🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Model Alias:

Lancer (specific markets)

Generation Code:

CB/CC/CD (Fifth Generation)

Chassis Codes:

CB1A, CB2A, CB3A, CB4A, CB5A, CB6A, CB7A, CB8A (examples, specific to market and engine)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Subcompact Sedan and Hatchback

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Hyundai Elantra

Manual Advantage:

Provides OEM-level detail for self-sufficiency in repairs, saving significant costs compared to professional servicing.

Vehicle Positioning:

Affordable, reliable, and practical transportation, often appealing to first-time car buyers or those seeking economical running costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Global markets (North America, Europe, Asia, Australia - specific market variants may exist)

Secondary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific model/engine variant, typically 800-1500+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel & Emission Control, Engine Lubrication & Cooling, Engine Control/Fuel & Exhaust Systems

Powertrain Systems:

Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch/Maintenance, Propeller Shaft & Differential Carrier

Chassis Systems:

Brake System, Front Axle & Front Suspension, Rear Axle & Rear Suspension, Steering System

Electrical Systems:

Electrical System, Chassis Electrical, Circuit Diagram, Wiring Diagram

Body Systems:

Body, Exterior/Interior

Comfort Systems:

Heater & Air Conditioner

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection/replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components and sub-assemblies

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable, and wiring diagrams for electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Features:

Searchable text, bookmarked chapters, printable pages

Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Examples:

4G13 (1.3L), 4G15 (1.5L), 4G18 (1.8L SOHC), 4G63 (2.0L DOHC - performance variants/Galant VR-4 relation)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 70-125 hp (depending on engine and market)

Torque Range:

Approx. 100-160 Nm (depending on engine and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), some earlier/base models may have carburetion (less common for this generation).

Emission Systems:

Catalytic Converter, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Oxygen Sensors (O2), Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SJ/SL or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine/climate)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Available. Typically 5-speed manual.

Automatic Transmission:

Available. Typically 3-speed or 4-speed automatic.

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring type (for manual transmission)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent) recommended (verify with manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 hypoid gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 75W-85 viscosity (verify with manual)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback, 3-door Hatchback (specific availability varies by market)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2500 mm (2.5 meters)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 1000-1200 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1500-1600 kg (verify with vehicle placard)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

Limited official crash test data available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle. Generally considered basic for its time.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard on most models). Some higher trims might have rear discs. ABS was an option on some later models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was optional or standard on higher trims in later years of this generation. Passenger airbag was rare/unavailable.

Seatbelts:

Standard front and rear seatbelts. Pretensioners for front seatbelts may have been present on later or higher trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player on higher trims. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, or integrated smartphone mirroring). Analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years for engines with interference design (e.g., 4G63). Non-interference engines have longer intervals, but replacement is still critical. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with cap or manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or specific power steering fluid (verify with manual)

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars), ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust system components, clutch wear (manual transmission), O2 sensors, fuel injectors.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets, potential for head gasket issues if overheated, distributor-related issues on older ignition systems.

Electrical Quirks:

Corrosion in electrical connectors, minor issues with power windows or central locking depending on climate and maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a history of producing reliable and robust vehicles, often with a focus on value and engineering. Known for rally heritage (Lancer Evolution, though not directly related to base Colt Lancer).

Fifth Generation Launch:

Introduced in 1992, replacing the previous generation Lancer. Featured a more aerodynamic and modern design.

Model Variants:

Marketed globally under various names, including Colt Lancer, Lancer, and Mirage (in some regions, particularly North America for the preceding generation but the lineage continued).

Production Period:

1992-1996

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan, and potentially other global assembly plants depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

Known for reliability and value. While not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards in its base form, it was a strong contender in the affordable compact segment.