Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sports Car / Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Key Competitors 90S:
Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Honda Prelude
Vehicle Appeal:
Stylish design, sporty handling, accessible performance, customization potential
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential for diagnosing and repairing complex electrical issues, maintaining vehicle functionality, and performing custom modifications
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all electrical systems
Wiring Harnesses:
Detailed routing and connection points for all wiring harnesses
Components:
Specific diagrams for engine, chassis, body, lighting, audio, and climate control components
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 150-250 pages (typical for this type of manual)
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF) or Printed
Powertrain Electrical:
Engine control, fuel injection, ignition system wiring
Chassis Electrical:
Braking systems (ABS if applicable), suspension control, power steering
Body Electrical:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC), audio system, power seats, alarm system
Instrumentation Controls:
Gauges, warning lights, switches, steering wheel controls
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for electrical faults
Component Location:
Diagrams showing the physical location of electrical components and connectors
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Guidance on reading and understanding schematic symbols, wire colors, and connector pinouts
Fuse Relay Identification:
Detailed charts for fuse box locations, fuse ratings, and relay functions
Depth Level:
In-depth diagnostic and repair information for all electrical systems
Diagnostic Tools:
Implied usage of basic electrical testing tools like multimeters, continuity testers
Repair Procedures:
Guidance on connector repair, wire splicing, component replacement
Digital Format:
PDF (Searchable text, high-resolution diagrams)
Print Quality:
High-resolution for clarity of fine lines and labels
Binding:
Not Applicable (for digital) / Coil-bound or Paperback (for print)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (for digital) / Durable, matte finish paper (for print)
Base Engine 1:
2.4L SOHC Inline-4 (4G64)
Performance Base Engine 1:
Approx. 130-135 hp, 140-145 lb-ft torque
Performance Engine Options 2:
2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63T - specific to GS-T and Spyder GS-T models)
Performance Engine Options 2
Performance Engine Options 2 Hp:
Approx. 205-210 hp
Performance Engine Options 2 Torque:
Approx. 203-210 lb-ft torque
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based (depending on engine variant and market)
Base Model Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
Optional Model Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (with Sportronic on some models)
All Wheel Drive:
Available on certain turbocharged models (e.g., GSX, Spyder GSX), often referred to as 'Twin-Viscous Center Differential' (TV-DC) or similar AWD coupling systems.
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (specifics vary, consult service manual for exact fill)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent Dexron-II/III compatible fluid
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4515 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.9 inches (1318 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
Approx. 2900 - 3200 lbs (1315 - 1451 kg), varies significantly by model and drivetrain
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Up:
Approx. 8.8 cu ft (coupe models), larger in Spyder models with top down/up configurations
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 3-4 stars (based on typical mid-90s standards)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 3-4 stars (based on typical mid-90s standards)
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims or performance variants (e.g., GSX)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard on most models for 1996
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette with optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (e.g., 4-speaker or 6-speaker).
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this generation, primarily associated with AWD systems if present.
Pre Wired Options:
Pre-wired for optional anti-theft alarm systems, factory amplifier integration (if equipped).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (or 6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult owner's manual.
Timing Belt Interval:
Crucial for 4G63T engines: Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years, as it's an interference engine. 4G64 may have a different interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ, SF, SG rated oil (check owner's manual for precise recommendation and viscosity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a green or yellow type depending on OEM spec), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 4G64, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 4G63T
Electrical Common Faults:
Corroded grounds, failing power window motors, faulty window/door lock switches, ABS sensor issues, dashboard illumination problems
Powertrain Common Faults:
Turbocharger failure (4G63T), oil leaks, head gasket issues (especially on high-mileage turbo models), clutch wear
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common due to age and driving style.
Spark Plug Part Number Example
Spark Plugs 4G63T:
NGK BPR6ES or equivalent (check specific application for turbo boost)
Spark Plugs 4G64:
NGK BPR5ES or equivalent (check specific application)
Mitsubishi Motors Focus:
Known for robust engineering, often borrowing from rally and performance DNA (e.g., Lancer Evolution)
Eclipse Generation:
Second Generation (1995-1999). Introduced a more aerodynamic and sculpted design compared to the first generation.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser in North America, developed with Chrysler.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)
Model Production Start:
1989 (First Generation)
Model Production End:
2011 (Last Generation)
Automotive Press Reviews:
Often praised for its sporty styling and handling, particularly the turbocharged variants which were highly regarded for their performance in their class.
Performance Awards:
Turbocharged models were often benchmarks in affordable performance, appealing to tuners and performance enthusiasts.
