🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Carisma

Year:

1997

Platform:

Mitsubishi Space Star (shared platform with Colt Plus and Lancer)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Family Car / Small Family Car

Target Audience:

Families and individuals seeking a practical and reliable vehicle for daily use.

Key Competitors:

Ford Focus, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf, Peugeot 306, Fiat Bravo/Brava

Design Philosophy:

Practicality, reliability, and a comfortable ride, with a distinctive Italian-influenced design by Robert Opron.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with factory-level knowledge for efficient and accurate maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair and Service

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory-level service manual)

Type:

Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Full Printable

Interactivity:

Zoom IN/OUT functionality

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent decompression utility)

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual and Automatic)

Chassis:

Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear, ABS if equipped), Wheel and Tire Specifications

Electrical:

Body Electrical Systems, Lighting Systems, Audio System, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbag), Instrument Cluster and Gauges, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)

Body:

Body and Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspections and Adjustments

Repair Procedures:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for Engine Control Unit, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed repair procedures, technical specifications, and diagnostic information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, allowing for easy navigation, searching, and printing.

Printability:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text and diagrams for printing.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital File)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Options:

Likely to include 4G9x series engines (e.g., 4G92, 4G93) and potentially the 6A1x V6 for higher trims (though less common for the 1997 model year in many markets).

Engine Configuration:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC or DOHC

Displacement Options:

Approximately 1.6L (1597cc) and 1.8L (1830cc) for inline-4 variants.

Horsepower Range:

Estimated 90-125 hp depending on engine variant and tuning.

Torque Range:

Estimated 130-165 Nm depending on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Cooling Type:

Water-Cooled

Emission Compliance:

Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) if applicable.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Type:

Likely to be API GL-4 or GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid, and ATF Dexron II/III for automatic transmissions. Specifics in manual.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated, Dry Single-Plate Clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4250 mm

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm

Height:

Approx. 1425 mm

Wheelbase Measurement:

Approx. 2600 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1200 - 1350 kg depending on engine and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1700 kg

Trunk Capacity:

Estimated 400-450 liters, expandable with rear seats folded.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

Likely tested by Euro NCAP or equivalent regional bodies. Specific ratings for 1997 model may vary. Expect frontal and side impact protection.

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) likely an optional feature on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) may have been available as an option on some higher-spec models.

Airbags:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags standard. Side airbags may have been optional.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants, 3-point or lap belts for rear occupants.

Chassis Design:

Crumple zones designed for energy absorption in impact.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player, possibly with CD changer input. Likely 4 or 6 speaker system.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning standard on most models, automatic climate control potentially available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option or standard on higher trim levels.

Early Electronic Features:

Power windows, power door locks, remote central locking (depending on trim level).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Specifics detailed in manual.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-40,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions. Specifics in manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Typically 30,000-100,000 km. Specifics in manual.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for interference engines. Recommended every 80,000-100,000 km or 5-7 years. Manual will specify, and this is a critical item.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate. Manual will specify exact API and viscosity grades.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, typically a green or pink long-life coolant. Manual will specify precise type and mixture ratio.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the required standard.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension components (bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers), exhaust system corrosion, clutch wear, minor electrical gremlins.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Timing belt integrity is paramount. Potential for oil leaks from gaskets and seals over time. Some models might experience issues with idle control valves or EGR systems.

Standard Tire Sizes:

Commonly 185/65R14 or 195/60R15 depending on trim level. Specifics in manual.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Likely 4x100 or 4x114.3. Manual will provide exact specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Founded in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its innovative technology and diverse vehicle range.

Carisma Introduction:

Launched in 1995 as a successor to the Mitsubishi Lancer in European markets, designed in collaboration with Volvo and focused on comfort and practicality.

1997 Model Year Updates:

Minor updates or refinements may have occurred, but the core design and platform remained consistent with its introduction.

Production Locations:

Primarily produced at the NedCar plant in Born, Netherlands, a joint venture with Volvo.

Production Years:

1995-2003

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1997 Carisma are not widely publicized, the model was generally considered a competent and reliable family car in its segment during its production run.