Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Car
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, individuals seeking reliable and economical transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, surprisingly engaging driving dynamics for its class, good reliability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level repair and maintenance data for DIY enthusiasts and independent mechanics to keep the vehicle in optimal condition.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Engine Electrical, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, HVAC System, Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC interpretation (where applicable), Electrical circuit testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Body Panel Repair
Installation Adjustment:
Component Installation, Alignment Procedures, Clutch Adjustment, Brake Bleeding
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Print Readability:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and text when printed
Binding For Print:
Assumed to be printable for manual binding (e.g., comb, spiral, perfect)
Paper Recommendation:
Standard printer paper for digital copy, heavier stock recommended for printed workshop copies
Engine Code Common:
4G92, 4G93
Engine Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement Common:
1.5L (1490cc), 1.6L (1597cc)
Valve Train:
SOHC or DOHC (depending on variant)
Horsepower Range Approx:
90 hp - 135 hp (depending on engine and market)
Torque Range Approx:
130 Nm - 170 Nm (depending on engine and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Body Styles Offered:
4-door Sedan, 3-door Hatchback, 5-door Hatchback (Colt variations)
Length Approx Sedan:
4245 mm (167.1 in)
Width Approx:
1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height Approx:
1390 mm - 1420 mm (54.7 - 55.9 in)
Curb Weight Range Approx:
1000 kg - 1150 kg (2200 lbs - 2535 lbs)
Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by market and testing agency; generally moderate for its era. Specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP data should be cross-referenced for the exact year and region.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard); Optional Front & Rear Disc Brakes on higher trims.
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models/trims.
Airbags:
Driver Airbag (standard on many trims); Passenger Airbag optional or standard on later/higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with cassette player or CD player (optional). Speaker configuration typically 4-6 speakers.
Dashboard Displays:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various system checks.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels, typically an electronic system.
Power Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering standard on most models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
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) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years for interference engines (refer to manual for exact interval and engine specifics).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity: 10W-30 or 5W-30 recommended (refer to manual for specific climate and engine type).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 Liters (3.7 - 4.2 US Quarts) with filter change (verify exact capacity for specific engine).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Use Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent specified by Mitsubishi).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-II, SP-III, or ATF equivalent. Check dipstick for level and condition.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, CV joint boots, exhaust system components (muffler, pipes), clutch wear (manual transmission).
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, and interior lighting can occur due to aging wiring or switch contacts.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and hose degradation are possible with age and mileage.
Mitsubishi Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust engineering and performance vehicles alongside practical, everyday cars.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer has been a cornerstone of Mitsubishi's lineup since its introduction, evolving through multiple generations with varying styling and performance.
1999 Generation:
Part of the sixth generation (1995-2000) Lancer/Mirage platform (CJ/CK/CM), known for its rounded styling and improved chassis dynamics over predecessors.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with significant production also occurring in Australia, Taiwan, and other global facilities.
