🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Year:

1992

Chassis Codes:

CA0, CB0, CC0 (depending on specific body style)

Engine Codes:

4G13, 4G15 (common variants, refer to manual for specifics)

👋 Introduction

Historical Segment:

Compact car, competing in a highly competitive segment against models like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra.

Key Strengths Of Colt Lancer:

Often praised for sporty handling (especially in GT variants), reliability, and affordability. Offered a good balance of performance and economy for its time.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the critical, manufacturer-approved information needed for accurate diagnosis and repair, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle.

Vehicle Appeal:

Popular choice for young drivers, budget-conscious buyers, and those seeking a reliable and engaging driving experience in the compact class.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance for the 1992 Mitsubishi Colt Lancer.

Specific Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Emissions.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely between 800-1500 pages (typical for a factory service manual of this era).

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English (standard for factory manuals distributed in many markets)

Format:

Printed Book (as implied by 'handy, easy to read reference book')

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder head, valves, camshaft, crankshaft).

Engine Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel injection system (MPI/EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EVAP), exhaust system.

Engine Cooling And Lubrication:

Cooling system operation, radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch, oil pump, oil filter, lubrication passages.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear selection, internal components, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission operation, valve body, torque converter, hydraulic circuits, fluid specifications, shift control.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive components, drive axles, CV joints, differential, propeller shaft (if AWD variant existed).

Suspension Front:

MacPherson strut design, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, wheel bearings.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension (IRS) or semi-independent, trailing arms, control links, bushings, springs, shock absorbers.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack/gearbox, tie rod ends, steering column, alignment procedures.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes, brake master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, starter motor, wiring diagrams for charging circuit.

Electrical System Ignition:

Distributor (or distributorless ignition system - DIS), ignition coils, spark plugs, timing specifications, ignition control module.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb specifications, wiring for lighting circuits.

Electrical System Instruments:

Dashboard gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temp), warning lights, instrument cluster repair.

Electrical System Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, radio, wipers, horn, accessory circuits.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heater core, blower motor, climate controls.

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat removal, interior trim, body panel alignment, glass replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, belt inspections/replacements.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing methods (resistance, voltage, continuity).

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Adjustment Procedures:

Idle speed adjustments, ignition timing adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems, including component locations and harness routing.

Depth Of Coverage:

Full workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

Specifications Detail:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures, and electrical values.

Troubleshooting Guidance:

Extensive, with logical diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Availability:

While described as printed, digital versions (PDF) are commonly available for manuals of this era.

Print Quality Description:

Factory original prints are typically high quality with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Likely perfect binding or coil binding for ease of use on a workbench.

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock designed to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), naturally aspirated.

Displacement:

1.3 Liter (1300cc) and 1.5 Liter (1500cc) were common. Specific to manual: 1.5L 4G15.

Bore X Stroke 1.5L:

Approximately 75.5 mm x 82.0 mm (refer to manual for exact figures).

Compression Ratio 1.5L:

Around 9.4:1 to 9.8:1 (depending on market and specific tune).

Horsepower 1.5L:

Approximately 80-90 hp (gross) at 5500-6000 RPM.

Torque 1.5L:

Approximately 90-100 lb-ft (gross) at 3500-4000 RPM.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI / EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as specified by Mitsubishi).

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric fuel pump.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT).

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (3AT).

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated clutch.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model and transmission type; manual will detail these.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2500 mm (98.4 inches).

Length:

Approximately 4200-4300 mm (165.4-169.3 inches) depending on body style (sedan, coupe, hatchback).

Width:

Approximately 1690 mm (66.5 inches).

Height:

Approximately 1370-1400 mm (53.9-55.1 inches) depending on body style.

Curb Weight:

Typically ranging from 980 kg to 1150 kg (2160 lbs to 2535 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle's compliance plate or manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited comprehensive public crash test data available for this specific model year from major agencies like NHTSA/IIHS compared to modern vehicles. Manual focuses on mechanical safety systems.

ABS Availability:

Optional on higher trim levels or specific models.

Traction Control Availability:

Generally not available on this generation.

Seat Belts:

Standard front seat belts; rear seat belts may vary by market and trim.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became available as an option or standard on later models of this generation, but may not be standard on all 1992 models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player on higher trims. Basic speaker configurations.

Navigation:

Not available.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Phone Integration:

Not available.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or SL, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for precise viscosity and API classification).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), then every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or 1-2 years.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green color. Use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF (refer to manual).

Common Wear Items:

CV joint boots, exhaust system components, suspension bushings, clutch wear, radiator hoses.

Engine Issues:

Potential for oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, intake manifold gasket leaks on some engines.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on grounds, aging wiring harness components, alternator and starter motor reliability can be a concern on older vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors History:

Founded in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has a long history of producing reliable and often innovative vehicles, with a strong presence in rallying and motorsport.

Colt Lancer Lineage:

The Colt badge was used for smaller Mitsubishi vehicles in many export markets, with Lancer being the primary global nameplate. This generation represents a significant evolution in styling and technology from previous Lancers.

Production Era:

This specific generation of Lancer (often referred to as the CC platform) was produced roughly from 1991 to 1995/1996.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with production also occurring in other global facilities depending on market and specific model variants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Awards:

While specific awards for the 1992 Colt Lancer are not widely documented, the Lancer model line has a consistent history of positive reviews for value, reliability, and driving dynamics in its segment.