Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV, released in 1996, was a pivotal model in the storied Evo lineage. It represented a significant leap in performance and technology, solidifying its position as a dominant force in rallying and a highly sought-after performance car for enthusiasts worldwide. This manual provides the essential technical documentation for maintaining and repairing these iconic vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
The Evo IV competed against other performance-oriented AWD sedans of its era, such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Its advanced AYC system and potent 4G63T engine set it apart, offering exceptional handling and power. This manual is crucial for owners aiming to keep these complex machines performing at their peak.
Key Features:
Introduction of the new 'Evo IV' body style, significant aerodynamic enhancements including a larger rear spoiler and aggressive front bumper, the introduction of the AYC (Active Yaw Control) system for improved cornering stability, and revised engine internals for increased power output. This manual thoroughly covers these advancements.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, component testing, timing belt, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition system, turbocharger system, emission controls.
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (4-speed) transmission overhaul, clutch system, drivetrain, viscous coupling unit (VCU), AYC (Active Yaw Control) system.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension geometry, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, power steering system, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid service, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ECUs (Engine Control Unit, ABS ECU, AYC ECU), sensors, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair and replacement, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, underbody, corrosion protection.
Heating Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant service, blower motor, A/C compressor, heater core, climate controls.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, turbocharger rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code interpretation.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II), scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams.
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
1997 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) @ 6,500 rpm (JDM spec)
Torque:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3,000 rpm (JDM spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 98 RON or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant) twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (less common and generally not found on performance-oriented models)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with AYC (Active Yaw Control) and ACD (Active Center Differential)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact Mitsubishi specification)
Transfer Case Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi specification
Ayc Pump Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi specification (likely Dexron III or equivalent)
Length:
4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Front Track:
1,510 mm (59.4 in)
Rear Track:
1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1,360 kg (2,998 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to manual
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size Standard:
16x7 inches (Ralliart, GSR models), 17x7.5 inches (RS, RS-R models)
Tire Size Standard:
205/50R16 (GSR), 215/45R17 (RS)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Vehicles of this era often did not have standardized crash test ratings comparable to modern vehicles. Focus is on inherent safety design.)
Active Features:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) system, ACD (Active Center Differential), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), optional LSD (Limited Slip Differential) in rear for RS models.
Passive Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners, reinforced chassis structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially under hard driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact OEM recommendations.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles)
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or 2 years
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or 2 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (56,000 - 62,000 miles) or 5 years. Crucial for the 4G63T engine.
Engine Oil Spec:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended for performance use). Refer to manual for exact Mitsubishi specification.
Engine Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors) - typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues:
Head gasket failure (especially when modified), turbocharger wear (oil starvation, seal failure), AYC system pump failure or leaks, clutch wear, potential rust in common areas, ECU capacitor failure.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a rich history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The Lancer Evolution series was born out of this racing heritage, designed to homologate rally cars for competition.
Model Evolution To Evo4:
The Evo IV built upon the foundations of its predecessors (Evo I-III), introducing significant chassis and drivetrain advancements. It marked a clear divergence in styling and technological integration, setting the stage for future Evo generations.
Production Years:
1996 - 1998
Production Location:
Japan
Notable Variants:
GSR (Grand Sport Racing), RS (Rally Sport - often lighter, more stripped-down version), RS-R (Rally Sport - Rally homologation special).