Segment:
Compact Sports Car / Coupe
Key Selling Points:
Performance, distinctive styling, available turbocharged engines, AWD option.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Ford Probe.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty, aerodynamic styling with a focus on performance driving dynamics.
Platform Sharing:
First generation shared platform with the Dodge/Plymouth Colt and Eagle Summit. Second generation shared platform with Chrysler's."Small Car" platform (MCA).
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI, GDI), ignition system, emission control systems (EGR, EVAP), turbocharger systems (for turbo models).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internals, shift mechanism, related hydraulics.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, hydraulic controls, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive axles, differentials, transfer case (AWD).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column.
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, lines, ABS components), hydraulic pressure specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body sealing.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, turbocharger installation/repair.
Diagnostics:
Using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, identifying fault causes.
Adjustment Procedures:
Throttle cable adjustment, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustment (on applicable models).
Component Testing:
Testing fuel injectors, ignition coils, sensors, actuators, relays, and other electrical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic procedures, often referencing specific scan tool data interpretation.
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Configuration 1:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 135-140 hp
Torque 1:
Approx. 125-130 lb-ft
Fuel System 1:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
4G63T (Turbocharged)
Displacement 2:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Configuration 2:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 195-210 hp (depending on boost and intercooling)
Torque 2:
Approx. 203-210 lb-ft
Fuel System 2:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Intercooled Turbocharger
Engine Code 3:
4G64 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement 3:
2.4 Liters (2351cc)
Configuration 3:
Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower 3:
Approx. 140-150 hp
Torque 3:
Approx. 145-155 lb-ft
Fuel System 3:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 4:
4G63T (Turbocharged)
Displacement 4:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Configuration 4:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Horsepower 4:
Approx. 205-210 hp
Torque 4:
Approx. 205 lb-ft
Fuel System 4:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Turbocharged
All Engine Variants:
2.0L NA, 2.0L Turbo, 2.4L NA.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for 4G63/4G64 engines (critical interval).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific climate and engine requirements).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green type), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), turbocharger seals, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan, worn suspension bushings, intermittent electrical issues (especially ground connections), clutch wear, automatic transmission solenoid issues.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Japanese automotive manufacturer with a history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and advanced engineering.
Generation 1 D20:
Launched in 1990, shared platform with Mitsubishi Colt. Known for its sporty styling and available turbocharged 4G63 engine. Available in coupe and convertible body styles. Offered FWD and AWD.
Generation 2 D30:
Launched in 1995, significant redesign with a more rounded, aerodynamic shape. Offered 2.0L and 2.4L engines, with the 2.0L turbo (4G63T) remaining the performance flagship. Offered in coupe and convertible. FWD and AWD available.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant) for North American models.