Model Generation Codified:
CJ/CK/CM
Chassis Codes:
CJ1A, CJ2A, CJ4A, CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CM1A, CM2A, CM4A
Engine Codes Common:
4G13 (1.3L), 4G15 (1.5L), 4G92 (1.6L), 4G93 (1.8L), 4G94 (2.0L)
Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Colt Lancer (CJ/CK/CM generation) was a popular compact car, known for its affordability, reliability, and often sporty driving dynamics, particularly in performance variants like the GSR. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops needing detailed factory-level information.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, and Volkswagen Golf during its production run.
Vehicle Attributes:
Practicality, fuel efficiency, available AWD (on some variants), strong aftermarket support, and accessible performance tuning.
Benefits For Buyer:
Provides access to the same repair and maintenance procedures used by Mitsubishi dealership technicians, enabling accurate diagnostics, efficient repairs, and proper upkeep, ultimately saving time and money.
Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily based on JDM/European specifications, adaptable to other markets)
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual covering multiple engine/transmission options)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, emission control systems, exhaust system, intake system, engine control system (ECU diagnostics), manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, drive shafts, differential, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (including power steering), brake system (including parking brake), wheel and tire specifications, wheel alignment.
Body And Interior:
Body exterior (panels, doors, windows, mirrors, hood), interior trim, seats, instrument panel, steering column, door locks, HVAC (air conditioning), supplementary restraint system (SRS/airbags), seat belts.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, audio/visual systems, horn, wipers and washers, cruise control, engine immobilizer, multiplex communication systems (CAN bus if equipped).
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, DTC interpretation, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including engine disassembly/reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, body panel replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt adjustments, lubrication points.
Inspection Procedures:
Visual inspections, torque specifications for critical fasteners, component wear limits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and electrical system diagnostics. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engines Available:
Primarily 1.3L (4G13), 1.5L (4G15), 1.6L (4G92 MIVEC), 1.8L (4G93 SOHC/DOHC), 2.0L (4G94).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 75 hp (4G13) to 145 hp (4G93 DOHC MIVEC) depending on engine and market.
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 Nm (4G13) to 175 Nm (4G93 DOHC MIVEC).
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) standard across most variants.
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Oil Type Specification:
Typically API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Type:
5-speed manual transmission.
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission.
All Wheel Drive:
Available on certain performance variants (e.g., GSR models) with a viscous coupling center differential.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen SPIII or equivalent ATF SP-III (refer to manual).
Crash Test History:
Varies by market and testing body. Later models often incorporated improved safety structures. Consult specific market safety reports for detailed ratings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (ventilated on performance models), rear drum or disc brakes depending on trim. Optional ABS.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags available on most models, especially in later years.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point or lap belts for rear occupants.
Audio System:
Factory radio with AM/FM, cassette player, and CD player options. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many trims, allowing for sustained speed cruising.
Multiplex Communication:
The manual lists 'Multiplex/ CAN Communication', indicating the presence of multiplex wiring systems in some configurations, a precursor to modern CAN bus architectures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (standard, platinum, iridium). Typically 30,000-100,000 km range. Iridium plugs often have the longest intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for interference engines (e.g., 4G9x series). Typically recommended every 90,000-100,000 km or 5-7 years. Consult manual for specific engine requirements.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific color or specification (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).
Common Problems Minor:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), minor oil leaks from gaskets/seals, occasional electrical gremlins (e.g., door lock actuators, window motors), rust on body panels in corrosive environments.
Common Problems Major:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule, can cause severe engine damage), automatic transmission issues (less common but possible with high mileage), catalytic converter failure, potential radiator leaks.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Typically 4x100 or 4x114.3 depending on the specific model and trim level.
Tire Sizes:
Common sizes include 175/70R14, 185/65R14, 195/60R15, 205/50R15 (varies by trim and wheel size).
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for robust engineering and innovation in areas like four-wheel drive technology.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has been in continuous production since 1973, evolving through numerous generations and body styles. This specific generation (CJ/CK/CM) represented a significant redesign and modernization from its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with significant production also occurring in other global locations through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits and local assembly plants.
Production Period:
1995-2002 (model years 1996-2001 fall within this range).
