Segment:
Compact/Mid-size hatchback, positioned as a practical and versatile option within the Lancer lineup.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles like the Honda Civic Hatchback, Mazda3 Hatchback, Volkswagen Golf, and Subaru Impreza Hatchback.
Design Philosophy:
Combines the sporty styling cues of the Lancer sedan with the increased practicality of a hatchback body style.
Target Audience:
Drivers seeking a blend of sporty aesthetics, everyday usability, and the potential for spirited driving.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel, emission control, intake, exhaust systems
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, charging system, ECU, sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (AT) overhaul, components, control, fluid specifications, manual transmission (MT) if applicable
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack, hydraulic components
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, discs, pads, calipers, ABS, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, bleeding procedures
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, structural components
Electrical Body:
Lighting systems, wipers, washers, horn, power windows, locks, mirrors, interior electronics, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing radiators, alternators, starters, fuel pumps, suspension parts, etc.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair, fuse and relay identification
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system.
Engine Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2378 cc)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 160 hp @ 5500-6000 RPM
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 157 lb-ft @ 3750-4000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 98.0 mm
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4515 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Varies by trim, typically around 5.5 - 6.0 inches
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 14.3 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 40.1 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000 - 3200 lbs (1361 - 1451 kg), varies by trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 4000-4100 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger, often cited for comparable Lancer models of this era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable Lancer models of this era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) often paired with ABS
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags (standard on most trims), optional curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH child seat anchors
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate) available on higher trims. Aux input may be present on later models or aftermarket.
Display:
Basic digital or analog displays for climate control and audio. No integrated navigation or touchscreens typical of modern vehicles.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Usb Port:
Not standard; typically requires aftermarket modification or availability on very late production models/specific packages.
Bluetooth:
Not standard; available via aftermarket kits or specific trim packages on some markets.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect/replace every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at approximately 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect fluid level and condition regularly. Replace every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per manual recommendation, especially under severe driving conditions.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear leading to increased vibration, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional issues with solenoid packs or torque converter, particularly if maintenance is neglected. Shifting can become harsh.
Suspension Components:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and struts can lead to noise and poor handling over time.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise (humming/whining) with age and mileage.
Cv Boots:
Tears in CV joint boots can lead to grease leakage and premature wear of the joint.
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker known for its engineering prowess, particularly in performance-oriented vehicles and four-wheel-drive systems.
Lancer Generations:
The 2004 Lancer SportBack belongs to the seventh generation (CS/CT platform) of the Mitsubishi Lancer, which debuted in 2000. The SportBack variant, introduced later, offered a more practical hatchback body style.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some regional assembly plants also in operation.
Production Years Seventh Gen:
2000-2007 (with facelifts).