Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Competitive Set:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze.
Strengths:
Sporty styling (especially Ralliart/Evolution variants), available AWD, good handling characteristics, perceived reliability.
Variant Highlights:
Includes coverage for standard Lancer models, performance-oriented Ralliart, and the iconic Evolution X (though specific Evo diagnostics might require dedicated sub-manuals).
Manual Value:
Provides factory-level repair information for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all gasoline engines offered during this period (e.g., 4A91, 4B10, 4B11, 4B12).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission servicing, repair, overhaul, and diagnostics (including CVT for applicable models).
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, drive shafts, and CV joints.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, Brake assist, disc and drum brake servicing, caliper and master cylinder repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications, and wheel bearing replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic and electric), steering column, tie rods, and alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, ECU diagnostics, lighting systems, power windows, wipers, and accessory circuits.
Bodywork:
Exterior panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and body repair procedures.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling, heater core and evaporator replacement, blower motor diagnosis.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seat belt mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Routine oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, and interval-based inspections.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), and component-specific diagnostic tests.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and assembly sequences.
Specifications:
Extensive technical data, torque values, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Codes:
4A91 (1.5L), 4B10 (1.8L MIVEC), 4B11 (2.0L MIVEC), 4B11T (2.0L Turbocharged MIVEC - Ralliart/Evo), 4B12 (2.4L MIVEC)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 107 hp (1.5L) to 291 hp (Evolution X)
Torque Range:
Approx. 103 lb-ft (1.5L) to 300 lb-ft (Evolution X)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) depending on engine variant.
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine; consult manual for specifics).
Drive Type:
Timing Chain (for 4B1x engines), Timing Belt (for some 4A9x engines).
System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Type AWD:
5-speed Manual, 6-speed Manual (Evo), INVECS-III CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Sports Mode, 6-speed TC-SST (Twin Clutch-SST) for Ralliart/Evo.
Type FWD:
5-speed Manual, INVECS-III CVT.
Awc System:
Covers Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super AYC (Active Yaw Control) for AWD models (Ralliart/Evo).
Atf Type:
Refer to manual for specific ATF (e.g., DIA QUEEN ATF-J2/J3 for INVECS-III CVT, specific fluids for TC-SST).
Manual Gear Oil:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil recommendations.
NHTSA Rating:
Generally 4-5 stars for frontal and side impact in relevant testing cycles (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP), specific ratings vary by year and test region.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Traction Control:
Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) often standard or available.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side curtain airbags, and optional front seat-mounted side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters in front seats, three-point seatbelts in rear.
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and touchscreen navigation systems.
Connectivity:
USB input, auxiliary audio jack, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Keyless entry and start systems available on higher trims.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine/oil type.
Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Replace typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).
Coolant:
Replace coolant every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for initial service, then as per manual recommendations (often longer intervals for long-life coolants).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30) and API classification (e.g., API SN/SP).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid or equivalent (for hydraulic systems).
Cv Boots:
Premature wear or splitting of front CV joint boots leading to noise and eventual joint failure.
Suspension Components:
Wear in front control arm bushings and rear trailing arm bushings can lead to clunking noises and poor alignment.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust system, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
Transmission Issues:
CVT belt wear or shuddering; early reports of issues with the TC-SST dual-clutch transmission on some performance models.
Engine Mounts:
Deterioration of engine and transmission mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in rally racing and performance vehicles, influencing the Lancer's DNA, especially the Evolution models.
Ninth Gen Launch:
Introduced in late 2007 for the 2008 model year, based on the new Global Platform.
Body Styles:
Available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (Sportback).
Assembly Locations:
Primarily Japan (Mizushima Plant) and also in other global facilities depending on market.
