Market Segment:
Compact car, competitive with models like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort of the era. Positioned as an affordable and fuel-efficient option.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability (due to Mitsubishi engineering), fuel economy, affordable pricing, practical hatchback and sedan body styles.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, licensed OE data in a convenient digital format, offering significant cost savings over dealership service or outdated printed manuals.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by software version, typically hundreds to over a thousand pages of indexed content.
Type:
Software-based Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Software (Online Access)
Engine:
Complete coverage including engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, including overhaul, adjustments, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Includes front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, and differential.
Suspension:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, struts, springs, and control arms.
Steering:
Coverage of power steering system, steering column, and steering linkage.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic brake system, including front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, and ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layouts, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.
Body:
Includes body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, and glass replacement.
HVAC:
Coverage of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling and component diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and fluid checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common and intermittent issues across all systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for component removal, installation, adjustment, and rebuilding.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes complete, often color-coded, wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits.
Depth:
Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Digital Format:
Proprietary software accessed via web browser; not a downloadable file in traditional sense (e.g., PDF, EXE).
Printability:
Content is digitally presented, with the ability to print individual pages or sections through the web interface, offering clarity suitable for reference.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Access)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Access)
Engine Code:
4G13 (1.3L SOHC), 4G15 (1.5L SOHC)
Displacement:
1298 cc (1.3L) and 1468 cc (1.5L)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 73 hp (1.3L) to 92 hp (1.5L) depending on market and specific tune.
Torque:
Approx. 73 lb-ft (1.3L) to 93 lb-ft (1.5L) depending on market and specific tune.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for most models, some base models may have Carburetor.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Wheelbase:
Approx. 94.7 inches (2405 mm)
Length:
Approx. 161.6 inches (4105 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,000 - 2,200 lbs (907 - 998 kg), varies by body style and equipment.
NHTSA Rating:
Incomplete at time of release; safety standards were evolving. Refer to specific market test results if available.
Braking System:
Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some higher trims.
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts. Shoulder belts may be standard on certain trims.
Child Safety:
Child seat anchor points (LATCH system not yet standard).
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper, platinum).
Timing Belt:
Critical replacement interval for interference engines. Typically 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Consult manual for exact interval and procedure.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
CV boots, clutch wear, exhaust system components, timing belt (critical failure risk if neglected), minor electrical connectors.
Engine Management:
Occasional issues with Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, MAF sensor (if equipped), and fuel injectors can affect idle quality and performance.
HVAC:
Compressor clutch failure and refrigerant leaks are possible.
Dodge Heritage Context:
Dodge, a marque of Chrysler Corporation, offered rebadged Mitsubishi vehicles during this period to fill gaps in its product lineup, particularly in the compact segment.
Colt History:
The Dodge Colt was a product of Chrysler's partnership with Mitsubishi Motors, based on the Mitsubishi Mirage. The 1991 model represents the third generation, featuring a more aerodynamic design and improved interior compared to its predecessors.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (by Mitsubishi Motors)
Production Period:
1970-1996 (Dodge Colt nameplate across various generations)
