🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Colt Lancer Lancer Super

Model Years Covered:

1996-2001

Chassis Codes:

CJ, CK, CP Series (Varies by specific market and body style)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Subcompact Car (Globally, depending on specific market designation like Mirage in some regions)

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf

Vehicle Strengths:

Reliability, fuel efficiency, affordability, practicality, surprisingly sporty handling in performance variants (e.g., GSR)

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

Primarily North America, Europe, Australia (specific regional variations may exist)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, engine electrical systems

Transmission:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (including torque converter, hydraulic control, valve body, service and overhaul)

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differentials, axle assemblies

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, shock absorbers), wheel alignment

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, fluid), steering column, manual steering components

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum/disc brakes, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems, instrumentation, power accessories, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis frame (if applicable), corrosion protection

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant circuits, blower motor, controls

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, component removal and installation, component overhaul

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on specific model year), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, clearances, pressures, electrical specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive - covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting guides.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and images, searchable content

Suitability:

Printable for workshop use

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

1.5L (4G15), 1.6L (4G92, 4G93 SOHC/DOHC), 1.8L (4G93, 4G93 DOHC MIVEC) petrol engines. Diesel options may exist in specific markets (e.g., 1.9L Diesel).

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 80 hp (1.5L) to 140+ hp (1.8L DOHC MIVEC GSR)

Torque Range:

Approximately 120 Nm (1.5L) to 170+ Nm (1.8L DOHC MIVEC)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel, ignition, and emissions

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate (manual transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to specific manual for exact OEM specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MITSUBISHI DIA QUEEN ATF-II or equivalent (refer to specific manual for exact OEM specification)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1050 kg - 1250 kg (depending on body style and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for the era are generally moderate; specific data depends on market and equipment. Refer to individual market safety reports.

Braking Assist:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims or as an option.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard on many models from mid-period onwards, optional on earlier models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

Features:

Limited by era; ABS was an option. Cruise control available on higher trims.

Features:

No integrated connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB) in factory systems of this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type, generally 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for interference engines (e.g., 1.8L DOHC MIVEC). Typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km). Consult manual for specific engine.

Engine Oil:

API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (Viscosity depends on climate, consult manual). Typically 4.0-4.5 liters capacity.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Mitsubishi Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact specification)

Power Steering Fluid:

MITSUBISHI PSF or ATF Dexron II (consult manual for exact specification)

Common Problems:

Transmission synchro wear (manual), automatic transmission shifting issues, front suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), catalytic converter failure, minor electrical gremlins (window regulators, door locks), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Generation:

This period typically represents the fourth and fifth generations of the Lancer, with significant redesigns and platform updates.

Production Period:

1996-2001 (Specific model years within this range are covered by the manual)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan, Australia, and other global assembly plants

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Accolades:

The Lancer platform has a history of performance variants like the Evolution (Evo) which garnered significant motorsport acclaim, though this manual covers standard models. Standard Lancers were often recognized for value and reliability in their segment.