Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI (Evo 6) is a legendary homologation special, revered for its rally-bred performance and advanced four-wheel-drive system. This manual targets owners and enthusiasts seeking to maintain, repair, and optimize this iconic performance vehicle.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Lancia Delta Integrale (earlier generation).
Vehicle Features:
Aggressive aerodynamics, advanced Active Yaw Control (AYC) system, potent turbocharged engine, robust chassis, rally-inspired interior.
Value Proposition:
This manual provides the definitive guide for maintaining and repairing the Evo 6, offering detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams that replicate factory service information, crucial for preserving the performance and longevity of this enthusiast vehicle.
Engine:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual (GSR/RS) and Automatic (optional), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, transfer case, gearbox overhaul.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications, strut replacement.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, hydraulic system bleeding.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, fuses and relays, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics, sensors.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, bumpers, seat adjustments, safety restraint systems (airbags).
Chassis:
Frame construction, subframes, steering system, power steering, wheel hub assembly, wheel alignment.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission repair, clutch replacement, turbocharger servicing, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, electrical system fault finding.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4)
Displacement:
1997 cc (122 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European spec, often underestimated)
Torque:
370 Nm (273 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (JDM/European spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), multi-point sequential injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON minimum recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (later models may feature slightly different variants) with intercooler.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for spirited driving, conforming to API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B4 specifications.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change).
Timing Belt:
152 teeth, to be replaced every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Type:
5-speed Manual (Type-R/GSR)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (rare, primarily for non-performance variants)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Yaw Control (AYC) for performance variants, ACD (Active Center Differential).
Manual Fluid:
API GL-4/GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic transmission oil.
Automatic Fluid:
Mitsubishi DIAQueen ATF-SP II M or equivalent.
Final Drive Ratio:
4.5625:1 (typical for GSR/RS)
Crash Test Results:
No official NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings available for this period's homologation specials; designed for motorsport safety features.
AWD:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) for enhanced traction and cornering stability.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Chassis:
Reinforced body structure, integrated roll cage components in RS variants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and 4-6 speakers. Upgraded aftermarket systems are common.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital odometer, tachometer, speedometer, boost gauge (often integrated into the center console), fuel, temperature, and oil pressure gauges.
Traction Control:
Incorporated into ACD and AYC systems, providing advanced traction and stability management.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on certain trim levels (GSR).
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially with spirited driving.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 5,000 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000 miles.
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (iridium plugs). Check gap before installation.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles for manual, 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi ATF SP-II or Dexron II/III compatible fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (preferably high-performance DOT 4) synthetic brake fluid.
Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (less common on Evo VI than earlier models but still possible), turbocharger oil starvation, connecting rod failures if not maintained properly or pushed beyond limits without upgrades.
Ayc:
AYC pump failure, leakage in the hydraulic system, faulty sensors. Regular fluid checks are crucial.
Clutch:
Wear on clutch components, especially in high-performance driving scenarios. Clutch pedal engagement issues can indicate wear.
Rust:
Potential for rust in wheel arches, sills, and around the rear window, especially in regions with salt usage.
Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation, sensor failures (e.g., crank angle sensor, boost pressure sensor).
Motorsport Link:
Mitsubishi's extensive rallying heritage, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), directly influenced the development of the Lancer Evolution series.
Evo Vi Development:
The Evo VI built upon the Evo V, featuring updated aerodynamics (larger front bumper openings, fog light covers deleted for aero), stronger internal engine components, and refined AYC system. The Tommi Mäkinen Edition (Evo VI T.M. Edition) was a special variant celebrating Mäkinen's WRC titles.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Variants:
GSR (Grand Sport Racing), RS (Rally Sport - lighter, more basic, homologation focus), RS Sprint (limited edition), Tommi Mäkinen Edition.