🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Year:

1997

Chassis Code General:

CK/CM Series (Global variations exist)

Engine Code Common Europe Asia:

4G13, 4G15

Engine Code Common North America:

4G93

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car, subcompact car (depending on market designation and specific model variant)

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mitsubishi dealerships.

Key Competitors 1997:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mazda 323.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information for owners and technicians, enabling accurate diagnostics and repairs, extending vehicle lifespan.

Uniqueness:

Directly from the manufacturer, ensuring accuracy of procedures, specifications, and technical details not always found in aftermarket manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar e-format)

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 800-1200 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, and timing systems.

Engine Management System Ems:

Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection, ignition systems, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, MAP, CKP, CMP), actuators (injectors, coils), ECU function, and emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Overhaul, clutch system service, gearshift linkage adjustment, and component replacement for manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, fluid service, valve body operation, torque converter service, and general repair procedures for automatic transmissions.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), power steering system service, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service (discs, pads, calipers, drums, shoes), hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped).

Electrical System Body:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, and accessory circuits.

Electrical System Engine:

Engine harness routing, sensor connections, starter motor, alternator, battery charging system.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system servicing (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core service, and climate control system diagnosis.

Body And Chassis:

Exterior panel removal and installation, interior trim components, glass replacement, and basic structural repair information.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and adjustments, brake fluid flush.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, including error code interpretation.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for the complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions.

Repair And Replacement:

Instructions for replacing worn or damaged parts such as brake pads, clutch components, suspension bushings, seals, and gaskets.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Essential technical data, torque specifications, clearance measurements, and wear limits for all major components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for various vehicle systems, aiding in troubleshooting electrical faults.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (searchable text, bookmark support, printable)

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Common Asia Europe:

1.3L (1300cc) and 1.5L (1500cc)

Engine Displacement Common North America:

1.8L (1800cc)

Engine Designation Common Asia Europe:

4G13 (1.3L SOHC), 4G15 (1.5L SOHC)

Engine Designation Common North America:

4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC, naturally aspirated)

Horsepower Range:

70 hp - 145 hp (depending on engine and market)

Torque Range:

80 lb-ft - 120 lb-ft (depending on engine and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (INVECS-II system in some variants)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approx. 4320 mm (170.1 in)

Overall Width:

Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)

Overall Height:

Approx. 1385 mm (54.5 in) to 1400 mm (55.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1050 kg - 1200 kg (2315 lbs - 2645 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw General:

Approx. 1500 kg - 1600 kg (varies by engine and body style)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings General:

Information for this specific year and model may be limited or vary by region. Typically, vehicles of this era received moderate ratings.

ABS Availability:

Optional on many trims, standard on some higher-end or later production models.

Airbags Driver Passenger:

Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, with front pretensioners on some models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. CD players were an option on higher trims or later models.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on some models, typically higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Inputs:

None standard; aftermarket modifications required for aux or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard or platinum).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Critical due to interference engine design in some variants.

Engine Oil Type Viscosity:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for specific engine variant).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check for Mitsubishi specific recommendations.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Atf:

Mitsubishi SP-III or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon might be acceptable but check specific manual).

Manual Transmission Fluid Mtf:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Mounts:

Degradation and cracking of engine and transmission mounts leading to increased vibration.

Radiator And Cooling System:

Corrosion and leaks in the radiator, hoses, and water pump. Overheating issues if not maintained.

Automatic Transmission Performance:

Slipping gears or delayed engagement in older automatic transmissions due to wear or fluid degradation.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar links can cause clunking noises and affect handling.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Certain engine variants (particularly 4G93) can develop cracks in the exhaust manifold, leading to exhaust leaks.

Rust And Corrosion:

Prone to rust, especially in the wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the rear bumper, depending on climate and exposure.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Established Japanese automaker with a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for reliable and sometimes performance-oriented vehicles.

Lancer Generations:

The 1997 Colt Lancer belongs to the fifth generation (1991-1996) or early sixth generation (1995-2000) depending on market introduction timelines. It was often marketed as the 'Colt' in some regions (e.g., Europe, Australia) and 'Lancer' in others (e.g., North America, Japan).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with significant production also in Australia, Thailand, and other global facilities through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 Colt Lancer are not widely publicized, Mitsubishi vehicles of this era were generally recognized for reliability and value in their respective segments.