Segment:
Compact Sport Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe
Design Philosophy:
Stylish aerodynamic design, performance-oriented powertrains (especially the 4G63T), available AWD.
Notable Trims:
GSX (AWD Turbo), GST (FWD Turbo), GS (Naturally Aspirated), Base/DL (1.8L)
Engine Coverage:
4G37 (1.8L SOHC), 4G63 (2.0L SOHC Non-Turbo), 4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)
Transmission Coverage:
F5M21 (5-speed Manual), F4A22/F4A23 (4-speed Automatic), VCU (Viscous Coupling Unit) for AWD models
Drivetrain Coverage:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Body Style Coverage:
Coupe (GSX, GST, GS, Base/DL), Convertible (GS)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (EFI), emissions control.
Engine Performance:
Engine control system (ECU diagnostics), ignition system, turbocharger system (for 4G63T models), boost control.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission operation and diagnosis, clutch system, driveshafts, CV joints, differential, transfer case (for AWD).
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, drums, pads), ABS system (where applicable), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules.
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, refrigerant types, service procedures, troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, convertible top mechanism, structural components, corrosion protection.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake inspections, tire rotations.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, engine performance analysis, electrical system diagnosis, ABS fault finding.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Adjustment Procedures:
Idle speed adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, clutch pedal adjustment, ignition timing (if applicable).
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and troubleshooting guides.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine control units (ECUs), fuel injection systems, and electronic components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components and circuits.
Engine 1.8L:
4G37, 1.8L SOHC I4, 98 hp @ 5500 rpm, 105 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Engine 2.0L Na:
4G63, 2.0L SOHC I4, 135 hp @ 6000 rpm, 125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2.0L Turbo:
4G63T, 2.0L DOHC I4 Turbocharged, 195 hp @ 6000 rpm, 203 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx. for AWD GSX)
Engine 2.0L Turbo FWD:
4G63T, 2.0L DOHC I4 Turbocharged, 190 hp @ 6000 rpm, 195 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx. for FWD GST)
Compression Ratio 4G63T:
8.5:1
Redline 4G63T:
Approximately 6500-7000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Required:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine, premium for turbo models)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for exact recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63/4G63T engines. Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Belt failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40). Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Specific fluid type crucial.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Turbo Lag 4G63T:
Characteristic of older turbo systems; can be mitigated with proper maintenance and tuning.
Oil Consumption:
Can occur on higher mileage engines due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
Clutch Wear:
Normal wear item, replacement frequency depends on driving style.
Power Window Motors:
Can be a failure point in the electrical system.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common on vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis.
Transfer Case Oil Leaks AWD:
Potential for leaks from seals in the transfer case.