Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback, part of the popular Lancer lineup, was positioned as a practical yet sporty compact hatchback, offering versatility and engaging driving dynamics. It competed in a crowded segment against vehicles like the Honda Civic Hatchback, Mazda3 Hatchback, and Volkswagen Golf.
Competitive Analysis:
This manual provides the essential information for owners and technicians to maintain and repair the Lancer Sportback, ensuring its performance and longevity against its key competitors. Its focus on practical application and detailed procedures makes it invaluable.
Key Features:
Comprehensive coverage of all major vehicle systems, detailed troubleshooting guides, clear step-by-step repair instructions, extensive use of diagrams and illustrations, accurate torque specifications, and essential maintenance schedules.
Diagnostic Tools Info:
Guidance on using onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) systems and recommended diagnostic tools for troubleshooting.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Starting and charging system, Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (hydraulic and ABS), Body electrical, HVAC system, Body panels and structure, Interior components, Wiring diagrams, Troubleshooting guides, Specifications, Torque values, Diagnostic procedures.
Body And Chassis:
Includes detailed procedures for body panel removal/installation, frame straightening, interior trim, glass replacement, and underbody components.
Climate Control:
Detailed diagnosis and repair of HVAC system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motor.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Component removal and installation, Diagnosis and troubleshooting of common faults, Overhaul and repair of major components, Wiring harness repair, Electrical system diagnostics, Body repair, Alignment specifications, Brake bleeding, Clutch operation, Engine tuning, Emissions control system diagnosis.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, aiding in efficient problem identification.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine management, body control modules, lighting, and accessories.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring schematics.
Engine Rebuild Depth:
Detailed specifications for engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement of wear, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly with precise torque values.
File Format:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmarked chapters for easy navigation.
Print Quality:
Printable at home or print shop quality.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Manual Completeness:
This is a comprehensive workshop manual, covering all systems and procedures for the specified model years and variants.
Engine Options Covered:
4B10 (1.8L MIVEC I4) and 4B11 (2.0L MIVEC I4), depending on regional market and trim level.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 140-168 hp (103-124 kW) depending on engine and market.
Torque Range:
Approximately 125-145 lb-ft (169-197 Nm) depending on engine and market.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential multi-point fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Engine Codes:
4B10 (1.8L), 4B11 (2.0L).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., W5MBB).
Optional Transmission:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-III Sport Mode CVT or INVECS-II Sport Mode AT) depending on market and trim.
Transmission Features:
Manual clutch operation, hydraulic clutch actuation. CVT features can include artificial gear shifts for a more traditional feel.
Overall Length:
Approximately 4,585 mm (180.5 in).
Overall Width:
Approximately 1,760 mm (69.3 in).
Overall Height:
Approximately 1,490 mm (58.7 in).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,635 mm (103.7 in).
Front Overhang:
Approx. 905 mm (35.6 in)
Rear Overhang:
Approx. 1045 mm (41.1 in)
Cargo Volume:
Approximately 340 - 410 liters (12.0 - 14.5 cu ft) with rear seats up, expandable with seats folded.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1,350 - 1,450 kg (2,976 - 3,197 lbs) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically rated 4 or 5 stars for frontal and side impact in its class (varies by year and specific test).
IIHS Ratings:
Varies by year; often received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in frontal offset and side impact tests.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Stability Control (ASC) on certain trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (standard on many trims), three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Base models featured a basic AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Higher trims offered Rockford-Fosgate premium audio systems, SiriusXM satellite radio, and optional touch-screen navigation systems with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Driver Assistance Features:
Availability of features like keyless entry and start, cruise control, and automatic climate control depending on trim level. Advanced driver-assistance systems were less common in this era for this segment.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (on equipped models), USB input for audio playback, iPod integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically require replacement around 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for 4B1 engines.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-20 synthetic engine oil (API SN, ILSAC GF-5 or equivalent).
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent P-HOAT/Si-OAT coolant (typically pink).
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-80 or equivalent manual transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid Spec Cvt:
Mitsubishi CVTF-J1 or equivalent CVT fluid.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF SP-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (check specific vehicle application, as some may use dedicated power steering fluid).
Known Issues:
Some models may experience premature wear of front suspension components (control arms, ball joints), occasional issues with CVT sensors or valve bodies, and potential minor electrical gremlins. Early models might have had some exhaust manifold cracking issues, though less common than on some other vehicles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 liters (4.2 - 4.8 US quarts) for 1.8L and 2.0L engines (excluding filter, check manual for precise capacity).
Cooling System Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 - 6.5 liters (6.3 - 6.9 US quarts).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Cvt:
Approximately 5.0 - 5.5 liters (5.3 - 5.8 US quarts) for CVT (initial fill).
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for rally-bred performance vehicles (like the Lancer Evolution) and a focus on value and durability in its mainstream models.
Model Evolution:
The Lancer Sportback (also known as Galant Fortis Sportback in some markets) is part of the tenth generation of the Lancer platform, which saw a significant redesign with a more aggressive styling and improved platform (GS platform shared with the Outlander).
Production Period:
This generation of the Lancer, including the Sportback variant, was produced from late 2007 through 2017, with the 2008-2010 models representing the initial phase of this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations.
