🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VIII

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

CT9A

Engine Code:

4G63T

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (Evo VIII) is a high-performance compact sports sedan, renowned for its rally-bred engineering, all-wheel-drive system, and turbocharged engine. It occupies a significant niche in the enthusiast car market, competing with vehicles like the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, Ford Focus RS (later models).

Performance Focus:

Focus on tarmac and gravel rally performance, advanced all-wheel-drive technology, potent turbocharged engine.

Handling Prowess:

Exceptional grip and agility due to ACD and S-AYC systems, performance-tuned suspension.

Driver Engagement:

Manual transmission, direct steering feedback, and powerful braking system contribute to a highly engaging driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Overview:

Comprehensive service and repair for all aspects of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII 2005.

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, turbocharger operation and diagnosis, emission control systems, ECU diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Operation, dis assembly, assembly, repair, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms.

Transmission Awc:

Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) system operation, diagnosis, and calibration.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system hydraulics, calipers, rotors, brake pads, ABS system diagnosis and repair, EBD.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, horn, power windows, locks.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard assembly.

Body Exterior:

Bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid, glass, seals.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic trees and common problem identification.

Repair:

Step-by-step disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly procedures for all major systems.

Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and tolerances.

Component Testing:

Methods for testing the functionality of individual components.

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair information for technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4G63T DOHC Inline-4, turbocharged and intercooled

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1997 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves, MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on intake camshaft

Turbocharger:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G 8cm² twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler

Horsepower Ps:

265 PS @ 6500 RPM (JDM/UKDM spec)

Horsepower Hp:

271 hp @ 6500 RPM (USDM spec, often cited)

Torque Nm:

330 Nm @ 3500 RPM (JDM/UKDM spec)

Torque Lb-Ft:

243 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (USDM spec, often cited)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, premium (91+ octane recommended for optimal performance)

Fuel Pump:

High-pressure electric fuel pump

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed manual transmission (Getrag Type G)

Type:

None (Manual transmission was standard)

Awc System:

Active Center Differential (ACD) with driver-selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow)

Rear Differential:

Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) rear differential on some models

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4415 mm (173.8 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2625 mm (103.3 in)

Front Track:

1515 mm (59.6 in)

Rear Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Ground Clearance:

135 mm (5.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1900 kg (4189 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.33 m³ (11.6 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star driver, 4-star passenger (USDM 2005 model)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags, though not standard on all '05 Evos)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Traction Control:

Active Stability Control (ASC) / Traction Control System (TCS)

AWD System:

All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super AYC

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional front side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced body structure for enhanced crashworthiness, based on Lancer chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory fitted AM/FM/CD player. Often replaced with aftermarket units due to limited functionality and sound quality.

Speakers:

Standard 6-speaker system (door speakers, tweeters, rear speakers).

Stability Control:

Active Stability Control (ASC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are standard features.

AWD System:

The advanced ACD and S-AYC systems provide significant dynamic stability and grip enhancement.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Recommendation:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. More frequent changes recommended for track use.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR7E-11) or check manual for specific iridium/platinum types.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it fails.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil:

API SG, SH, or SJ classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (synthetic recommended for performance).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid:

Gear oil API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Genuine Gear Oil).

Transfer Case Fluid:

Gear oil API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Genuine Gear Oil).

Rear Differential Fluid:

Gear oil API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Genuine Gear Oil).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, pre-mixed with deionized water. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) recommended.

Engine Wear:

Piston ring wear leading to increased oil consumption, particularly with aggressive driving or high mileage. Connecting rod failure can occur with excessive power modifications without internal engine strengthening.

Turbocharger Issues:

Wastegate actuator failure, oil leaks, and bearing wear can occur. Regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures are critical.

Acd S Ayc Failures:

Problems with the ACD pump, solenoids, or AYC unit can lead to system errors or reduced performance. Fluid changes and sensor checks are important.

Clutch Wear:

The clutch can wear out prematurely with aggressive driving, especially in high-power applications.

Rust Corrosion:

Common on older vehicles, particularly in areas with road salt. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody.

📚 Vehicle History

Rally Roots:

Mitsubishi's long and successful history in the World Rally Championship (WRC) heavily influenced the development of the Lancer Evolution series.

Evo Lineage:

The Lancer Evolution VIII (CT9A) succeeded the Evolution VII and was produced from 2003 to 2005. It represented a significant evolution of the platform, with key mechanical and electronic upgrades.

Key Upgrades From Evo Vii:

Improved ACD system, stronger gearbox, revised suspension geometry, updated turbocharger and engine management.

Variants:

GSR (premium trim), RS (homologation/sport-focused trim), MR (Momo Racing Edition - limited).

Production Years:

2003-2005

Manufacturing Location:

Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its exceptional handling, performance, and value in the sports sedan segment. Often ranked among the top performance cars of its era.

Rally Homologation:

The Evolution VIII was developed with homologation requirements for the WRC in mind, ensuring its performance DNA was deeply rooted in motorsport.