Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact hatchback, known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Competed with models like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Fiesta, and VW Golf.
Key Selling Points:
Reliability, good fuel economy, versatile hatchback design, and competitive pricing. Offered a good balance of features for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike by providing the in-depth technical knowledge required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Colt effectively, saving significant labor costs.
Vehicle Years Covered:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Regions Covered:
Primarily North American and European specifications, but likely applicable to global markets with regional variations noted where relevant.
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed service manuals for this era typically range from 800 to 1500+ pages, covering all systems comprehensively.
Manual Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Likely a digital format (PDF) for ease of search and navigation, or a physical printed manual.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (4G9 series variants), fuel system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU diagnostics), transmission (manual and automatic options), clutch, driveshafts, differentials.
Chassis:
Brake system (disc/drum configurations, ABS), steering system (power/manual rack and pinion), suspension system (front McPherson strut, rear multi-link or torsion beam), wheels, tires, chassis components.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, body control modules (BCM).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, glass, trim, seats, upholstery, dashboard, HVAC system (AC, heating, ventilation), body seals, collision repair procedures (structural data).
Emission Control Systems:
Detailed information on catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR systems (if equipped), and evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems. Includes diagnostic procedures for emission-related fault codes.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical components, and bodywork.
Technical Data And Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, diagnostic parameters.
Engine Timing Adjustment:
Precise instructions for setting ignition timing and valve timing (belt or chain replacement and adjustment). Critical for engine performance and longevity.
Drivetrain Alignment And Adjustment:
Procedures for wheel alignment, driveshaft balancing, and differential checks. Includes specifications for camber, caster, and toe angles.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Wiring Diagrams Quality:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounding points, and component locations. Essential for electrical troubleshooting.
Digital Format Details:
If PDF, typically searchable text, printable pages, high-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Illustration Quality:
High-quality, detailed diagrams, schematics, and exploded views crucial for repair and assembly.
Physical Binding:
If printed: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and ease of use on a workbench.
Physical Paper Quality:
If printed: Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand workshop conditions.
Completeness Level:
Full factory service manual equivalent, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance.
Engine Families Covered:
Primarily Mitsubishi 4G9 series engines. Common variants include the 4G92 (1.6L SOHC/DOHC) and 4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC, including GDI variants in some markets).
Typical Horsepower Range:
Ranges from approximately 90 HP (for base 1.6L SOHC) to 135 HP (for 1.8L DOHC variants like the GTi/Ralliart). GDI engines would have similar or slightly higher output.
Typical Torque Range:
Approximately 100-120 lb-ft for 1.6L and 125-140 lb-ft for 1.8L variants.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for specific models.
Common Engine Codes:
4G92, 4G93, 4G93-GDI
Engine Displacement Options:
1.6 Liters (1597cc) and 1.8 Liters (1834cc) primarily.
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback.
Typical Length:
Approx. 3,900 - 4,000 mm (varies by generation and body style).
Typical Width:
Approx. 1,690 - 1,700 mm.
Typical Height:
Approx. 1,380 - 1,430 mm.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1,050 - 1,200 kg, depending on engine and transmission.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Specification would be provided for individual models.
Crash Test Performance:
While specific ratings for this generation may vary by region and testing body (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP), the manual would detail the vehicle's safety structure, airbag systems, and seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Available on higher trim levels or as an option. Manual would cover ABS module diagnostics and component testing.
Airbag Systems:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Manual would detail airbag deployment, SRS system diagnostics, and component replacement.
Seatbelt Systems:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts for front occupants. Manual would cover seatbelt mechanism and pre-tensioner service if applicable.
Oil And Filter Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide specific recommendations.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-4 years. Manual will specify coolant type and interval.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, change as needed or at higher mileage intervals. Specific manual guidance is critical.
Engine Oil Specification:
Typically API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity grades. Manual will provide precise specifications and capacities.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, likely a green or orange type. Manual will specify exact type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify.
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, front brake components, exhaust system, power steering pumps (if equipped), clutch wear (manual transmission).
Electrical Gremlins:
Potential for minor electrical issues over time, such as faulty door lock actuators or minor sensor issues. The manual's wiring diagrams are invaluable here.
Engine Performance Issues:
Carbon buildup on intake valves (especially with GDI), idle control valve issues, ignition coil or spark plug problems can affect performance. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, often with a focus on performance and rally heritage (e.g., Lancer Evolution). The Colt represents their entry into the compact and subcompact segments.
Colt Lineage:
The Colt nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi for decades across various platforms and market segments. The 1995-2002 models represent a significant redesign from previous generations, focusing on modern styling and improved engineering.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other global locations depending on the specific market.
Production Years Of Generation:
Sixth generation: 1996-2003 (model years 1995-2002 are within this range).
