Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Carisma was positioned as a compact family car, often competing in the European C-segment against vehicles like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, and Volkswagen Golf. It aimed to offer reliability and practicality.
Competitors:
Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Volkswagen Golf, Renault Mégane, Peugeot 306, Nissan Almera, Toyota Corolla.
Highlights:
The Carisma offered a comfortable ride, practical interior space, and a range of efficient engines. Its reliability was a key selling point, supported by Mitsubishi's engineering.
Vehicle Coverage:
All Mitsubishi Carisma models from 1996 to 2000, encompassing all engine variants, trim levels, and transmission types.
Estimated Page Count:
Significant (exact count not specified, but described as 'COMPLETE' and covering 'every single detail')
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine And Powertrain:
Detailed information on engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system (injection, carburetion if applicable), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, and engine management systems.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Coverage includes manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch system, drive axles, differentials, and transfer cases (if applicable).
Chassis And Suspension:
Includes front and rear suspension systems, steering system, wheel bearings, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Comprehensive data on hydraulic brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc and drum brake components, and brake fluid specifications.
Electrical And Electronics:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, lighting systems, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, and control modules.
Body And Interior:
Information on body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
Maintenance:
Step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and component replacement for all major vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications:
Inclusion of all essential technical data, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Depth:
High. Covers complete disassembly of the machine, intended for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics. Includes detailed exploded views and diagrams.
Engine Options:
1.3L (4G13), 1.6L (4G92), 1.8L (4G93), 1.8L GDI (4G93), 1.9L TD (F9Q diesel).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 75 HP (1.3L) to 125 HP (1.8L GDI).
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, with diesel engines offering higher torque figures for cruising.
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for most gasoline engines, direct injection for GDI variants, and direct injection for diesel engines.
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission, depending on engine and trim.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type depending on the transmission model (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent). Manual transmission uses GL-4 gear oil.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Length:
Approx. 4450 mm (175.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1200-1350 kg (2645-2976 lbs) depending on engine and specification.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in product info, but typically around 1700-1800 kg.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not widely published for this specific period, but comparable vehicles of its era generally scored 3-4 stars.
Active Safety:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), optional Traction Control (TCL) on some higher trims.
Passive Safety:
Driver and passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones, side-impact protection bars.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine oil type and viscosity.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Usually every 60,000-90,000 km (40,000-60,000 miles) or 4-5 years, depending on engine. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion inhibitors. Usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Mitsubishi coolant recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Corrosion on exhaust system components, occasional electrical gremlins (especially window regulators and central locking), wear on suspension bushings, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, some reports of early clutch wear.
Filter Part Numbers:
Specific part numbers for oil, air, and cabin filters vary by engine and supplier; the manual will provide these details for genuine and aftermarket equivalents.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing reliable and durable vehicles, known for their engineering prowess, especially in areas like four-wheel drive and performance engines.
Generation Timeline:
The Mitsubishi Carisma was a joint venture with Volvo and was produced from 1995 (as a 1996 model) to 2004. This manual covers the first generation from its introduction.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Born, Netherlands, at the NedCar plant.
