Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size station wagon (also known as a 'sport wagon' or 'sports wagon')
Distinguishing Features:
Often featured sporty styling, performance-oriented powertrains (especially V6 twin-turbo), and available all-wheel drive (AWD).
Competitors:
Subaru Outback, Audi RS4 Avant, Volvo V70 R, BMW 3 Series Touring (E46)
Platform:
Shared platform with the Mitsubishi Galant sedan.
Powertrain Options:
Available with naturally aspirated 4-cylinder and potent V6 twin-turbo engines.
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) variants.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing belts, pistons, rings, cylinder heads, valves, crankshaft, camshafts
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensors
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox operation, internal components, adjustments
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, valve body, torque converter, planetary gears, fluid servicing, electronic control
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, column lock
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, EBD, brake fluid, calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, underbody components, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, assembly, and disassembly
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor data interpretation
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2351 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
86.5 mm x 100.0 mm
Engine 1 Horsepower Approx:
145-155 hp (depending on specific market tune)
Engine 1 Torque Approx:
170-180 lb-ft
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6, SOHC, 24 valves, Twin-Turbocharged
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
75.0 mm x 93.0 mm
Engine 2 Horsepower Approx:
276-280 hp (often electronically limited in Japan)
Engine 2 Torque Approx:
270-275 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per manual, typically 91+ for V6TT)
Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by market and specific test agency. Generally considered average for its era.
ABS:
Standard on most models, often with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on performance variants (e.g., Active Stability Control - ASC).
All Wheel Drive:
Available on many trims, enhancing stability and grip.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner and load-limiter seatbelts.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for 4G64 and 6A13TT engines. Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (100,000-150,000 km). Failure leads to catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual; typically 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type (Iridium recommended).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API/ILSAC specifications.
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate additives).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically a Dexron III equivalent ATF or specific power steering fluid.
Common Issues 4G64:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan, potential for sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule.
Common Issues 6A13Tt:
Turbocharger wear, intercooler leaks, ignition coil issues, spark plug fouling, potential for sludge in oil passages, exhaust manifold cracks, sensitive to fuel quality.
Common Issues General:
Rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills), power steering pump noise, A/C system performance degradation, CV joint wear, suspension component wear.