Market Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Mustang
Platform:
Chrysler's JA/JXI platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring Coupe/Convertible), but with distinct Mitsubishi powertrains and suspension tuning.
Design Era:
Aerodynamic styling, characteristic of the 1990s sports car era.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the potent turbocharged 4G63 engine in the GS-T model, a significant driver of its popularity.
Engine Mechanical:
4G63 (Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged), 6G72 V6 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis, Repair, Tune-up, Emissions Control Systems
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (MPI), Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Pressure Regulator, EVAP System
Ignition System:
Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs, ECU Control, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fans, Coolant Specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Emissions Regulations
Transmission Manual:
W5MG1 (5-Speed AWD Turbo), KM132 (5-Speed FWD NA), KM212 (4-Speed Auto FWD/AWD)
Transmission Automatic:
KM212 (4-Speed FWD/AWD)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, Transfer Case, Driveshafts, CV Joints
Suspension:
Front Struts, Rear Multi-link, Bushings, Springs, Shock Absorbers
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Tie Rods, Steering Column
Brakes:
Front Disc (Vented), Rear Disc, ABS System, Brake Fluid Specifications, Parking Brake
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays
Lighting:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights, Bulb Specifications
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Refrigerant Type (R134a)
Body Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Door Panels, Headliner, Seat Belts
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, Fenders, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seals, Body Panels
Chassis Frame:
Body Structure, Frame Reinforcement
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks/Changes, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper/Rotor Service, Electrical Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Adjustment:
Valve Lash Adjustment (4G63), Clutch Adjustment, Parking Brake Adjustment
Assembly Disassembly:
Complete step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical diagrams and troubleshooting trees.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not extensively tested by modern standards; typical results for the era.
IIHS Ratings:
Data from the 1990s is limited; generally considered average for its class at the time.
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on GS-T and V6 Spyder.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (coupe), 3-point rear seatbelts (spyder).
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and chassis for convertible models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6E-11 recommended for NA, BKR7E-11 for Turbo).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (critical for 4G63 engines).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH SAE 5W-30 (SAE 10W-30 in very cold weather).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 4-cylinder; 4.3 US quarts (4.1 L) without filter for V6.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common on 4G63 due to aging valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the tensioner can lead to catastrophic engine damage on 4G63.
Clutch Wear:
Especially on turbocharged models due to spirited driving.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on control arm and sway bar bushings leads to noise and handling issues.
ABS Module Failure:
Common electrical issue on equipped vehicles.
Turbo Oil Lines:
Degradation and potential blockage of oil feed lines can damage the turbocharger.