Vehicle Class:
Compact Sports Sedan / Performance Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, motorsport participants, professional mechanics, advanced DIYers
Key Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, Audi S3
Performance Focus:
Renowned for its advanced all-wheel-drive system, turbocharged engine, and rally-bred heritage
Technical Innovation:
Features innovative technologies like the Twin Clutch SST transmission and sophisticated S-AYC system
Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the highly complex systems of the Lancer Evolution X
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger system, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) operation, maintenance, and repair; Manual Transmission (if applicable to specific models covered)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Control (AWC) system, Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, geometry, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Brakes:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, traction control
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, charging system, lighting, power accessories, ECUs
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and repair
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk, glass, trim, paint repair (2008 Body Manual)
Body Interior:
Interior trim panels, seats, dashboard, airbags, safety restraints
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, tolerances for all components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electronic system diagnostics and specific fault finding
Body Repair Detail:
Detailed procedures for structural repairs, panel replacement, welding, and sealant application (from 2008 Body Manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2,654 mm)
Length:
Approx. 178.5 inches (4,534 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches (1,816 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1,466 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,600 lbs (1,588 - 1,633 kg) depending on transmission and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,600 lbs (2,087 kg)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 cubic feet (283 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for specific model years/configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely 'Good' ratings in relevant crash tests for its era.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, EBD, Traction Control (TCL), Active Stability Control (ASC), Hill Start Assist (HSA)
AWD System:
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with ACD and S-AYC
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Infotainment System:
Features a Rockford Fosgate audio system on higher trims, optional navigation system
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming on certain trims/packages
Key Assistance Features:
Keyless entry and ignition, cruise control, automatic climate control (on some trims)
Performance Modes:
Driver-selectable modes for S-AWC (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) influencing ACD and S-AYC behavior
OBD Ii:
Standard OBD-II port for diagnostics and emissions testing
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual)
Transmission Fluid Sst:
Crucial to follow specific SST fluid change intervals, often around 20,000-30,000 miles (refer to manual for precise schedule)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (depends on plug type)
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 API SM or higher (refer to manual for precise specification and capacity)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual)
Sst Transmission Longevity:
SST transmissions can be sensitive to maintenance and driving style; regular fluid changes are critical. Some models experienced issues with clutch wear or mechatronic units.
Engine Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can experience carbon buildup on intake valves, requiring periodic cleaning (e.g., walnut blasting).
Turbocharger Wear:
Like all turbocharged vehicles, turbocharger longevity depends on proper maintenance and avoiding excessive heat soak.
Ayc Pump Failure:
The AYC hydraulic pump is a known wear item, and failure can lead to a loss of rear-wheel steering effect.