Segment:
Compact car, subcompact car (depending on market classification)
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed repair and maintenance information
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Reliability:
Known for its robust and reliable engineering, particularly in engine and drivetrain components
Affordability:
Offered a value-oriented package, making it an accessible choice in its segment
Practicality:
Designed for everyday use with a focus on fuel efficiency and manageable size
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, emission controls
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and diagnosis
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, driveshafts, differentials, hubs
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system repair, steering column, steering rack
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including disc and drum brakes, ABS (if applicable), bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, sensors, ECUs, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant, fan systems
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, structural components
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant, components
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures
Calibration:
Engine timing, sensor calibration procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic information, including wiring diagrams and component testing
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical values
Engine Code:
4G13, 4G15, 4G91, 4G92 (Commonly found, specific to market/trim)
Displacement:
1.3L (1300cc), 1.5L (1500cc), 1.6L (1600cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 70 - 110 HP (varies by engine and market)
Torque Range:
Approximately 80 - 100 lb-ft (varies by engine and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (often referred to as Colt Lancer or Lancer/Mirage in different markets)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2500 mm (98.4 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4300-4350 mm (169.3-171.3 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1380-1400 mm (54.3-55.1 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1000-1150 kg (2200-2535 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model and configuration
Towing Capacity:
Not typically recommended or specified for this class of vehicle
NHTSA Rating:
Limited data available for this era; later models received better ratings
IIHS Rating:
Limited data available for this era
ABS:
Optional on some trims/markets
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional or unavailable
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (or 3-point on some models)
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard for this generation
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles (38,000-48,000 km) or 2-3 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial interval: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years (critical for interference engines)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5-4.0 liters (3.7-4.2 quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)
Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, radiator leaks, potential for timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (interference engines).
Transmission:
Wear in manual transmission synchros, automatic transmission solenoid issues, fluid leaks.
Electrical:
Alternator failure, starter motor issues, intermittent electrical faults due to aging wiring or grounds.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings leading to noise and handling issues.
Body:
Rust in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and strut towers, especially in regions with road salt.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles.
Colt Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has a storied history, originating from the compact Colt range. This generation represents the fifth (Evo I-III) or sixth (Evo IV) generation Lancer, depending on market designation and specific model year.
Evolution Models:
This era also saw the development of the iconic Lancer Evolution performance models, which were built upon the standard Lancer platform.
Production Period:
1992-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with assembly plants in various countries globally.
