🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Plymouth Laser

Year:

1991

Platform Code:

D31A (Eclipse), P31A (Laser/Talon)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Sport compact car, popular for its performance, styling, and affordability. Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, and Nissan 240SX.

Competitive Analysis:

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser were products of a joint venture between Mitsubishi Motors and Chrysler. They offered a compelling package of sporty design, powerful engine options (including turbocharged variants), and front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, making them strong contenders in the sport compact segment of the early 1990s.

Key Features:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, available turbocharged engines, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, independent front and rear suspension, front-wheel-drive (FWD) options.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed Book (indicated by description, digital format often specified)

Vehicle Variants Covered:

Covers all trim levels and engine options for the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser for the specified years, including FWD and AWD variants.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Clutch System, Transfer Case (AWD), Drive Shafts, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc/Drum), Wheel Bearings

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System Wiring, ECU/ECM Diagnostics

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seats, HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

Comfort And Convenience:

HVAC system operation and repair, power windows, power locks, cruise control (if equipped), interior lighting.

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspections and Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Tire Rotation

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation and Resolution

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Timing Specifications, Electrical Component Values

Body And Trim Repair:

Includes procedures for removing and installing interior and exterior trim pieces, door panels, bumpers, and glass.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

Details on using Mitsubishi's proprietary diagnostic tools and procedures for the era, including reading diagnostic codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Assuming Printed)

Searchability:

If digital (PDF), it is likely searchable by keyword, providing quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High (Typical for factory service manuals)

Binding Type:

Spiral Bound or Perfect Bound (Common for workshop manuals)

Paper Type:

Durable, Glossy Paper Stock (Designed for shop use)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

4G63 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine 1 Type:

2.0L Inline 4-Cylinder SOHC

Engine 1 Displacement Cc:

1997

Engine 1 Horsepower:

135 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:

125 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine 2 Code:

4G63T (Turbocharged)

Engine 2 Type:

2.0L Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC Turbocharged

Engine 2 Displacement Cc:

1997

Engine 2 Horsepower:

195 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:

203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine 3 Code:

4G64 (Optional on some non-turbo models, less common for this specific manual period but worth noting for broader platform context)

Engine 3 Type:

2.4L Inline 4-Cylinder SOHC

Engine 3 Displacement Cc:

2351

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 140-150 hp (varies slightly by year/market)

Engine 3 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 145-155 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery System:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for both naturally aspirated and turbocharged models.

Turbocharged Performance:

Known for its strong performance, especially the turbocharged models, which were highly regarded for their tuning potential.

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic

AWD Availability:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was an option on turbocharged models, significantly enhancing handling and traction.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.1 inches

Width:

69.1 inches

Height:

50.2 inches

Wheelbase:

98.9 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.5 - 6.0 inches (varies by trim and suspension)

Curb Weight Approx Fw:

2800 - 2900 lbs (FWD)

Curb Weight Approx AWD:

3100 - 3200 lbs (AWD)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating 1990:

Likely 4-star for driver in frontal crash for non-airbag models (based on contemporary standards). Airbags were optional and availability varied by trim.

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models, especially performance-oriented trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts, reinforced body structure, optional driver and passenger airbags on later production models or higher trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems were available. Digital clock.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). No electronic stability control or traction control systems were standard or widely available on these early models.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; aftermarket solutions are necessary.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 70,000 miles or 5 years for the 4G63/4G63T engines. This is a critical maintenance item, as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent) recommended for prolonged protection.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent power steering fluid.

Turbo Systems:

Turbocharger failures (especially on high-mileage cars), oil leaks, turbo hose cracks. Regular oil changes are crucial for turbo longevity.

Engine 4G63T:

Head gasket issues can occur, particularly if the engine has been modified or driven hard without proper maintenance. Knock sensor failures can lead to reduced performance.

Suspension And Bushings:

Worn suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar) leading to noise and poor handling. CV joint wear, especially on AWD models.

Electrical Systems:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, failing power window motors, intermittent issues with dashboard gauges, ECU failures on some models.

Exhaust System:

Rust and corrosion of exhaust components, particularly in areas with harsh climates.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch wear and failure can occur on manual transmission vehicles with high mileage or aggressive driving.

Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:

Approx. 4.5 Quarts (for 2.0L engines)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 Quarts

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.2 Quarts

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Quarts (total fill)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 45,000 miles or 24 months. Some sources recommend checking and topping off more frequently.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors has a history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles. The Eclipse nameplate was a significant model for the brand in the North American market.

First Generation Introduction:

The first generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse (and its badge-engineered counterparts, Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser) was introduced for the 1990 model year. It replaced the Mitsubishi Starion.

Joint Venture Significance:

The Diamond-Star Motors joint venture allowed Mitsubishi to leverage Chrysler's North American distribution network, making these sporty cars more accessible to a wider audience.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (as part of the Diamond-Star Motors joint venture with Chrysler).

First Generation Production:

1990-1994

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The Mitsubishi Eclipse and its siblings were frequently praised by automotive journalists for their performance, styling, and value, often appearing on 'best of' lists for their segment during the early 1990s.