Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution of this era (Evo VII-IX) is a legendary homologation special, renowned for its rally-bred performance, advanced all-wheel-drive systems (AYC/ACD), and turbocharged powertrain. It occupies a niche in the performance sedan market, appealing to enthusiasts and track-day participants.
Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, Subaru Impreza WRX.
Performance Focus:
Exceptional handling, potent turbocharged acceleration, advanced drivetrain for all-weather grip.
Utility:
Indispensable for owners seeking to maintain, repair, or diagnose their high-performance vehicle, offering factory-level accuracy and detail.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair for the Lancer Evolution VII, VIII, and IX models
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000+ (typical for full factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (delivered via email link after purchase)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, turbocharger system, transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, differentials (front, center, rear AYC/ACD)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and EBD), wheel alignment
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), lighting, safety systems (SRS airbag), audio system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (where applicable)
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, diagnostic tool usage
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, component testing and adjustment, body panel repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameter ranges
Depth:
Extremely high; covers from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Code:
4G63 (Evo VII-VIII MR) / 4G63T MIVEC (Evo VIII MR & Evo IX)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Horsepower Evo Vii:
276 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM)
Torque Evo Vii:
280 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM)
Horsepower Evo Viii:
271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM) / 280 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/UKDM)
Torque Evo Viii:
273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM) / 280 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM/UKDM)
Horsepower Evo Ix:
287 hp @ 6500 rpm (MIVEC, USDM/JDM)
Torque Evo Ix:
289 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (MIVEC, USDM/JDM)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD04-15G (Evo VII/VIII) or TD05HR-16G6-10.5T (Evo IX)
Intercooler:
Air-to-air front-mounted intercooler
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Evo VII, some Evo VIII)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (Limited availability on some markets/trims)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) on most performance variants
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch (manual transmissions)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen Super Hypoid Gear Oil GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Acd Ayc Fluid:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF-SP III (or equivalent) for ACD pump and AYC unit
Length:
Approx. 4,405 - 4,490 mm (173.4 - 176.8 inches), varies by model year and trim
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,400 - 1,470 kg (3,086 - 3,241 lbs), varies by model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 1,800 kg (3,968 lbs)
NHTSA Crash Test Rating:
Not consistently rated by NHTSA for this specific model, but generally considered robust for its class. Consult specific model year documentation.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Center Differential (ACD)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, optional side airbags, reinforced chassis structure, seatbelt pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD audio systems common. Higher trims might include premium sound or CD changers. Navigation systems were rare or aftermarket.
Advanced Driver Assistance:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on active safety through its AWD and braking systems (ABS, EBD, AYC, ACD). No adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or similar features.
Connectivity Features:
Standard analogue gauges, basic climate controls. Limited connectivity, often requiring aftermarket Bluetooth or audio interfaces.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal conditions). Highly recommended more frequently for performance driving.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Approximately every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. This is a critical preventative maintenance item; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 Synthetic (API SN/SN PLUS or ILSAC GF-5 compliant); 0W-20 for certain specific models/regions or high-performance applications. Consult manual for exact spec.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 Liters (5.1 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink (Ethylene Glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible, High-performance synthetic brake fluid recommended
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF)
Engine Internal:
Rod bearing failures can occur if oil starvation or detonation is present. Valve stem seals can wear, leading to oil consumption. Head gasket failures on heavily modified engines.
Turbocharger:
Oil leaks or bearing failure on turbochargers, especially with age and improper maintenance. Clogged oil feed lines can starve the turbo.
Drivetrain:
AYC/ACD pump failure or leaks. Clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. Differential wear.
Suspension And Chassis:
Worn bushings, especially on the control arms. Rust in common areas like rocker panels and strut towers, particularly in areas with road salt.
Electrical:
Corrosion on grounds and electrical connectors. Issues with immobilizer systems or ECUs.
Rally Dominance:
Mitsubishi has a storied history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where the Lancer Evolution was a dominant force, achieving multiple driver and manufacturer titles. This heritage heavily influenced the development of the road-going models.
Generation Context:
The 2003-2005 period covers the later stages of the CT9A platform, encompassing the Evo VII (introduced 2001), Evo VIII (introduced 2003), and Evo IX (introduced 2005). Each iteration brought refinements in aerodynamics, engine technology (like MIVEC in the IX), and drivetrain management.
Production Sites:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Period:
CT9A platform produced from 2001 to 2007, with the manual covering 2003-2005 models.
Automotive Press Accolades:
The Lancer Evolution consistently received high marks from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and performance. Often lauded as one of the best driver's cars of its generation.
Performance Categories:
Frequently featured on 'best handling cars,' 'most fun to drive,' and 'performance car of the year' lists in automotive publications.
