Positioning:
A popular compact sedan and hatchback known for its sporty handling and affordability, especially the performance-oriented Evolution models.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Ford Focus, Mazda3
Design Philosophy:
Blend of practicality, sporty aesthetics, and performance, with the Evolution variants offering rally-inspired capabilities.
Target Audience:
Commuters, enthusiasts, and performance-oriented drivers.
Applicable Years:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Trim Levels Covered:
ES, LS, OZ Rally, GTS, Ralliart, Evolution (VIII/IX)
Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
All engine types, diagnostics, overhaul, tuning
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differentials, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, struts
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic systems, ABS, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, ignition, lighting, charging system
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, chassis components, rust repair
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, injectors, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component replacement, overhaul procedures, assembly/disassembly
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, specific system diagnostics
Electrical Repair:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, sensor diagnosis
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, rust prevention and repair
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures
Engine Options:
1.6L (4G18), 2.0L (4G63, 4G64, 4G63T), 2.4L (4G69)
2.0L 4G63T Evolution Power:
Approx. 270-280 hp (depending on specific Evolution model and market)
2.0L 4G63 Non Evo Power:
Approx. 120-135 hp
2.4L 4G69 Power:
Approx. 160-165 hp
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
ECM:
Engine Control Module (ECM) with various sensor inputs (MAP, MAF, O2, Knock, Crank/Cam Position)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4,510 mm (177.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,415 mm (55.7 in) for sedan
Curb Weight Est:
1,200 - 1,500 kg (2,645 - 3,300 lbs) depending on model/drivetrain
NHTSA Ratings Est:
Generally Good in front/side impacts, variable in rear based on year/testing protocols.
ABS:
Standard on most trims, standard on Evolution models
Traction Control:
Available on select trims, standard on Evolution models
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on later models and Evolution variants
Airbags:
Front airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags available on higher trims/later years
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.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 4G63/4G64 engines: 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km). Critical for interference engines.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SM or SN rated, check manual for specific application).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, Asian vehicle specific coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant).
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Mitsubishi SP II or SP III for automatic transmissions.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil, typically 75W-90.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving, especially on manual transmissions.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time leading to vibration.
Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings can be a point of failure, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Common on some 4G6x engines, especially the 4G63T.
Ac Compressor Clutch:
Can fail over time.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Established Japanese automaker with a history in motorsports and diverse vehicle production.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1973, evolving through multiple generations and body styles.
Generation Viii Production Years:
2000-2007 (though launched earlier in some markets)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Thailand, and other global assembly plants.
Evolution Motorsport Success:
The Lancer Evolution platform has a storied history in the World Rally Championship (WRC), influencing the performance variants of the road car.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varied by model year and trim. Generally average to good reliability ratings, with some model-specific concerns.
