🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Model Generations Covered:

The fifth generation Lancer (CB chassis) and its rebadged variants, specifically those marketed as the Mitsubishi Colt in many regions.

Model Years Covered:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

Chassis Codes:

CB1A, CB2A, CB3A, CB4A, CB5A, CB7A, CB8A (and potentially related export variations)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Target Audience:

DIY car owners, aspiring mechanics, automotive enthusiasts looking for in-depth technical information.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Mazda 323.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving money and gaining a deeper understanding of their vehicle.

Ease Of Use:

Promises step-by-step instructions suitable for any skill level, making complex tasks more approachable.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and technical specifications for the 1992-1995 Mitsubishi Colt Lancer.

Estimated Page Count:

This information is not explicitly provided in the product description. However, comprehensive service manuals for this era typically range from 800 to over 2000 pages.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine repair, disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing components, valve train.

Engine Management:

Engine Control System (ECU), fuel injection, ignition system, sensors (MAF, TPS, O2, knock, etc.), actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel system diagnostics and specifications.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, coolant types, system pressure testing, diagnostics.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil cooler (if applicable), oil pressure specifications, fluid types.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils/distributor, ignition timing, ignition control module, wiring diagrams.

Starting Charging System:

Starter motor, battery, alternator, voltage regulator, wiring and diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission:

Transmission repair, disassembly, assembly, valve body, torque converter, clutches, bands, hydraulic circuits, fluid specifications, shift control, diagnostics.

Manual Transmission:

Transmission repair, disassembly, assembly, clutch assembly, gears, synchronizers, shift linkage, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, universal joints, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, hub bearings.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (shocks, trailing arms, control arms), wheel alignment specifications.

Wheels Tires:

Tire size, inflation pressures, wheel specifications, bolt patterns, lug nut torque.

Brake System:

Front and rear brakes (discs/drums), brake calipers, brake pads, brake shoes, master cylinder, brake booster, hydraulic lines, ABS (if equipped), parking brake system.

Steering System:

Steering column, steering rack/gearbox, power steering pump, power steering fluid, steering linkage, wheel alignment.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant types, charging procedures, heating system, climate control, blower motor, diagnostics.

Safety Restraint System:

Airbag system components (if equipped), seat belts, pre-tensioners, SRS warning light diagnostics.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical diagrams, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, lighting, instruments, switches, body control modules.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, mirrors, interior trim, seats, upholstery, body repair, paint specifications.

Instrumentation Gauges:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, speedometers, tachometers, fuel gauge, temperature gauge.

Audio Visual:

Radio, speakers, antenna, wiring.

Cruise Control:

Components, operation, diagnostics, adjustments.

Wiper Washer:

Wiper motor, wiper arms, wiper blades, washer pump, washer fluid reservoir, nozzles.

Door Locks:

Lock mechanisms, actuators, central locking system, keyless entry (if applicable).

Muliplex Can Communication:

While the term 'CAN Communication' is often associated with later models, this manual likely covers multiplexed systems or early forms of data communication between modules used in the early to mid-90s, crucial for diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical troubleshooting using diagrams, mechanical troubleshooting.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component repair and overhaul (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement).

Inspection:

Pre-delivery inspections, routine inspections, component-specific checks.

Adjustment:

Valve adjustments, ignition timing adjustments, clutch pedal free play, parking brake adjustments.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing individual parts like spark plugs, filters, belts, hoses, sensors, pumps, alternators, starters, brake pads, etc.

Diagnostics:

Methods for diagnosing engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, and other system malfunctions.

Depth Of Information:

Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Mentions or implies the use of common automotive tools, multimeters, vacuum gauges, fuel pressure gauges, scan tools (for OBD-I or early OBD-II systems depending on specific market models).

Diagrams Illustrations:

Includes diagrams and illustrations for component identification, assembly/disassembly, and troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Pages are designed to be printed for garage use, allowing users to print only what they need.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Digital Paper Equivalent:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The 1992-1995 Colt Lancer (often based on the Mitsubishi Lancer CB platform) typically featured a range of inline-4 gasoline engines. Common options included: 1.3L (4G13), 1.5L (4G15), 1.6L (4G16, 4G91/4G92 MIVEC in some performance variants), 1.8L (4G93), and potentially a 2.0L (4G63) in certain performance or export models.

Horsepower Range:

Varies significantly by engine. Base models might have around 75-90 hp, while performance variants (e.g., with MIVEC or turbocharging in some markets) could exceed 100-150 hp.

Torque Range:

Corresponds to horsepower range, typically from 80-100 lb-ft for smaller engines to 130-160+ lb-ft for larger/performance engines.

Induction Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) was common, with some earlier or base models potentially using carburetion in certain markets, though less likely for this specific generation range.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

Most models likely came standard with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Type Opt:

An automatic transmission (likely 3-speed or 4-speed) was a common option.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (for manual transmission).

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Specific fluid type (e.g., ATF for automatics, GL-4 gear oil for manuals) would be detailed in the manual. Common manual gearbox oil is API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Automatic transmission fluid would typically be Dexron II or III.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Hatchback (3-door and 5-door) were common variants of the Lancer/Colt platform.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2500-2520 mm (98.4-99.2 inches), depending on specific body style and market.

Length:

Varies by body style, typically ranging from 4200 mm to 4400 mm (165-173 inches).

Width:

Typically around 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 inches).

Height:

Around 1380-1420 mm (54.3-55.9 inches).

Curb Weight:

Generally between 1000 kg and 1200 kg (2200-2650 lbs), depending on engine and body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Specific crash test ratings for this era and model are not readily available publicly. Early 90s safety standards were less stringent than today. However, models equipped with airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners would offer better protection.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes were standard. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature on higher trims or specific models.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag was becoming standard or optional on many vehicles in this period. Passenger airbags were less common.

Seat Belts:

Standard three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants. Some models may have had seatbelt pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. CD players were less common but may have been available as an option on higher trims or later models.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, typically on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was available as an option on many models.

Diagnostic Ports:

Likely used OBD-I diagnostic connector (12-pin Mitsubishi specific or a general SAE standard) for engine diagnostics. The manual would detail its location and use.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual will provide precise intervals based on severe vs. normal service.

Engine Coolant Interval:

Coolant replacement typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. The manual will specify the correct coolant type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid changes are often recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid checks and potential changes at longer intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines in this era, but specific recommendations depend on engine and climate. The manual will confirm the exact specification and API service classification (e.g., API SF or SG).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a green or blue coolant. The manual will specify the exact type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50 with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid is standard for most vehicles of this era.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise in the cabin. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber suspension bushings (control arms, sway bars) can degrade over time, leading to noise, poor handling, and alignment issues. The manual will cover their inspection and replacement.

Automatic Transmission Sluggishness:

Older automatic transmissions can sometimes develop sluggish shifts or hesitant engagement, often due to fluid degradation or internal wear. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or poor connections in electrical harnesses can cause intermittent faults. The manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for troubleshooting.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of producing reliable and often technologically advanced vehicles, known for its performance models like the Lancer Evolution.

Lancer Lineage:

The Lancer nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1973. The 1992-1995 models represent the fifth generation (CB chassis), a significant redesign from its predecessor, known for improved aerodynamics and handling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other countries for various markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Common Awards:

Specific awards for the 1992-1995 Colt Lancer are not widely documented. However, the Lancer platform in general has historically received positive reviews for its value, reliability, and driving dynamics in its segment.