Segment:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Competitive Landscape:
Competed against vehicles like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Subaru Impreza, Nissan Sentra.
Design Philosophy:
The Lancer of this era was known for its sporty styling, responsive handling, and value proposition, particularly in its Evolution (Evo) variants which were performance icons.
Target Audience:
Younger drivers, budget-conscious buyers, enthusiasts seeking a sporty yet practical vehicle.
Primary User:
Mechanical technicians and qualified DIY mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine control system (ECU), emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (CVT for some variants, conventional AT for others). Clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, torque converter (for AT/CVT).
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link), steering system (power steering), braking system (ABS, EBD, disc/drum configurations), wheel and tire specifications, drive shafts, differentials.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay assignments, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seating systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), airbags, body repair procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, symptom-based diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), electrical system diagnosis, fuel system testing, mechanical component testing.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Technical Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances and tolerances, diagnostic parameters, wiring schematics, component testing procedures, fluid capacities and specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork.
Engine Code Base:
4G1x series (e.g., 4G15, 4G18) or 4G9x series (e.g., 4G93, 4G94) depending on market and trim.
Displacement Common:
1.5L (1499cc), 1.6L (1584cc), 2.0L (1998cc) - specific to models like ES, DE, GTS, Ralliart, Evolution.
Cylinders Configuration:
Inline-4
Valvetrain:
SOHC or DOHC with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on certain variants.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 105 hp (1.5L) to 152 hp (2.0L GTS). Evolution variants significantly higher (e.g., 291 hp for Evo IX MR, 300+ hp for Evo X for the next generation, but relevant for context).
Torque Range:
Approx. 100 lb-ft (1.5L) to 140 lb-ft (2.0L GTS).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio capability.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Available on certain trims.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free calling system on some later models or as an aftermarket addition.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,750 to 7,500 miles (6,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For standard spark plugs, around 30,000-60,000 miles. For iridium or platinum plugs (if equipped), intervals can extend to 60,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 is common for most engines. Check manual for specific API service classification (e.g., API SN/SP).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN SUPER LONG LIFE COOLANT (Green or Pink variant depending on vehicle specifics) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate anti-corrosion additives. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic/Cvt:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or CVT fluid as specified by Mitsubishi (e.g., DIA QUEEN ATF SP III or J4 for CVTs). Crucial to use the correct type.
Cvt Issues:
Some early CVT models may experience premature wear or shuddering if fluid is not changed at recommended intervals or if the incorrect fluid is used. Overheating can also be a factor.
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration felt in the cabin.
Suspension Components:
Front sway bar links and rear trailing arm bushings can wear, causing clunking noises and affecting handling.
Minor Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional reports of minor electrical issues, such as window regulators or door lock actuators, though not widespread.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust engineering and rally-inspired performance vehicles like the Lancer Evolution.
Generation:
This Lancer is part of the eighth generation (CY/CZ chassis code in Japan, CS/CT chassis in global markets), which began production in 2007.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, but also assembled in other Mitsubishi plants globally depending on market.
