Generations Covered:
Fifth Generation (CJ/CK/CM/CN)
Production Years Covered:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Chassis Codes Covered:
CJ1A, CJ2A, CJ4A, CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CM1A, CM2A, CM4A, CN1A, CN2A, CN4A
Segment:
Subcompact car, economy car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, those seeking fuel efficiency
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Engine Options:
Known for reliable and fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engines.
Design:
Generally compact and aerodynamic design, available as sedan and hatchback.
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of affordability, fuel economy, and practicality.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (F5M21, F5M22), Automatic transmission (F4A22, F4A23, F4A33)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, CV joints, drive axles
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut, Rear torsion beam (or multi-link on some variants)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (or disc on some variants), ABS system (if equipped), brake hydraulics
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system, components, and refrigerant handling
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seat belts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, piston/ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid changes, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter service (automatic), seal replacement
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper/wheel cylinder service
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump/rack repair
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for starting, charging, lighting, and accessory circuits
HVAC Repair:
Component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant evacuation/recharge, leak detection
Bodywork:
Panel alignment, dent repair, rust treatment, glass replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Symptoms and causes, step-by-step diagnostic charts, OBD-II code interpretations (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes specifications for special tools and diagnostic equipment required for repairs.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for various systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years for interference engines (4G93). Non-interference engines (4G1x) may use chains or have different intervals. Consult manual.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate and engine specifics).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for exact type (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Engine Idling:
Idle air control (IAC) valve can become dirty or fail, causing rough idling or stalling.
Suspension Wear:
Front control arm bushings and rear shock absorbers can wear out prematurely.
Radiator Leaks:
Radiator may develop leaks over time, especially the plastic end tanks.
Automatic Transmission:
Older automatic transmissions can exhibit delayed engagement or slipping.
Power Windows:
Window regulator motors or switches can fail.