Generation Designation:
Sixth Generation
Generation Code:
CJ/CK/CM
Chassis Codes Covered:
CJ1A, CJ2A, CJ4A, CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CM1A, CM2A, CM4A, CK6A, CK8A, CK9A
Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact/Compact car
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Mazda 323/Familia
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, practicality, affordable ownership costs, agile handling (especially performance variants)
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for DIY mechanics and professional technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Colt Lancer from 1996-2003.
Primary Coverage Regions:
Global, with emphasis on markets where Colt Lancer was sold (Europe, Asia, Australia)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Classification:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Manual Scope:
Complete Repair and Service Manual, often including diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and technical specifications.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (F5M33, W5M33), Automatic transmission (F4A41, F4A42), Clutches, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Engine control modules (ECU), body control modules (BCM), lighting, power accessories, charging system, starting system, audio systems, anti-theft systems
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, dashboard, interior trim, HVAC system
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacements, brake pad replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, OBD-II diagnostic codes and procedures
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair
Special Procedures:
Wheel alignment specifications, torque specifications for critical fasteners, refrigerant handling (R134a for AC), airbag system servicing precautions
Body Repair Procedures:
Panel alignment, rust repair, glass replacement, bumper repair/replacement.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Standard hand tools, specialized automotive tools (e.g., torque wrenches, diagnostic scan tools, brake tools), multimeter
PDF Features:
Searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents, bookmark functionality
Digital Format Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Image Resolution:
High resolution (suitable for printing clear diagrams and text)
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Digital Paper Simulation:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Codes Covered:
4G13, 4G15, 4G92, 4G93, 4G94
Engine Displacement 4G15:
1.5 Liters (1468 cc)
Engine Configuration 4G15:
Inline-4, SOHC
Bore X Stroke 4G15:
75.5 mm x 82.0 mm
Compression Ratio 4G15:
9.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower 4G15:
90-98 PS (66-72 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 4G15:
120-130 Nm (89-96 lb-ft) @ 3500-4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Displacement 4G93:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Engine Configuration 4G93:
Inline-4, DOHC, MIVEC (on some performance variants)
Horsepower 4G93 Na:
125-140 PS (92-103 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approx. naturally aspirated)
Torque 4G93 Na:
160-170 Nm (118-125 lb-ft) @ 4000-4500 rpm (approx. naturally aspirated)
Performance Variants:
Models like the Lancer GTi/GSR featured turbocharged 4G93T engines, significantly increasing power output.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95)
Engine Displacement 4G13:
1.3 Liters (1298 cc)
Engine Configuration 4G13:
Inline-4, SOHC
Horsepower 4G13:
75 PS (55 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Displacement 4G94:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Engine Configuration 4G94:
Inline-4, DOHC, MIVEC
Horsepower 4G94:
135 PS (99 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., F5M33)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., F4A41, F4A42)
AWD Availability:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was available on certain performance models (e.g., Lancer Evolution variants, though not explicitly Colt Lancer in all markets, shared platform).
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring (for manual transmissions)
Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by market and specific model year. Generally rated as average for its era. Refer to specific regional testing data (e.g., Euro NCAP for European models).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) on some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, side impact door beams, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 15,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific owner's manual for exact interval).
Engine Coolant Interval:
Initial change at 60,000 miles (100,000 km), then every 30,000-40,000 miles (50,000-60,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Interval Auto:
Every 30,000-45,000 miles (50,000-75,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for iridium/platinum plugs, or 30,000 miles (50,000 km) for standard plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature). Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
DIAQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Consult manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, CV joint boots, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, catalytic converter issues (age-related).
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failure of power window motors, intermittent central locking issues.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets, potential timing belt failure if not replaced per schedule (for 4G9 series engines).
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles across various segments.
Lancer Evolution:
The Colt Lancer shares its platform with the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, though the Colt Lancer models are typically less performance-oriented and more focused on practicality and economy.
Production Period:
1996-2003 (for the CJ/CK/CM generation covered by this manual)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with production also occurring in other Mitsubishi assembly plants globally.