Market Segment:
Mid-size family sedan, popular in Australia and other right-hand drive markets
Key Competitors:
Holden Commodore, Ford Falcon, Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, robust engines, good value for money
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Magna enthusiasts
Benefit Statement:
Enables efficient and accurate maintenance and repair, saving time and money
Engine:
All engine types, diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive systems, CV joints, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, component replacement, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic systems, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkages, troubleshooting
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, glass, trim, interior components, HVAC
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and major component overhauls
Installation:
Procedures for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on specialized tools and diagnostic equipment
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners
Clearances Tolerances:
Precise measurements for component clearances and tolerances
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (F4A51, F4A42 variants)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DiaQueen SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2740 mm (107.9 in)
Length:
Approx. 4800-4850 mm (189.0-190.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1750-1780 mm (68.9-70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1390-1420 mm (54.7-55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350-1550 kg (2976-3417 lbs) depending on engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle compliance plate
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Typical Tire Sizes:
185/70R14, 195/65R15, 205/60R15 (depending on trim and wheels)
Ancap Rating:
Not available or rated under modern ANCAP standards
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims and later models
Passive Safety:
Seat belts (front and rear), collapsible steering column, reinforced safety cell
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on most models from mid-production onwards; passenger airbag not standard
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims; limited digital integration
Driver Assistance Features:
Primarily ABS; other electronic aids were not common in this era.
Connectivity Options:
N/A (No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 km (4,660 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 km (9,320 - 18,640 miles) or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 100,000 km (18,640 - 62,137 miles) depending on type (refer to manual)
Timing Belt Replacement 4Cyl:
Recommended every 90,000 km (56,000 miles) or 5 years for the 4G63 engine (critical replacement)
Timing Belt Replacement V6:
Recommended every 90,000 km (56,000 miles) or 5 years for the 6G72 V6 engine (critical replacement)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent green/blue type)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), radiator leaks, alternator issues, power steering pump leaks, window regulator failures, minor electrical gremlins.
Repair Focus:
Emphasis on preventative maintenance for timing belt and cooling system is crucial.
Mitsubishi History Context:
Mitsubishi Motors, a global automotive manufacturer with a diverse product range.
Magna Predecessor:
Mitsubishi Sigma (based on Japanese Galant)
Magna Successors:
Mitsubishi Verada, Mitsubishi 380
Production Location:
Australia (Adelaide, South Australia)
Design Philosophy:
Developed specifically for the Australian market, reflecting local driving conditions and preferences.
