🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer

Year:

2003

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Mazda3.

Appeal:

Known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, often appealing to budget-conscious buyers and first-time car owners.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service Repair

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed engine overhaul, diagnostics, and repair procedures for all gasoline engines.

Transmission:

Complete coverage for manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service, including hydraulic components, ABS, and parking brake.

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing, and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, steering system components, wheel alignment, and related repairs.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, interior trim removal, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and chassis components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues with diagnostic flowcharts.

Repair:

Detailed repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal and installation.

Rebuild:

In-depth procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including specifications and clearances.

Depth:

From basic DIY maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes, text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Binding:

Not Applicable (PDF Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (PDF Download)

Language:

English

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

Commonly found with 4G1 series (e.g., 4G13, 4G15) and 4G9 series (e.g., 4G93) gasoline engines. Specific engines can vary by market.

Displacement:

1.3L (1300cc), 1.5L (1500cc), 1.8L (1800cc), 2.0L (2000cc) depending on variant.

Horsepower:

Varies by engine and market, typically ranging from 75 hp to 145 hp.

Torque:

Varies by engine, typically ranging from 110 Nm to 180 Nm.

Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

Block Material:

Typically cast iron or aluminum alloy block.

Head Material:

Typically aluminum alloy cylinder head.

Drive Type:

Timing belt or timing chain depending on the specific engine variant.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transmission.

Type:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) is standard. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) may be available on certain performance or specific market variants.

Automatic Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., DIAQueen J3 or equivalent).

Manual Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) type.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by body style (sedan, hatchback), typically around 4.3-4.5 meters.

Width:

Varies by body style, typically around 1.7 meters.

Height:

Varies by body style, typically around 1.4-1.5 meters.

Curb Weight:

Typically ranges from 1050 kg to 1250 kg depending on configuration.

Bolt Pattern:

Typically 4x100 or 4x114.3.

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 175/70R14, 185/65R14, 195/55R15, depending on trim and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Refer to the manual for specific safety ratings from agencies like NHTSA or IIHS for the 2003 model year and relevant markets.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) may be available on higher trims.

Airbags:

Front airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags may be optional depending on trim and market.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD stereo systems, with optional premium sound or cassette players on some trims.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely standard, aftermarket solutions often required for audio device connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult the manual for precise intervals.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for applicable engines. Recommended replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (100,000 to 150,000 km). Refer to manual for specific engine.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary based on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Typically 30,000 to 100,000 miles. Manual is essential for correct type and interval.

Engine Oil Grade:

Commonly SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, but verify with the manual for specific engine and climate.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a green or blue type. Ensure compatibility and correct mixture ratio.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Complaints:

Potential issues include ignition coil failure, minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints), and occasional transmission solenoid issues in automatics. Timing belt maintenance is crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker known for a diverse range of vehicles including SUVs, sedans, and performance cars.

Generation:

The 2003 model year typically falls within the seventh generation of the Lancer (and its variations like the Colt).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with production also occurring in other global facilities depending on market demand.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Performance:

The Lancer platform has a history in motorsports, particularly rallying (WRC), lending a performance image to some variants. Consumer awards may vary by region and specific year.