Positioning:
The Mitsubishi 380 was a mid-size sedan produced specifically for the Australian market, aimed at competing with established players like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon. It represented Mitsubishi's final locally manufactured passenger vehicle in Australia.
Competitors:
Holden Commodore (VZ/VE), Ford Falcon (BF/FG), Toyota Camry (XV30/XV40), Toyota Aurion.
Vehicle Attributes:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, robust V6 engine, emphasis on Australian driving conditions and tastes.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Benefit:
Provides factory-level insights, enabling owners to make informed maintenance decisions and perform repairs effectively, potentially saving costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, electronic engine controls (ECU), sensor diagnostics, actuator testing.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (likely INVECS-II or similar), removal, installation, overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), disc brakes, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, bumpers, structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant service, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, climate control panel.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components and diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problems and solutions, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair:
Specific repair procedures for worn or damaged components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake repairs, electrical fault finding.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine controls, comfort features.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code:
6G75 (SOHC V6)
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3798 cc)
Configuration:
V6, 24 Valves (SOHC)
Horsepower:
Approx. 176 kW (236 hp) @ 5250 rpm (varies slightly by trim)
Torque:
Approx. 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by trim)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant - Green)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (depending on filter)
Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM
Timing Drive:
Timing Belt (critical maintenance item)
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 90,000 km (Iridium tipped plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 100,000 km or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 km or 48 months.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 100,000 km or 7 years, then every 50,000 km or 4 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to specific model year requirements).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III / Mercon or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.
Common Problems:
Premature wear on front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), potential transmission control issues (less common), HVAC blower motor resistor failures, timing belt service is critical to avoid major engine damage.