🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer / Colt

Model Aliases:

Mitsubishi Mirage (in some markets, particularly North America for certain generations), Dodge Colt, Plymouth Colt

Generation Code:

CK/CM (Fifth Generation)

Chassis Codes:

CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CK6A

Engine Codes:

4G13, 4G15, 4G92, 4G93

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car (C-segment)

Target Audience:

Economy-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, DIY mechanics

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Mazda 323

Vehicle Strengths:

Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, reliable powertrain options, practical interior, sporty handling on some variants (e.g., GSR, RS)

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent repair shops with the technical knowledge to maintain and repair these vehicles effectively, saving on dealership costs.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

Regions Covered:

Global (with potential regional variations noted within)

Trim Levels Covered:

GL, GS, RS, GTI, ES, LS, SE (specific availability dependent on region and year)

Estimated Page Count:

700-1000+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Purpose:

Repair, maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, overhaul

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine construction, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, engine assembly, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, emission control

Engine Management:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), ECU operation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox internal components, shift mechanism, gear ratios, service procedures, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, transmission control unit (TCU), valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic circuits, service procedures, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) layout, driveshafts, CV joints, differential (transaxle), wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link or independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, service procedures, bleeding procedures, specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, universal joints, specifications

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body sealing, rust prevention

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, airbag system (if equipped, though less common on base models of this era), passive safety features

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., no-start, poor performance, electrical issues), fault code interpretation

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, steering rack replacement

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every component of the vehicle

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded wiring schematics for all electrical systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and specifications)

Detail Level:

Includes torque specifications, tolerances, diagnostic parameters, and step-by-step instructions with accompanying illustrations/diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics

Digital Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

1.3L SOHC I4 (4G13), 1.5L SOHC I4 (4G15), 1.8L DOHC I4 (4G93), 2.0L DOHC I4 (4G93 - MIVEC in some markets/trims)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 70 hp (4G13) to 140 hp (4G93 DOHC)

Torque Range:

Approx. 75 lb-ft (4G13) to 130 lb-ft (4G93 DOHC)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Block Material:

Cast iron (4G1 series), Aluminum alloy (4G9 series)

Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Sport Variants:

Some performance variants (e.g., RS, GSR) may feature limited-slip differentials (LSD) or closer gear ratios.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,300 - 4,450 mm (169.3 - 175.2 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1,690 - 1,750 mm (66.5 - 68.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1,390 - 1,430 mm (54.7 - 56.3 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,000 - 1,250 kg (2,200 - 2,750 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration

Trunk Volume:

Typically around 12-14 cubic feet, depending on body style (sedan vs. hatchback)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Information for this specific generation might be limited by modern standards. Owners should consult specific vehicle import/export safety databases.

ABS:

Available on higher trims or as an option, especially in later production years (e.g., 1994-1995).

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag generally standard on most models from 1993/1994 onwards. Passenger airbag less common.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners (front), 3-point lap and shoulder belts (rear).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player on some higher trims. Basic speaker configuration.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels or as an optional factory accessory.

OBD Ii:

This era predates widespread OBD-II compliance in many markets. Diagnostics often rely on proprietary Mitsubishi connectors and scan tools or manual code retrieval methods described in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Filter Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., standard copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for interference engines (e.g., 4G9 series). Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific fill amount).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or Dexron III compatible ATF. Check manual for specific type and capacity.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity approx. 5-6 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket can degrade over time, leading to leaks.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts can wear, leading to noise and steering issues.

Automatic Transmission:

Some units may experience harsh shifting or slipping if not properly maintained.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses or faulty grounds can lead to intermittent electrical problems.

Rust Corrosion:

Common in older vehicles, particularly wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the windshield/rear window seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of producing reliable and affordable vehicles, with the Lancer platform being a cornerstone of their global strategy for decades.

Fifth Generation:

The CK/CM generation (1992-1996) represented a significant styling update over its predecessor, featuring a more aerodynamic and rounded design. It also saw the introduction of more advanced engine technologies and optional AWD on certain performance variants (though not as prevalent in this specific 92-95 range for the Lancer/Colt nameplate in all markets).

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (primarily), with assembly also occurring in various global plants depending on market.

Production Period:

The CK/CM generation ran from 1992 to 1996, with the 1992-1995 period covered by this manual.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation:

The Lancer/Colt line generally received positive reviews for its value, fuel efficiency, and in sportier trims, its engaging driving dynamics. Specific awards would vary by market and year.

Fuel Economy:

Generally considered good for its class, with specific MPG figures varying by engine and transmission.