Positioning:
The 1996 Mitsubishi 3000GT (GTO in Japan) was a flagship sports coupe, competing with established players like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Mazda RX-7. It was known for its advanced technology and stylish design.
Competitors:
Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Porsche 968.
Aerodynamics:
Active aerodynamic elements, including a front air dam that adjusted at higher speeds (on certain models).
Handling:
Sophisticated multi-link suspension, optional Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) and Active Aerodynamics.
Performance:
Available with naturally aspirated and twin-turbocharged V6 engines, and features like All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and All-Wheel Steering (AWS/4WS).
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, and performance tuning shops.
Unique Selling Point:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, crucial for maintaining and repairing complex systems like AWD, 4WS, and twin-turbocharged engines.
Service Scope:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and restoration
Estimated Pages:
Refer to individual sections for estimated detail. Full factory manuals are typically extensive, often 1000+ pages.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust systems.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transaxle, automatic transaxle, propeller shaft, front axle, rear axle, wheel and tire specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, electronic control suspension (ECS), steering system, 4-wheel steering system (4WS).
Brakes:
Service brakes (including ABS if equipped), parking brakes.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, and structural components.
HVAC:
Heater, air conditioner, ventilation systems.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring schematics, ignition system, lighting, gauges, power accessories, and control modules.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault identification, and corrective actions.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair, overhaul, and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and information for all major systems.
Depth:
Factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds.
Engine Code:
6G72 (V6 SOHC and DOHC Twin-Turbo variants)
Configuration:
60-degree V6
Valvetrain:
SOHC 24-valve (non-turbo) and DOHC 24-valve Twin-Turbo (e.g., VR-4 model).
Horsepower Non Turbo:
Approx. 222 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Non Turbo:
Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower Twin Turbo:
Approx. 300 hp @ 6000 rpm (for VR-4 models)
Torque Twin Turbo:
Approx. 307 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for VR-4 models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fans.
Oil Type Recommendation:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate and OEM specs).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (on most models)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (with sport mode)
AWD System:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential on twin-turbo models.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent for automatic) and manual transmission fluid (MTF) specifications.
Length:
Approx. 178.0 inches (4520 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches (1815 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.2 inches (2470 mm)
Curb Weight Non Turbo:
Approx. 3400-3500 lbs (1540-1590 kg)
Curb Weight Twin Turbo:
Approx. 3700-3800 lbs (1680-1725 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Limited, typical for a sports coupe.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1996 models may vary; refer to official archives. Typically, vehicles of this era focused on passive safety features.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models, standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often paired with the AWD system on twin-turbo models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems (e.g., Mitsubishi/Infinity), often with CD player or cassette.
Electronic Control Suspension:
ECS allows driver selection of suspension damping modes (e.g., Comfort, Normal, Sport).
Four Wheel Steering:
AWS/4WS system enhances low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability by steering the rear wheels.
Diagnostics Ports:
OBD-I or OBD-II compliant diagnostic port for engine and system scanning (depending on final production specifications for the year).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact factory recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Timing belt replacement typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years due to interference engine design. Failure leads to catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system requirements. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (likely ATF or dedicated power steering fluid).
Common Problems:
ECU capacitor failure (leading to various electronic gremlins), active aero system malfunctions, AWD system maintenance, timing belt issues, oil leaks from front seals, catalytic converter failure (especially on high-mileage turbo models).
Turbo Specific Maintenance:
Regular oil changes with high-quality oil are critical for turbo longevity. Turbo oil feed and return lines should be inspected for blockages.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history of performance and innovation, including rally racing success with the Lancer Evolution, which informed some of the 3000GT's technology.
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (1994-1998) of the 3000GT, which received significant styling updates including fixed headlights (replacing the pop-ups from the first generation) and improved aerodynamics.
Production Years:
1990-2000 (Globally)