Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Mazda3
Strengths:
Sporty handling (especially with AWD), good value proposition, available performance variants (e.g., Ralliart, Evolution - though this manual likely covers standard models)
Powertrain Options:
Likely 2.0L and 2.4L inline-4 engines, optional All-Wheel Control (AWC) system
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive styling, driver-focused interior
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger (if applicable), ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual transmission (clutch, gears, shifting mechanism), Automatic transmission (ATF, torque converter, valve body, gearsets, electronic controls)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (AWC) system (transfer case, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints)
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), Rear suspension (multi-link, shock absorbers, springs), wheel alignment
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid, calipers, rotors, pads
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heating system, climate control
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, upholstery, dashboard, trim components
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, grille, hood, trunk, mirrors, spoilers
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, transmission rebuild/repair, suspension overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, OBD-II scan tool procedures, wiring diagram interpretation
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Specifications Torques:
Tightening torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code Typical:
4G63 (for some variants), 4B11 (later models, but potentially introduced in 2008)
Displacement Typical:
2.0L (1998cc) and 2.4L (2378cc)
Horsepower Typical 2.0L:
Approx. 152 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Typical 2.0L:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Horsepower Typical 2.4L:
Approx. 162 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Typical 2.4L:
Approx. 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (API SM/SN or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 compatible) - consult owner's manual for exact spec.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 quarts (4.3 - 4.7 liters)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP III or J2 (for CVT)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joint boots can tear, leading to premature wear if not addressed.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a source of humming or grinding noise.
Thermostat:
Thermostat housing or thermostat itself can sometimes fail, causing temperature regulation issues.