Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling, practical interior, available all-wheel drive, car-like handling
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking a versatile and stylish SUV with car-like driving dynamics
Body Structure:
Unibody construction, chassis components, frame straightening, structural repair procedures
Exterior Panels:
Front and rear bumper systems, fenders, hoods, doors, quarter panels, rocker panels, roof panel, tailgate, mirrors
Glass And Seals:
Windshield, rear window, side glass, sunroof, seals and weatherstripping installation and replacement
Paint And Finishing:
Surface preparation, dent repair, filler application, primer, base coat, clear coat procedures, touch-up techniques
Collision Repair:
Damage assessment, structural alignment, welding procedures (MIG, TIG), bonding techniques, panel replacement
Panel Alignment:
Door, hood, and tailgate gap and flush alignment specifications
Welding Techniques:
Specific welding parameters, joint types, and material compatibility for chassis and body components
Adhesives And Sealants:
Application of body adhesives, seam sealers, and sound deadening materials
Underbody And Undercoating:
Repair and application of undercoating, rust proofing, and corrosion protection
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing body panels and related components
Detail Level:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional body shop technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostic Focus:
Diagnosis of structural damage, panel fitment issues, and common collision-related problems
Repair Methodology:
Detailed repair procedures for various types of impact damage, including minor cosmetic and major structural repairs
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2351 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Horsepower:
Approx. 160 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Length:
Approx. 178.4 inches (4531 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.4 inches (1661 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.3 inches (2624 mm)
Seating Capacity:
5 Passengers
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 33.5 cu ft (behind rear seats)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3350-3600 lbs (depending on drivetrain and trim)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) for 2004 model year (typical for this era, check specific year for exact results)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - often branded as Active Stability Control
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), available front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with subwoofer
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Rear parking sensors were an available option on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Likely an optional auxiliary audio input jack on later models or aftermarket integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, for severe driving conditions. 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months for normal driving.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs recommended for 105,000 miles (168,000 km) replacement interval.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or SN, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent OAT coolant, typically pink or orange)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Diamond ATF SP-III (for automatic transmission)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Catalytic converter failure, O2 sensor issues, occasional ABS sensor faults, window regulator failures, minor interior trim rattles
Body Specific Concerns:
Corrosion on rocker panels and wheel arches in rust-prone climates, potential for minor paint chipping on front fascia
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (Japan)
First Generation:
Launched in 2001 globally, North American debut for the 2003 model year. The 2004-2006 models represent the first generation (CU/CF).
Facelift:
A minor facelift occurred for the 2006 model year, including revised front grille, bumper, and interior trim.
Manufacturing Plant:
Primarily produced in Japan.
