Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedan and Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323
Vehicle Appeal:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, affordable maintenance, practical design
User Benefit:
Enables DIY repairs, troubleshooting, and proper maintenance, saving on labor costs and maximizing vehicle longevity.
Model Years:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Geographic Market:
Global (specific variants may apply)
Trim Levels Covered:
GS, LS, ES, GTS, GL, GLX, and potentially base models (depending on specific manual edition).
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments, Audio System, ECUs, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Fuel System Details:
Fuel pump operation, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement.
Exhaust System Details:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, O2 sensor diagnosis and replacement.
Air Conditioning System:
Refrigerant types, component service (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak detection, and charging procedures.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control systems, including heater core and A/C evaporator replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Service, Suspension Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major components
Timing Belt Replacement:
Detailed procedure including tensioner and pulley replacement, critical for interference engines.
Brake System Overhaul:
Disc brake pad and rotor replacement, drum brake shoe adjustment and replacement, brake caliper and cylinder service, brake fluid bleeding.
Cylinder Head Removal Installation:
Comprehensive guide for cylinder head gasket replacement and valve servicing.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using basic diagnostic tools, multimeter usage for electrical troubleshooting.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, essential for engine, transmission, and suspension work.
Wiring Diagrams Quality:
Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations
Digital Format Features:
Bookmark functionality, cross-referencing
Digital Accessibility:
Accessible on multiple devices (computers, tablets, smartphones)
Engine Code Common:
4G13, 4G15, 4G92, 4G93
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated (some turbocharged variants exist in certain markets)
Displacement Range:
1.3L (1300cc), 1.5L (1500cc), 1.6L (1600cc), 1.8L (1800cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 75 hp to 140 hp (depending on engine and market)
Torque Range:
Approx. 105 Nm to 170 Nm (depending on engine and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on some models)
ECU Information:
Details on ECU (Engine Control Unit) identification, basic functions, and troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type specified in the manual.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium/platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Type Common:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and exact specifications).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Mitsubishi coolant type recommended.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON-II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid as per manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (manual transmission), suspension bushings and ball joints, exhaust system corrosion, radiator and hoses.
Engine Specific:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, occasional sensor failures (e.g., MAF, O2 sensor).
Electrical Common:
Window regulator failures, central locking issues, intermittent power to accessories.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles.
Lancer Lineage:
The Colt Lancer is part of the long-running Lancer lineage, known for its evolution from a compact car to performance-oriented models like the Lancer Evolution.
Production Period:
1996-2001 (for the specific generation covered by this manual)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (primarily), also assembled in various international locations.
