Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX (Evo9) is a legendary performance sedan, renowned for its all-wheel-drive system, potent turbocharged engine, and rally-bred heritage. It competed in a niche but highly coveted segment of sports sedans and performance cars.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (in spirit, if not direct AWD competitor).
Performance Highlights:
Advanced Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, potent 4G63 MIVEC engine, aggressive aerodynamics, focused chassis tuning.
Manual Value Proposition:
This factory workshop manual is the definitive guide for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, repair, or optimize the 2006 Mitsubishi Evo9. It provides the same in-depth information used by authorized Mitsubishi dealerships.
Engine:
4G63 MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4, engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, specifications, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions.
Transmission:
6-speed manual (GSR/MR), clutch system, drivetrain, transfer case, ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control) system.
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut, rear multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, Brembo braking system (optional), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution).
Electrical:
Full electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit), body control module, lighting, power windows, locks, audio system.
Body:
Body shell, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, aerodynamic components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, climate control module.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic procedures, fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Repair:
Component-level repair, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild.
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures, timing belt replacement, turbocharger replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control), Turbocharged
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower:
286 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/UKDM spec), 276 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM spec)
Torque:
289 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM/UKDM spec), 286 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM spec)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Twin-Scroll MHI TD05H-16G turbocharger
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag)
Type:
N/A (Evo9 was primarily manual)
All Wheel Drive:
S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) with ACD (Active Center Differential) and AYC (Active Yaw Control) on select models (e.g., MR)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (2006 model year testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Standard, often integrated with S-AWC
Stability Control:
Standard (ASC - Active Stability Control)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Body Structure:
Reinforced body structure with crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system. Limited digital connectivity by modern standards.
Display:
Basic LCD display for clock, radio, and climate control.
Active Aero:
Rear wing and front splitter for aerodynamic downforce.
AWD System:
S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) is the defining technology, featuring ACD (Active Center Differential) and AYC (Active Yaw Control) for dynamic torque distribution.
Aux Input:
Some models may have an auxiliary audio input.
Bluetooth:
Not available in factory configuration.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty).
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect at 30,000 miles, replace as needed (platinum tipped recommended).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or equivalent (check manual for exact specs, synthetic recommended for performance driving)
Engine Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (specific Mitsubishi DiaQueen SSG recommended for optimal shifting)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (specific Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD recommended)
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (specific Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD recommended)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-performance fluid recommended for spirited driving)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent
Engine:
Connecting rod failures at high power levels, turbocharger wear, valve stem seal issues leading to oil consumption.
Transmission:
Wear in the 5th and 6th gears in high-mileage or abused transmissions, issues with ACD/AYC pump.
Suspension:
Bushings can wear over time, leading to imprecise handling. Sway bar end links are a common wear item.
Electrical:
Evo-specific issues can include ECU failures or sensor malfunctions. Check grounds and connectors.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a strong motorsport background, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where the Lancer Evolution series achieved iconic status.
Evolution Line:
The Evo9 represents the pinnacle of the CT9A platform, building upon the success of the Evo VIII with a significant engine upgrade (MIVEC) and refinements to the S-AWC system. It was the last generation to use the iconic 4G63 engine before the transition to the 4B11T in the Evo X.
Production Years:
2005-2007 (for the Evo IX generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Motorsport:
Consistently ranked among the top performance cars and rally homologation specials. Often cited for its direct connection to WRC success.
Performance Car Awards:
Frequent recipient of 'Best Sports Car' or 'Performance Car of the Year' awards from automotive publications during its production run.
Handling Dynamics:
Universally praised for its exceptional handling, grip, and driver feedback.