Generations Covered:
First Generation (1990-1996), Second Generation (1997-2000)
Model Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Chassis Codes First Gen:
F11A, F12A, F13A, F15A, F17A
Chassis Codes Second Gen:
F31A, F36A, F34A
Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES, Acura Legend, Infiniti J30, and Ford Taurus SHO.
Luxury Appointments:
Offered a refined interior, premium materials, advanced features for its time, and a focus on ride comfort.
Performance Options:
Available with powerful V6 engines, and in later generations, offered all-wheel-drive (AWD) for enhanced traction.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, internal component inspection, timing belt/chain service, piston and ring replacement, cylinder head service, valve train adjustments.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system servicing, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP), engine control module (ECM) operation and troubleshooting.
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission overhaul, manual transmission service, clutch service (if applicable), transfer case (if AWD models), transmission fluid replacement and specifications.
Brake System:
Disc brake service (pads, rotors, calipers), drum brake service (if applicable), anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering system diagnosis (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, starter and charging system service, lighting system repair, accessory circuit troubleshooting, power windows, locks, mirrors, and sunroof operation.
Cooling Fuel Systems:
Radiator and cooling fan service, water pump replacement, thermostat operation, fuel tank and pump service, fuel filter replacement, fuel line diagnosis.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and recharge, heater core replacement, climate control system operation, blower motor service.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair and replacement, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, chassis component inspection and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seat belt service, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component information.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, brake inspections, and tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and pinpoint tests for electrical and mechanical issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and complete overhaul for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading trouble codes (OBD-I and early OBD-II where applicable), and interpreting sensor data.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, bearing clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and other critical technical data.
Depth:
Complete factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Timing Belt:
Recommended replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles for 6G7 engines (critical maintenance).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher; viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for specific ambient temperature ranges).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen SP-III or equivalent ATF (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration.
Automatic Transmission:
Some transmissions may develop issues with shifting or torque converter clutch engagement, especially with higher mileage.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in the suspension can degrade, causing noise and imprecise handling.
Window Motors Regulators:
Power window regulators and motors can fail.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and catalytic converter issues can occur with age.
