🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VIII

Model Nickname:

Evo 8

Generation:

VIII

Model Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

CT9A

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Iconic rally homologation special, renowned for its performance, handling, and advanced all-wheel-drive system. Positioned as a high-performance sports sedan.

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (other generations), Ford Focus RS, Audi S3, BMW M3 (for performance enthusiasts).

Performance:

Powerful turbocharged engine, advanced AWD system with torque vectoring, performance-tuned suspension, powerful Brembo brakes.

Handling:

Exceptional grip and agility due to S-AWC system, driver-selectable modes for ACD and AYC, responsive steering.

Manual Utility:

Essential for owners and independent mechanics aiming to maintain, repair, and diagnose the complex systems of the Evo VIII, enabling cost savings and ensuring proper upkeep of a performance vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America (for sale purposes, though manual may be global in scope)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4G63T (2.0L MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4)

Transmission:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag MD743703)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (S-AWC - Super All Wheel Control), ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), Super Active Yaw Control

Suspension:

Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-Link Independent Suspension

Brakes:

Front: Brembo 4-piston calipers, 13-inch ventilated discs. Rear: Brembo 2-piston calipers, 13-inch ventilated discs.

Electrical System:

Engine Control Module (ECU), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Ignition System, Lighting, Accessories, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules (BCM)

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Dashboard, Trim, Climate Control, Audio System

Diagnostics:

OBD-II system, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) interpretation and troubleshooting procedures

Maintenance:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head service, turbocharger assembly/disassembly, clutch replacement, differential service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component testing and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms (engine performance, starting issues, electrical faults, braking problems, etc.).

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing procedures, alignment specifications, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams.

Installation:

Component removal and installation procedures for all major systems, including engine, transmission, drivetrain components, suspension and brake assemblies.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance and fluid changes to full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Searchable Text, Printable Pages)

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original manufacturer documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ 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 Hp:

271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM spec, may vary slightly by region)

Torque Lb-Ft:

273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM spec, may vary slightly by region)

Redline:

7000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Fuel Pump

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Turbocharger Model:

Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant)

Intercooler:

Front-mounted, air-to-air intercooler

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Manufacturer:

Getrag

Model Code:

MD743703

Type:

N/A (Only Manual Transmission Offered for Evo VIII)

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated, multi-plate clutch system (designed for high torque transfer).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact OEM specification and capacity, typically around 2.0-2.5 liters).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4490 mm (176.8 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2625 mm (103.3 in)

Front Track:

1515 mm (59.6 in)

Rear Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1500 kg (3197-3307 lbs), depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.31 m³ (11.0 cu ft)

Standard Wheel Size:

17x8.0 inches (Enkei)

Optional Wheel Size:

17x8.5 inches (BBS, on some special editions like MR)

Standard Tire Size:

235/45R17

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm

Offset:

ET+38 to +43 (approximate, check specific wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated for all years/trims in the same manner as modern vehicles, but built with structural integrity for performance.

IIHS Crash Test Performance:

Generally performed well for its era in frontal and side impact tests, though specific ratings can vary.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCL)

Stability Control:

Active Stability Control (ASC) available on some models

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard

AWD System:

Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) incorporating ACD, AYC (and Super AYC on MR models)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard, side curtain airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers (upgraded Infinity or Rockford Fosgate systems available on some trims).

Climate Control:

Manual or Automatic Climate Control (depending on trim).

Instrumentation:

Comprehensive gauge cluster including tachometer, speedometer, boost gauge, and ACD/AYC mode indicators.

Advanced Features:

Key technology is the S-AWC system which integrates ACD, AYC, ABS, and ASC for optimal traction and handling in various conditions.

Standard Features:

Limited by era; no integrated Bluetooth or navigation systems typically offered from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe driving conditions/performance driving recommended more frequent changes).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually, or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, platinum/iridium recommended).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial for the 4G63T engine.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate and load).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 - 4.7 liters (4.8 - 5.0 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 - 7.5 liters (7.4 - 7.9 US quarts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact spec)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid)

Engine Component:

Head gasket failure (especially on modified engines), turbocharger wear, connecting rod bearing issues at high mileage/abuse.

Drivetrain Component:

ACD pump failure, AYC system leaks, differential wear with aggressive driving.

Electrical Component:

Window regulator failures, intermittent sensor faults.

Susceptibility:

Highly susceptible to premature wear or failure if not maintained diligently or if subjected to aggressive driving without proper upgrades.

📚 Vehicle History

Rally Roots:

The Lancer Evolution line is directly derived from Mitsubishi's World Rally Championship (WRC) success, with the Evo VIII serving as a homologation special for rally competition.

Predecessors:

Lancer Evolution I-VII

Successors:

Lancer Evolution IX, Lancer Evolution X

Introduction Year:

2003

End Year:

2005

Assembly Location:

Japan

Key Variants:

GSR (standard), MR (Ralliart tuning package, often with BBS wheels and Recaro seats), RS (homologation special with fewer amenities).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Reviews:

Consistently lauded by automotive publications for its incredible handling, grip, and performance capabilities. Often cited as a benchmark for AWD sports sedans.

Enthusiast Following:

Cult following among tuners and enthusiasts due to its robust engine and aftermarket support.