Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer, particularly in its Evolution guise, occupied a significant niche in the performance sedan market, offering accessible rally-bred technology.
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX/STI, Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Ford Focus SVT.
Lancer Features:
Reliable powertrain, practical interior, aerodynamic Sportback option, sporty styling.
Evolution Features:
Advanced AWD system (ACD/AYC/DCCD), turbocharged 4G63 engine, Brembo brakes, Bilstein suspension, aggressive aerodynamics.
Value:
This manual is an indispensable resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing Mitsubishi Lancers, including the highly complex Evolution models, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing components.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, ECU diagnosis and troubleshooting, sensor data.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, shift mechanism, gear ratios, servicing.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gears, valve body, electronic controls, fluid changes, servicing.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (AWD) for Evolution, driveshafts, differentials, transfer case (Evolution).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link/independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (including sensors, modulator), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and rotor replacement.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, HVAC controls.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, mounting points.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module diagnosis.
Evolution Specific Systems:
Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) for Evo models.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement).
Overhaul Instructions:
Detailed guidance for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for various systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Full workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes diagnostic procedures, trouble codes (DTCs), and sensor data interpretation.
Rebuild Capability:
Covers complete engine and transmission rebuilds with detailed component specifications.
Engine Code Evo:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC MIVEC Turbocharged Inline-4)
Engine Code Lancer Sportback:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC Inline-4) or 4G15 (1.5L SOHC Inline-4) - Varies by market and specific trim.
Horsepower Evo Viii:
Approximately 271 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM) / 280 PS (JDM).
Torque Evo Viii:
Approximately 273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (USDM) / 37 kgm (JDM).
Bore Stroke 4G63T:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio 4G63T:
8.8:1
Fuel Delivery Evo:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), high-flow injectors, higher-pressure fuel pump.
Fuel Type Evo:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
Fuel Type Lancer Sportback:
Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2630 mm (Lancer/Sportback), 2625 mm (Evolution VIII).
Length:
Approximately 4475 mm (Lancer Sedan), 4280 mm (Sportback), 4490 mm (Evolution VIII).
Width:
Approximately 1760 mm (Lancer/Sportback), 1770 mm (Evolution VIII).
Height:
Approximately 1445 mm (Lancer Sedan), 1475 mm (Sportback), 1450 mm (Evolution VIII).
Curb Weight Lancer Sportback:
Approximately 1250 - 1350 kg (depending on engine and transmission).
Curb Weight Evo Viii:
Approximately 1400 kg.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm
Tire Size Evo Stock:
235/45R17
Tire Size Lancer Stock:
Varies by trim, commonly 195/60R15 or 205/55R16
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months for older vehicles, 7,500-10,000 miles for synthetic oil (check manual).
Timing Belt Replacement 4G63:
Recommended every 60,000 - 70,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial for the 4G63T engine to prevent catastrophic failure.
Spark Plug Replacement 4G63T:
Iridium spark plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles. Platinum: 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
For 4G63T: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic oil (API SG/SH/SJ or higher). Check manual for exact viscosity based on climate.
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent OAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
4G63T Common Issues:
Turbocharger wear, head gasket failure (especially if neglected or heavily modified), valve seal leaks, worn piston rings leading to oil consumption.
Lancer Common Issues:
Exhaust manifold cracks, minor electrical gremlins, suspension wear, rust on early models, automatic transmission issues in high-mileage vehicles.
Evolution Specific Issues:
ACD/AYC pump failure, clutch wear (especially with aggressive driving), differential wear, turbo coolant hose leaks.