🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Year:

1998

Chassis Code Range:

CK series (e.g., CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CK5A, CK6A, CK8A, CK9A)

Platform:

Mitsubishi Compact Platform (shared with Colt, Mirage, and other regional variants)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car / Subcompact car (depending on region and specific model variant).

Target Audience:

Primarily professional automotive technicians, but accessible to skilled DIY mechanics.

Key Competitors Era:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323/Familia.

Reliability Reputation:

Generally known for good reliability and robust mechanicals, typical of Japanese automakers.

Driving Dynamics:

Often praised for balanced handling and a sporty feel, especially in performance-oriented variants.

Value Proposition:

Offered a good blend of features, performance, and affordability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete repair and service procedures for the 1998 Mitsubishi Colt Lancer.

Regional Variations Addressed:

While primarily focused on a global spec, may contain information relevant to various international market configurations.

Estimated Pages:

1500+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, repair, and component specifications for all engine variants (e.g., 4G92, 4G93, 4G94).

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, ignition control module.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant specifications, pressure testing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, emission control components.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearshift mechanism, internal components, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, internal gear sets, hydraulic control, fluid specifications, electronic control unit (ECU) interface.

Drivetrain AWD:

Transfer case, propeller shaft, rear differential, viscous coupling unit (if equipped).

Suspension Front:

MacPherson strut, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Independent multi-link or semi-trailing arm, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering column, fluid type and capacity.

Brake System Front:

Ventilated disc brakes, calipers, brake pads, rotors, hydraulic lines.

Brake System Rear:

Disc or drum brakes, calipers/wheel cylinders, brake pads/shoes, rotors/drums.

ABS:

Anti-lock braking system components, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator, control module.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system.

ECM ECU:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, parameters, and troubleshooting.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, interior and exterior lighting.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant, service procedures.

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, trim panel replacement, airbag system precautions.

Body Exterior:

Door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, panel alignment, glass replacement.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system components, SRS module, seat belt mechanisms, pre-tensioners.

Maintenance:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all systems.

Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for major component overhauls (engine, transmission).

Diagnosis:

Advanced diagnostic techniques, scan tool usage, electrical circuit testing.

Calibration Adjustment:

Wheel alignment, idle speed adjustment, ignition timing setting (if adjustable).

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostics Focus:

In-depth diagnostic trees and electrical schematics for accurate fault identification.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Clearances Tolerances:

Specified engine and component clearances for proper assembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for easy navigation.

Printability:

Printable format for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

Varies, but typical factory manuals have clear line drawings and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Common:

4G92 (1.6L SOHC/DOHC), 4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC), 4G94 (2.0L SOHC)

Displacement Options:

1.3L, 1.5L, 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L (depending on market and trim)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 80 hp (1.3L) to 135 hp (1.8L DOHC/2.0L DOHC) for standard variants. Performance models like the Lancer Evolution (though distinct, shares lineage) had significantly higher outputs.

Torque Range:

Approximately 110 Nm (1.3L) to 170 Nm (1.8L DOHC).

Injection Type:

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

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

Block Material:

Cast iron (4G9 series)

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) with 4 valves per cylinder.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on select performance or higher trim models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diamond SP-III (Mitsubishi Genuine ATF SP-III) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4245 mm (Sedan), 4195 mm (Hatchback)

Width:

Approx. 1690 mm

Height:

Approx. 1390 mm (Sedan), 1400 mm (Hatchback)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2500 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1050 kg - 1250 kg (depending on engine and body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 1600-1800 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

Information varies by testing agency (e.g., NHTSA, IIHS) and market. Generally, vehicles of this era offered moderate safety, with improvements in later generations. Specific 1998 ratings should be researched for individual markets.

ABS Availability:

Available on higher trim levels or as an option.

Traction Control:

Rarely equipped on standard models of this year.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags were becoming standard or optional.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, potentially with pre-tensioners for front occupants.

Body Structure:

Reinforced cabin structure (e.g., RISE - Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution body).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette player or CD player, with basic speaker configurations. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with A/C and heater.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Parking Assistance:

Not typically equipped with factory parking sensors or backup cameras.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

Usb Ports:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for standard copper plugs, longer for iridium/platinum (if applicable).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. The 4G9 series engines are typically interference engines, making timely belt replacement crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Specification:

Mitsubishi Genuine Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings (control arms, sway bar links), exhaust system components (muffler, catalytic converter), engine mounts, clutch wear (manual transmission).

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, failing window regulators, minor dashboard light issues.

Engine Specific:

Carbon buildup on intake valves (especially DOHC engines), potential for head gasket issues if overheated, oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets.

Transmission Specific:

Manual transmissions can develop worn synchros. Automatic transmissions may require regular fluid changes to maintain longevity; slipping can indicate wear or hydraulic issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors History:

Founded in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, including iconic performance cars and practical everyday transportation.

Lancer Generations:

The 1998 model falls into the fifth generation (1995-2000) of the Lancer, which saw significant styling updates and mechanical refinements over its predecessor. This generation also served as the base for the legendary Lancer Evolution performance variants.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced in Japan, with significant production facilities also located in various international markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards History:

While the standard Lancer/Colt variants did not receive major 'car of the year' awards typically, the Lancer platform itself, especially the Evolution models, garnered significant recognition in motorsports and enthusiast circles for performance and rally prowess.