🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Outlander

Generation:

First Generation

Model Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Chassis Codes:

CU2W, CU4W

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking practical, versatile transportation with available AWD.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Nissan X-Trail (also known as Rogue in some markets).

Unique Selling Points:

Available third-row seating (optional on some trims), distinctive styling, Mitsubishi's reputation for reliability and value, often competitive pricing.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics efficiently and correctly, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (primarily North America, Europe, and Asia, reflecting common specifications for these markets)

Trim Levels Covered:

ES, LS, XLS (and equivalent international market trims)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, axles, differential

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, EBD), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, climate control, audio systems, power accessories, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, wiring diagrams

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, glass, sunroof (if equipped), collision repair procedures

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections

Repair:

Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, component-level repair, troubleshooting guides

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance analysis

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic values

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.4L:

4G69

Engine Description 2.4L:

2.4-liter inline-4 SOHC 16-valve MIVEC

Displacement 2.4L:

2351 cc (143.5 cu in)

Horsepower 2.4L:

160 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2.4L:

162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 3.0L:

6G72 (SOHC V6)

Engine Description 3.0L:

3.0-liter SOHC V6 24-valve

Displacement 3.0L:

2972 cc (181.4 cu in)

Horsepower 3.0L:

200 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 3.0L:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)

🔧 Transmission

Type 2.4L:

5-speed manual

Type 2.4L And 3.0L:

4-speed automatic INVECS-II (with Sportronic sequential shift mode)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with electronically controlled coupling (Sport-Traction AWD system).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

DIAQueen ATF-SPII or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or SAE 75W-90 gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,590 mm (180.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,775 mm (69.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,620 - 1,650 mm (63.8 - 65.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,625 mm (103.3 in)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (optional third row)

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approx. 454 liters (16.0 cu ft) with 5-seater configuration.

Cargo Volume Behind First Row:

Approx. 1,191 liters (42.1 cu ft) with 5-seater configuration and second row folded.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,500 - 1,700 kg (3,300 - 3,750 lbs) depending on engine and drivetrain.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:

Four Stars (2005 model year, approximate)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:

Four Stars (2005 model year, approximate)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (2005 model year, approximate)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags and curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Seats:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with optional premium Rockford Fosgate audio system on higher trims. Auxiliary input jacks may be present.

Navigation:

Optional in-dash navigation system available on some higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors are standard or available depending on trim.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles (6,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace approximately every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium).

Timing Belt Or Chain:

2.4L (4G69) uses a timing chain (maintenance-free under normal conditions). 3.0L V6 (6G72) uses a timing belt, typically requiring replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher) is generally recommended. Check dipstick for capacity.

Coolant:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent OAT coolant. Capacity approx. 7.5 L (7.9 US qt).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Automatic transmission fluid (DIAQueen ATF-SPII or equivalent) or power steering fluid specified by Mitsubishi.

Engine Noise 2.4L:

Some owners have reported piston slap noise, particularly on cold starts. Generally considered cosmetic if not accompanied by performance issues.

Transmission Performance:

Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission, often resolvable with a fluid change or software update.

Suspension Components:

Front suspension components like control arm bushings and sway bar links may wear over time, leading to knocking noises or uneven tire wear.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can sometimes fail, leading to windows getting stuck.

Climate Control:

Heater control valves or blower motor resistors can be potential failure points.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Legacy:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its robust engineering and diverse product line, including trucks, SUVs, and passenger cars.

Outlander Introduction:

The first-generation Outlander (codenamed CU#W) was introduced in Japan in 2001 and globally in 2003, based on Mitsubishi's GS platform, which was shared with the Mitsubishi Lancer. It was designed to offer a blend of SUV practicality and car-like driving dynamics.

Model Facelift:

A minor facelift occurred for the 2007 model year, marking the start of the second generation. The 2003-2006 models represent the initial production run.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at the Mizushima Plant in Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards for this generation might be scarce, the Outlander generally performed adequately in safety tests of its era, contributing to Mitsubishi's overall market perception.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied year-to-year, with some model years receiving average to above-average scores, while others saw issues related to the powertrain or electrical systems.

Emission Standards:

Complies with US EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years.