Positioning:
Performance-oriented sports coupe sold by Chrysler and Dodge divisions, utilizing Mitsubishi mechanicals.
Competitors:
Direct competitors included models like the Toyota Celica, Nissan 200SX/300ZX, Mazda RX-7, and Ford Mustang.
Design:
Rear-wheel drive, sporty coupe styling, often featuring turbocharged engines and advanced suspension for its era.
Utility For Owner:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the vehicle, saving costs and extending lifespan.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (service, overhaul, diagnosis)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment
Steering:
Steering system components, power steering
Brakes:
Brake system, hydraulic components, power assist, parking brake
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various systems, fault finding charts
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major components
Electrical Diagnostics:
Diagnosis and repair of electrical system faults, including wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive, detailed, suitable for DIY and professional mechanics
Detail Level:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, enlarged insets for detail
Engine Type:
2.6L Inline-4 SOHC (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 116 hp @ 4800 RPM (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 145-170 hp @ 5000 RPM (Turbocharged variants, depending on intercooling and boost levels)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 210-240 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 RPM (Turbocharged variants)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Efi System:
Electronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Distributor
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch Actuation (Manual Transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (typical recommendation, consult manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
NHTSA Ratings:
Data not readily available for 1988 models in this format.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (optional Rear Disc)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear.
Airbags:
No driver or passenger airbags offered for this model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specifics based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with timing belt (some G54B variants may use timing chain), typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity and API service rating)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Turbocharger:
Turbocharger seals can degrade over time, leading to oil consumption or boost leaks. Proper maintenance and oil changes are crucial.
Fuel Injectors:
Clogging of fuel injectors can occur, impacting performance and fuel economy. Cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can wear out, leading to clunking noises and imprecise handling.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in electrical connectors can cause intermittent issues.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation, in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors.
Platform Origin:
Based on the Mitsubishi Galant Lambda coupe (shared with the Dodge Stealth's precursor, the Mitsubishi GTO/3000GT).
Production Period:
1984-1987 (marketed as Plymouth Laser and Mitsubishi Starion/Conquest concurrently in some periods).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (produced by Mitsubishi)
