🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VIII (Evo VIII)

Model Code:

CT9A

Production Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

CT9A

Engine Code Primary:

4G63T

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII represents the pinnacle of rally-bred performance accessible to the enthusiast market. It's a homologation special designed for motorsport success, offering a highly tuned powertrain and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.

Competitors:

Direct competitors at the time included the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, and other high-performance compact sedans. The Evo VIII distinguished itself with its advanced AYC/ACD system and potent turbocharged engine.

Performance Focus:

The Evo VIII is engineered for maximum performance, handling, and driver engagement, making it a sought-after vehicle for track days and spirited driving.

Technical Sophistication:

Features like the Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) provide exceptional traction and cornering ability.

Manual Utility:

This service manual is essential for owners and technicians to properly maintain, diagnose, and repair this complex performance vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Model Variants Covered:

All models and all engines for the 2003 model year

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management system (ECU/ECM), turbocharger system, intercooler system, drivetrain (manual and automatic transmissions), clutch, transfer case, driveshafts, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, gauges, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control system, safety systems (SRS/airbags), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, body repair procedures, rust prevention, corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and replacements, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation, electrical circuit testing, pressure testing, leak detection.

Special Procedures:

Timing belt replacement, turbocharger system diagnosis and repair, AYC (Active Yaw Control) system service, ACD (Active Center Differential) system service, clutch bleeding, brake bleeding, wheel alignment procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference

Resolution:

High-resolution scans or original digital files ensuring clarity of diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled

Displacement:

1997 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Ps:

280 PS @ 6500 rpm (JDM/Euro spec), 271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM spec)

Torque Nm:

335 Nm @ 3500 rpm (JDM/Euro spec), 273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Turbocharger Type:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G6-10.5T (or similar variant)

Intercooler Type:

Front-mounted air-to-air intercooler

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag MD741)

Type Optional:

N/A (Manual transmission was standard for Evo VIII)

All Wheel Drive:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and optional Active Yaw Control (AYC) on some models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil requirements (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil). Capacity approximately 2.6 Liters.

Transfer Case Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil requirements. Capacity approximately 0.8 Liters.

Rear Differential Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific GL-5 gear oil requirements (especially if LSD equipped). Capacity approximately 1.2 Liters.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4490 mm (176.8 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2625 mm (103.3 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 135 mm (5.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1450 kg (3086-3197 lbs) depending on trim and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate or manual.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.37 cubic meters (13.0 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Refer to NHTSA or IIHS for specific model year ratings. Generally performed well for its class and era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Acd:

Active Center Differential (ACD) for variable torque split

Ayc:

Active Yaw Control (AYC) on select models for enhanced cornering stability.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on market)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced body structure for enhanced crash protection

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Speaker configurations vary by market and trim. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

Instrumentation:

Performance-oriented digital and analog gauges, including boost gauge, oil pressure, and voltmeter. Gear shift indicator on some models.

Traction Control:

Traction control system integrated with AWD and AYC/ACD.

Wiring Diagrams:

The manual includes detailed wiring diagrams essential for diagnosing and repairing any electrical faults.

OBD Ii:

On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant, allowing for scan tool diagnostics and retrieval of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 is recommended. Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., API SN or ACEA A3/B4).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Refer to manual for specific plug type and gap.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years due to interference engine design. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant (usually red or pink, compatible with Asian vehicles). Capacity approx. 7.5 Liters.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual; typically ATF Dexron III or equivalent.

Common Problems:

Turbocharger wear/failure, AYC pump failure, clutch wear, catalytic converter issues, radiator leaks, rocker arm failure (if not maintained properly), fuel pump failure.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil, timely timing belt replacement, proper coolant maintenance, and checking AYC fluid levels are critical for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Motorsport Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a deep-rooted history in rallying, with the Lancer Evolution series being a direct product of its World Rally Championship (WRC) efforts. The Evo VIII is a testament to this racing pedigree.

Generation Placement:

The Lancer Evolution VIII is the eighth generation of the acclaimed Evo line, succeeding the Evo VII and preceding the Evo IX. It introduced significant chassis and mechanical improvements.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Production Run Years:

2003-2005 (Evo VIII/IX platform)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Dominance:

The Lancer Evolution lineage, including the Evo VIII, has achieved significant success in various motorsport disciplines, particularly the FIA World Rally Championship.

Enthusiast Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its handling, performance, and all-wheel-drive capabilities.

Manual Certification:

Represents factory-level documentation, the industry standard for vehicle repair and maintenance.