Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Mazda MX-6.
Design Philosophy:
Mitsubishi's focus on advanced engineering and a sporty driving experience within the mainstream sedan segment.
Technological Advancements:
For its time, offered features like multi-link suspension and sophisticated engine management systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (AT), manual transmission (MT) - including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, including driveshafts, CV joints, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column components, diagnostic and repair procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor replacement.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, frame structure, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) - diagnostic and component replacement (with appropriate safety precautions).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and HVAC issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes and interpretation (as applicable for the era), sensor testing, actuator testing.
Wiring:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component locations, and connector pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Tools:
Mentions required tools and specialized equipment for diagnosis and repair.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific engine component clearances and assembly tolerances.
Engine Code Common:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbo - found in higher trims like GSR/VR-4), 6A12 (2.0L V6 MIVEC), 6A13 (2.5L V6 MIVEC).
Engine Displacement Common Na:
2.0L (1998cc), 2.5L (2498cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline-4 (4G63), V6 (6A12, 6A13)
Engine Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated, Turbocharged (on certain performance variants)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves (4G63), DOHC, 24 Valves (V6 engines)
Performance Na 2.5L V6:
Approx. 170-180 hp @ 6000 rpm, 174-177 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm
Performance Turbo 2.0L:
Approx. 240-276 hp @ 6000 rpm, 260-270 lb-ft torque @ 3000 rpm (depending on specific tune, e.g., VR-4)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system.
Oil Type Recommended:
Refer to manual - typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG/SH rated oil.
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated diagnostics (OBD-I).
Transmission Type Common:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT), 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4AT).
Transmission Type Performance:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and viscous coupling on performance models (e.g., VR-4).
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission, possibly with 'sport' or 'economy' modes on higher trims.
Manual Features:
Close-ratio gearing on performance variants.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual - typically ATF SP-II or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual - typically GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific driving conditions outlined in manual).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Coolant:
Refer to manual - typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Performance:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets. Potential for catalytic converter failure. Ignition coil failures. Overheating due to clogged radiator or faulty thermostat.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission clutch pack wear, solenoid issues. Manual transmission clutch wear, synchronizer issues.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends leading to steering looseness and tire wear. Strut mount bearing failure.
Electrical:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, failing power window motors, headlamp switch issues, instrument cluster problems.
Preventative Measures:
Regularly check all fluid levels, inspect belts and hoses for wear, maintain proper tire inflation, and follow the timing belt replacement schedule diligently.