Model:
Lancer (also Colt Lancer in some markets)
Generation:
Sixth Generation (CB/CC series, chassis codes primarily CM, CN, CP, CS for some export markets)
Model Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Vehicle Class:
Compact Car (C-segment)
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable, economical transportation; enthusiasts looking for a platform for modification.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protegé.
Reliability:
Known for its robust mechanical components and good long-term reliability, especially with proper maintenance.
Affordability:
Generally positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle in its class.
Sporty Variants:
Offered in sporty variants like the GSR and Evolution (though Evo models are typically not covered in a standard Lancer manual, they share basic platform elements) which garnered significant motorsport recognition.
Durability:
Reputation for withstanding high mileage and demanding conditions.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, engine specifications, timing belt replacement, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, clutch replacement, shift linkage adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential overhaul, CV joint replacement, driveshaft service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system repair (disc and drum), ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, master cylinder and caliper service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, strut and shock absorber service, ball joint and tie rod end replacement, wheel alignment procedures and specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack and pump service, steering column components.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams for all major systems, lighting, ignition switch, power windows, central locking, starter motor, alternator, battery maintenance.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, collision repair information.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator and condenser service, heater core replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues across all major vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, including detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and diagnostic procedures for engine management and other electronic systems.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for the removal and installation of major components and sub-assemblies.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Family:
Mitsubishi 4G family (e.g., 4G9x series)
Common Engine 1 Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Common Engine 1 Type:
4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve (4G92 variant)
Common Engine 2 Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Common Engine 2 Type:
4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (4G93 variant), including turbocharged MIVEC/GDI versions in some markets.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 HP to 170 HP depending on engine and trim (Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged)
Torque Range:
Approximately 130 Nm to 220 Nm depending on engine and trim.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) in some higher-spec variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by market and engine)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS).
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Belt (requiring regular replacement)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
All Wheel Drive:
Optional on select models, typically paired with AWD systems (e.g., Lancer AWD variants).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4320 mm (169.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in) - varies with body style (sedan/coupe/wagon)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1050 kg to 1300 kg (2315 lbs to 2866 lbs) depending on configuration.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
185/65R14, 195/60R15 (common, varies by trim)
NHTSA Crash Tests:
Ratings vary significantly by market and testing body for this era. Refer to specific regional testing reports.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims and performance variants.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most later models within the range. Side airbags were rare.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced impact zones and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional on later models). Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Dashboard Controls:
Basic analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature. Manual HVAC controls.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels and models equipped with automatic transmission.
Auxiliary Ports:
N/A (This era predates widespread adoption of auxiliary audio inputs or USB ports).
Engine Oil Filter Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 4-7 years. Critical preventative maintenance to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years. Use of Mitsubishi-specified coolant is recommended.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2. Viscosity typically 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check owner's manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 liters (3.7 - 4.8 US quarts) with filter, depending on engine.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and noise, especially under acceleration.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on control arm bushings and sway bar links can cause clunking noises and affect handling.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in regions with harsh winters and road salt, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and the undercarriage.
Automatic Transmission Shifts:
Some models may exhibit rough shifting or delayed engagement, often resolvable with fluid changes and filter service.
Heater Core:
Can develop leaks over time, leading to coolant loss and fogging of the interior windshield.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its engineering prowess and diverse product lineup, including iconic rally cars and reliable everyday vehicles.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has been in continuous production since 1973, evolving through numerous generations and body styles, serving as a cornerstone of Mitsubishi's global passenger car strategy.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Japan, with significant assembly also occurring in other countries through joint ventures and subsidiaries.
Key Variants:
Sedan, Coupe (known as Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant FTO in some markets, though distinct models), Wagon. Performance variants include GSR, RS, and the legendary Lancer Evolution (though Evo is a distinct model, the base chassis is related).
