - 1,300 kg (2,734 - 2,866 lbs) depending on trim
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to vehicle placard or manual
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 0.275 m³ (9.7 cu ft)
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Modern crash testing standards were less prevalent at time of release for such vehicles; focus on inherent design safety)
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) system and ACD (Active Center Differential)
Stability Control:
N/A (No specific Electronic Stability Control system as understood today)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on most models)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. High-performance driving may necessitate more frequent changes.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5-7 years. Critical for the 4G63T engine.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) depending on plug type. Use high-quality iridium or platinum plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature). Synthetic oil highly recommended.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (gearbox oil). Specific AYC fluid for rear differential/AYC unit (check manual for exact specification).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-performance brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron II/III ATF.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Can occur if engine is heavily used or worn; check oil levels regularly.
Ayc Pump Failure:
The AYC hydraulic pump can fail over time, leading to warning lights and loss of the AYC system's function. Replacement is often required.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance nature of the vehicle can lead to accelerated clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving.
Timing Belt:
Critical component; failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Adhering to replacement intervals is paramount.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cast iron exhaust manifolds can develop cracks due to heat cycles; a common upgrade is to a tubular stainless steel manifold.
Rust:
As with many vehicles of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Chassis and wheel arches are common areas.
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has a deep and successful history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), which heavily influenced the Lancer Evolution lineage.
Evo Lineage:
The Evolution VI (CP9A) followed the highly successful Evo IV and V, building upon their mechanical and aerodynamic advancements. It introduced further refinements and a more aggressive styling.
Key Changes From Evo V:
Revised front bumper, redesigned headlights and fog lights, larger rear spoiler, upgraded turbocharger, improved cooling system, and mechanical tweaks to suspension and AYC.
Special Editions:
Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME) - launched in 2000, commemorating five-time WRC champion Tommi Mäkinen. Featured specific styling, mechanical upgrades (e.g., improved turbo, suspension tuning), and often a reduced steering ratio.
Production Years:
1999 - 2001
Production Locations:
Japan
Motorsport Success:
The Lancer Evolution series, including the Evo VI, is a legend in rallying, winning numerous WRC championships and rallies, solidifying its reputation for performance and durability.
Critical Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its exceptional handling, braking, and potent powertrain, often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its generation.
Homologation:
The Evo VI was built to homologate Mitsubishi for Group A racing in the World Rally Championship.