Positioning:
Iconic performance sedan, rally homologation special, highly sought after by enthusiasts for its raw performance and tuning potential.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (certain generations), Volkswagen Golf R.
Distinguishing Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with ACD/AYC, potent 4G63 MIVEC turbocharged engine, advanced differential technologies, aggressive styling, rally-bred heritage.
Manual Value Proposition:
The definitive guide for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of this legendary vehicle.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, turbocharging, MIVEC system, engine diagnostics
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual Transmission (GSR, RS), Transfer Case, ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), Driveshafts, Differentials (Front/Rear), Clutch system
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (Multi-link), Power steering system, Wheel alignment, Suspension components
Braking Systems:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes (Brembo option), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake hydraulics, Parking brake system
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, Starting and charging systems, Lighting, Instruments, Wiper/Washer systems, Audio system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and related sensors, Immobilizer, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Body Chassis:
Body structure, Exterior panels, Doors, Windows, Hood, Trunk, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement, Fluid checks and top-offs, Brake pad inspection
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, Piston/ring replacement, Cylinder head service, Timing belt/chain replacement, Turbocharger rebuild/replacement, MIVEC system diagnostics and repair
Drivetrain Repair:
Transmission removal/installation, Clutch replacement, Differential service, ACD/AYC system troubleshooting and repair, Driveshaft and U-joint service
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, Bushing replacement, Ball joint replacement, Tie rod end replacement, Steering rack service
Brake Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, Caliper service, Brake bleeding, ABS sensor replacement, ABS module troubleshooting
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, Fuse and relay identification, Component testing, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, Sensor testing
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, Dent repair, Door alignment, Glass replacement, Interior trim installation
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, clearances, and component tolerances.
Illustrations:
Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with MIVEC
Engine Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Turbocharger Spec:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G6-10.5T (or similar, depending on market/spec)
Horsepower Ps Usdm:
286 PS (approx. 282 hp) @ 6500 rpm
Torque Nm Usdm:
392 Nm (approx. 289 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Horsepower Ps Jdm:
280 PS (approx. 276 hp) @ 6500 rpm (often underestimated)
Torque Nm Jdm:
392 Nm (approx. 289 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (premium recommended)
Fuel System Components:
High-flow fuel injectors, electric fuel pump, Bosch ECU
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Transmission Gear Ratios Primary:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 2.750, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.030, 5th: 0.864, 6th: 0.760)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard for Evo IX)
Drivetrain Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch
Infotainment System:
Basic aftermarket or factory radio systems, typically single-DIN or double-DIN units with CD player and AM/FM radio. Bluetooth and navigation were not standard factory features on most models.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ACD, AYC. No electronic stability control (ESC) as standard on most markets/trims, though some later JDM models might have had it.
Connectivity Options:
Limited to factory radio connectivity (e.g., CD changer port), often upgraded with aftermarket head units for modern smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Every 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 7 years, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) - Iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
Fully Synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-30 (API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Transmission Fluid Type:
DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent (for manual transmission)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent (for AYC-equipped vehicles, specific LSD fluid is critical)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, turbocharger seal leaks, ACD pump failure, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, exhaust manifold cracks (under high stress).
Engine Specific Concerns:
Valve stem seals, PCV system clogging, oil slinger issues (if poorly maintained). MIVEC solenoid issues can arise with age/lack of maintenance.