🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

CS Series

Engine Code Primary:

4G94 (2.0L SOHC)

Engine Code Optional:

4G63 (2.0L Turbocharged - Evolution models)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer was positioned as a compact car offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and available sportier trims (like the Ralliart and the iconic Evolution) appealing to a broad consumer base, from daily commuters to performance enthusiasts.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against strong rivals in the compact segment such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Mazda3. The Lancer distinguished itself with its unique styling, especially in Evolution trims, and its robust platform derived from rally racing heritage.

Key Features:

Reliable powertrain options, comfortable interior, available all-wheel drive (AWC) on select models (notably Evolution), sporty handling, and a growing reputation for its performance variants.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, Australia

Page Count:

1500+ pages (estimated for comprehensive software)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive factory service manual covering diagnostics, repair, and maintenance.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF-based, potentially interactive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (Axles, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), Body Electrical (Lighting, Wipers, Horns), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Body & Frame, Interior Components, Exterior Components, SRS (Airbag) System, OBD-II Diagnostics

Drivetrain Awc:

Specific coverage for Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system, including Active Yaw Control (AYC) operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

OBD Ii Diagnostics:

Detailed explanation of OBD-II system, common trouble codes (DTCs), and procedures for reading and clearing codes.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic procedures, Component removal and installation, Repair and overhaul procedures, Electrical system testing and repair, Wiring diagrams, Torque specifications, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their resolution, Pre-delivery inspection (PDI), Body repair and alignment, HVAC system service, Brake bleeding and component replacement, Suspension and steering alignment

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including specifications for clearances and wear limits.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing electrical faults, including component testing, circuit tracing, and interpretation of wiring diagrams.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

Troubleshooting Depth:

Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely installable, potentially with search functionality)

Searchable Text:

Likely Yes (standard for modern service software)

Interactivity:

Potentially includes clickable links, embedded diagrams, and search functionality.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (4G94)

Horsepower Primary:

Approx. 120-135 hp (depending on market and specific tune)

Torque Primary:

Approx. 130-135 lb-ft

Compression Ratio Primary:

Approximately 9.5:1 (4G94)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (91 octane recommended for Evolution models)

Optional Engine:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63T - Lancer Evolution)

Horsepower Optional Evo:

Approx. 271-286 hp (for Evolution VIII/IX depending on sub-model)

Torque Optional Evo:

Approx. 273-284 lb-ft

Bore X Stroke Primary:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm (4G94)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (INVECS-II)

Transmission Features:

Available with Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system on Evolution models, featuring Active Yaw Control (AYC) and a mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) center differential.

Gear Ratios Manual Example:

First: 3.333, Second: 1.947, Third: 1.379, Fourth: 1.030, Fifth: 0.848, Reverse: 2.815, Final Drive: 4.300 (typical for 5-speed - specific ratios may vary by model)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.3 inches (2625 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4505 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.9 inches (1470 mm)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 59.3 inches (1505 mm)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 59.1 inches (1500 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2700-3000 lbs (1225-1360 kg) for non-turbo models

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Consult specific model documentation; typically around 3900-4200 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

Good (for models tested)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

Good (for models tested)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (for models tested)

Active Features:

Optional ABS, Traction Control (TCL)

Passive Features:

Front airbags, Optional side-impact airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, available upgraded audio systems, power windows, power locks, keyless entry.

Infotainment Features Optional:

Optional premium audio systems with more speakers, potential for dealer-installed CD changers.

Infotainment Features Standard:

AM/FM stereo, CD player, 4 speakers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, ABS on most models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by 2004 standards; primarily focused on audio system inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal duty) - consult specific manual for confirmation.

Timing Belt Interval:

60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (for 4G94 engine) - Critical maintenance item.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-II or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on climate)

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Diamond ATF SP-III (or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-III ATF or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90

Known Issues:

Excessive oil consumption (especially on higher mileage 4G94 engines), catalytic converter failure, minor electrical gremlins, clutch wear (manual transmissions), rear differential issues on some AWD models if not properly maintained.

Known Issues Transmission Auto:

Occasional rough shifting or solenoid issues with the INVECS-II automatic transmission.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1917, known for its innovative engineering and particularly its success in rally motorsport.

Model Evolution:

The 2004 Lancer is part of the seventh generation (CS/CT platform) of the Lancer family. This generation saw significant redesigns, including more aerodynamic styling and the introduction of the potent Lancer Evolution VIII and IX models to North America, solidifying its performance credentials.

Key Evolution Points Seventh Gen:

Introduction of shared global platform, increased size and refinement over previous generations, expanded range of trims and powertrains, significant focus on performance variants (Evolution).

Competitive Advantages Evo Gen:

Advanced AWD system, potent turbocharged engine, sophisticated chassis tuning derived from WRC success.

Production Locations:

Primary production in Japan; also assembled in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Lancer Evolution models are consistently recognized for performance and handling; specific awards for the base Lancer vary by region and publication, often cited for value and reliability in its segment.