Market Position:
The 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (CT9A) was a highly anticipated homologation special designed for rally racing, marketed as a performance-oriented, all-wheel-drive sports sedan. It competed with other potent performance cars of its era, such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Competitive Analysis:
The Evo VIII stood out with its advanced Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD) systems, providing superior handling and traction compared to many competitors. Its turbocharged 4G63 engine offered robust power and tuning potential.
Key Features:
Iconic turbocharged 4G63 engine, sophisticated All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC), aggressive aerodynamic styling, Brembo braking system, lightweight construction, rally-bred performance.
Coverage Areas:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, starting system, charging system, ignition system, manual transmission, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differentials, suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front and rear), ABS, SRS airbag system, body electrical, lighting, HVAC, body panels, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis diagnostics.
Page Count:
Approximately 1000+
Manual Type:
Workshop Supplement Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine (4G63T DOHC MIVEC), Drivetrain (AWD with AYC/ACD), Suspension (MacPherson Strut front, Multi-link rear), Brakes (Brembo), Electrical, HVAC, Body, Fuel, Emissions, Cooling, Lubrication.
Procedures Included:
Diagnosis and troubleshooting, routine maintenance, component inspection and testing, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, special tool requirements, fluid capacities and types, component replacement procedures, alignment specifications.
Diagnostics:
Includes diagnostic flowcharts, trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including power distribution, grounds, sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Technical Depth:
Contains detailed exploded views, part identification, specifications for clearances, pressures, and electrical resistance, as well as step-by-step repair instructions with torque values.
File Format:
Searchable PDF
Print Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Completeness:
This is a 'Supplement' manual, implying it may cover specific systems or updates for the 2003 model year, or focus on areas not detailed in a base service manual. It is designed to complement a full factory service manual. It is expected to provide detailed information for the specified model year and variants.
Primary Engine:
4G63 DOHC 16-valve turbocharged inline-4
Horsepower Hp:
271 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/USDM variants)
Torque Lb-Ft:
273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM/USDM variants)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 94.0 mm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant) with intercooler
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission:
None offered for the 2003 model year.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD)
AWD System:
AYC (Active Yaw Control) on rear differential, ACD (Active Center Differential) with driver-selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow).
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not Rated
Active Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Traction Control (optional/market dependent).
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional/market dependent), reinforced chassis structure, crumple zones, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs. Check and adjust gap during service.
Timing Belt:
Inspect every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), replace approximately every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. (Note: The 4G63 uses a timing belt).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 synthetic recommended for optimal performance and protection. Check owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol-based coolant)
Transmission Fluid Type:
DiaQueen ECO-SUPER MULTI-GEAR OIL (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Differential Fluid Type Front:
DiaQueen LSD GEAR OIL (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 80W-90)
Differential Fluid Type Rear:
DiaQueen LSD GEAR OIL (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 80W-90) for vehicles with AYC, or DiaQueen ECO-SUPER MULTI-GEAR OIL for standard LSD.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended)
Known Issues:
Potential for turbocharger failure due to oil starvation or contamination if maintenance is neglected. Clutch wear is common with aggressive driving. Pre-catalytic converter failure can occur, leading to engine performance issues. Early models had potential for AYC pump failure. Cracked exhaust manifolds on high-mileage vehicles.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where the Lancer Evolution series gained iconic status and numerous victories.
Model Evolution:
The Lancer Evolution VIII, introduced in 2003, was the eighth generation of the performance model, building upon the success of its predecessors. It marked a significant step forward with improved AWD technology and more refined handling.
Production Years:
2003-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Okayama, Japan
Recognitions:
Consistently lauded by automotive publications for its exceptional handling, performance, and rally-inspired engineering. Often considered one of the best performance sedans of its era.
Car And Driver Ranking:
Frequently featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists or similar performance-oriented awards.
Certifications:
N/A (Performance vehicle, not typically rated by safety certification bodies beyond standard crash tests).
