Positioning:
The Mitsubishi 380 was a large family sedan exclusive to the Australian market, positioned as a comfortable and reliable option with a focus on practicality and value.
Competitors:
Competed with established Australian sedans such as the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon, as well as imported Japanese sedans like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful V6 engine, strong safety features for its era, Australian engineering and tuning.
Full Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trims, and Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical service manuals for this era are 1000+ pages, specific count not provided but described as 'comprehensive').
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Digital Format:
HTML (PDF compatible for printing)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, power windows, power seats, HVAC controls, audio system, body control modules, wiring diagrams.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, body repair procedures.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake component servicing, including disc and pad replacement, caliper overhaul, hydraulic system bleeding.
Steering System:
Power steering system maintenance, rack and pinion inspection, tie rod end replacement, steering column adjustments.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, fuel injector servicing, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, circuit descriptions, and diagnostic steps for electrical faults.
Drivetrain Component Repair:
Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, transmission servicing (both auto and manual), drive shafts, and differentials.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repairs. Includes exploded views.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes information on diagnostic connectors and potential use of scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data analysis.
Engine Type:
6G75 V6 SOHC
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3828 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 235 hp (175 kW) @ 5250 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Note: Manual states it covers both gasoline and diesel if applicable, but 380 was gasoline-only in Australia).
Length:
Approximately 4880 mm (192.1 in)
Width:
Approximately 1785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
Approximately 1435 mm (56.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2720 mm (107.1 in)
Trunk Capacity:
Generous for its class, designed for family use.
Kerb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lbs) depending on trim and features.
Ancap Rating:
Achieved 4-star ANCAP safety rating during its production period.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) often available or standard on higher trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags available depending on trim level.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner seatbelts, load limiters.
Audio System:
Factory fitted audio systems with CD player, radio, and speaker configurations varied by trim. Higher trims may have premium sound systems.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, with detailed troubleshooting in the manual.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Phone Integration:
Limited for the era, potentially Bluetooth hands-free on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 12 months or 15,000 km (9,375 miles), whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 24 months or 30,000 km (18,750 miles), or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 90,000-100,000 km for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual, likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SN/SM or ILSAC GF-5 compliant. (Manual will specify exact grade and capacity).
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for automatic transmission fluid (ATF) specification and capacity. Likely a specific Mitsubishi ATF type.
Coolant:
Refer to manual for type and capacity. Likely a long-life OAT coolant (e.g., Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant).
Common Problems:
Some reports of minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints) due to road conditions, occasional transmission solenoid issues. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these.
Timing Belt:
The 6G75 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which generally requires less maintenance but should still be inspected as per the manual's guidelines.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi Australia's strong heritage in building locally-tailored vehicles for the Australian market.
Evolution:
Successor to the Mitsubishi Magna and Verada, based on a revised platform of the Mitsubishi Galant (CMS platform).
Production Location:
Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
Production End Reason:
Concluded Mitsubishi's local manufacturing in Australia, with production ceasing in 2008.
