Model Alias:
Dingo (Japan), Chariot (some markets), Grandis (later generations, related platform)
Generation Designation:
First Generation (DE/DG platform)
Chassis Codes:
DE2A, DE3A, DG1A, DG4A
Engine Codes Covered:
4G13, 4G15, 4G93, 4G94, 6G72 (V6)
Transmission Codes Covered:
F4A41, F5A51, V5A51 (Automatic), W4A42 (Automatic), KM2M4 (Manual)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact MPV / Minivan
Target Audience:
Families seeking versatile and practical transportation, DIY mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey (older generations), Toyota Previa, Mazda MPV, Ford Windstar, Chrysler Voyager/Dodge Caravan.
Design Philosophy:
Compact exterior dimensions with surprisingly spacious and flexible interior seating and cargo configurations.
Unique Selling Points:
Sliding rear doors (on some configurations), versatile seating arrangements, compact footprint for urban maneuverability.
Covered Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Covered Regions:
Global Markets (North America, Europe, Asia - specific market variants may differ)
Page Count:
Approximately 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use.
Graphics Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Engine:
Complete engine repair, disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, timing belt replacement, valve adjustments, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission overhaul, repair, diagnosis, fluid changes, torque converter service, clutch replacement (manual).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differential service, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, wheel bearings, steering system (rack and pinion).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid bleeding, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake service.
Electrical System:
Charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wiper systems, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior trim, HVAC system, body sealing.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, climate control module.
Emissions:
Emissions control systems, EGR system, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Diagnostic Tools:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, sensor data interpretation.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, power steering fluid replacement, transmission fluid service, differential fluid changes.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuilding specifications, torque values, clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, including color codes and pinouts.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine 1 Variant:
1.3L Inline-4 (4G13 SOHC)
Engine 1 Displacement Cc:
1300
Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:
80-90
Engine 2 Variant:
1.5L Inline-4 (4G15 SOHC/DOHC)
Engine 2 Displacement Cc:
1500
Engine 2 Power Hp:
90-110
Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:
95-105
Engine 3 Variant:
1.8L Inline-4 (4G93 DOHC GDI/MPI)
Engine 3 Displacement Cc:
1830
Engine 3 Power Hp:
125-140
Engine 3 Torque Lb Ft:
120-130
Engine 4 Variant:
2.4L Inline-4 (4G94 DOHC GDI)
Engine 4 Displacement Cc:
2378
Engine 4 Power Hp:
150-160
Engine 4 Torque Lb Ft:
160-170
Engine 5 Variant:
3.0L V6 (6G72 SOHC)
Engine 5 Displacement Cc:
3000
Engine 5 Power Hp:
180-200
Engine 5 Torque Lb Ft:
185-200
Engine Management:
ECI Multi (Electronic Controlled Injection) or GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) for later models.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87-89 RON (Research Octane Number) / 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (FWD)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (FWD), 4-speed Automatic (AWD) with Active Transfer Case.
Automatic Transmission Features:
INVECS-II (Intelligent & Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) with artificial intelligence for adaptive shifting.
AWD System:
Viscous coupling center differential for full-time AWD (Super Select AWD for some variations).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 Gear Oil.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not Specifically Rated (typical for the era, often tested as part of larger family)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Acceptable (for comparable models of the era)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on higher trims and AWD models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats, three-point seatbelts for rear seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system available on rear seats.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Change:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (critical maintenance item for interference engines).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) depending on engine.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent P-HOAT (Phosphated Organic Acid Technology).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III.
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure on interference engines (critical to adhere to replacement schedule).
Common Problem 2:
Leaking valve cover gaskets and rear main seals.
Common Problem 3:
Worn CV joints and front suspension components (ball joints, bushings).
Common Problem 4:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, leading to loss of fan speed control.
Common Problem 5:
Automatic transmission clutch pack wear on high-mileage vehicles.
Common Problem 6:
EVAP system leaks (P0440, P0455 codes) often due to cracked hoses or faulty vent solenoids.