Segment:
Compact/Subcompact car segment
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicles.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier during the 1996-2001 model years.
Value Proposition:
Offers reliable and economical transportation with straightforward mechanicals, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a durable platform.
Vehicle Attributes:
Known for its fuel efficiency, practical interior, and generally good reliability, often featuring either front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD) on some variants. Available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles.
Manual Value:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing this popular model, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership servicing.
Primary Coverage:
North America, Europe, Asia (specific markets may vary based on regional variants)
Secondary Coverage:
Technical service information applicable to global variants of the Lancer platform during the specified years, with notes on regional differences where applicable.
Estimated Page Count:
~2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual covering multiple variants)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system, cooling system, engine control system (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drivetrain (CV joints, driveshafts, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (disc and drum), wheel alignment, chassis lubrication.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, ignition system, instrument panel, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, climate control system, body control module (BCM), anti-theft systems (if equipped).
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seating, climate control system components, body structural repair, rust prevention.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, battery service.
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair and replacement, AC system servicing.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, component testing procedures, wiring harness testing, diagnostic tool usage (OBD-II).
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic flowcharts, and circuit diagrams.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchable:
Yes (typically searchable text)
Printability:
Printable (high-resolution images and text for clear printing)
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - User prints and binds as desired)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - User chooses paper type for printing)
Engine Codes:
4G13, 4G15, 4G91, 4G92, 4G93, 4G94 (depending on market and trim level)
Displacement Options:
1.3L (1300cc), 1.5L (1500cc), 1.6L (1600cc), 1.8L (1800cc), 2.0L (2000cc)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) depending on engine variant.
Horsepower Range:
~70 HP to ~145 HP (depending on engine and market)
Torque Range:
~95 lb-ft to ~130 lb-ft (depending on engine and market)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (O2 sensors), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system, PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-II or similar)
AWD Option:
Available on select models (e.g., AWD variants of the Lancer Evolution, though not typically standard Colt Lancer models unless specified).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for specific fill)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN ATF SP-II or equivalent (refer to manual for specific fill)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by model year and specific crash test data; generally considered adequate for its class at the time.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims or later years.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on standard Colt Lancer models of this era.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models from mid-generation onwards.
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH/ISOFIX not standard in this era; relies on seatbelt fastening.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical for interference engines, refer to specific engine code).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A certified, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendation).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or a quality ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Problems:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential for head gasket failure on some higher mileage engines, timing belt failure if not replaced per schedule (interference engine).
Transmission Problems:
Automatic transmission clutch wear, manual transmission synchro issues (less common).
Electrical Issues:
Alternator failures, starter motor issues, power window motor failures, intermittent dashboard warning lights.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to age and mileage.
Corrosion:
Rust can be an issue, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture, affecting wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, known for a broad range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs and performance cars.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer is a long-standing model line for Mitsubishi, dating back to 1973. The 1996-2001 generation represents the 6th generation (CK/CM chassis) globally, evolving from earlier models with chassis improvements and updated styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, but also assembled in various international locations under license or joint ventures.
Market Introduction Era:
The 6th generation (CJ/CK/CM) was introduced in 1995 for the 1996 model year and ran until 2007 in some markets, with significant updates during its run.
