🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VIII MR

Year:

2004

Generation:

CT9A

Chassis Code:

CT9A

Engine Code:

4G63T

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR was a homologation special and a highly sought-after performance sedan, positioned as a top-tier, driver-focused sports car. It competed directly with rally-bred homologues and performance icons of its era.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, and other potent turbocharged all-wheel-drive sedans. The MR variant distinguished itself with specific enhancements over the standard Evo VIII.

Key Features:

MR designation ('Mitsubishi Racing'), specific Bilstein suspension tuning, Enkei RPF1 wheels, carbon fiber rear spoiler lip, aluminum roof panel, revised Recaro seats, vortex generator on the roof, and often a short-throw shifter. Known for its sophisticated Super Active Yaw Control (SAYC) and Active Center Differential (ACD).

Design Philosophy:

Driver-centric, homologation-focused design emphasizing performance, handling, and mechanical engagement, directly influenced by Mitsubishi's WRC program.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete factory service and repair coverage for the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR.

Page Count:

Estimate: 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often with searchable text and high-resolution illustrations)

Content Source:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) directly from Mitsubishi.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance Control, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission (6-speed), Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Differential (Front, Center, Rear), Steering System, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (ABS & ACD), Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, Exterior & Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Sensors), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Specifications & Data, Maintenance Schedules.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, component inspection, disassembly, assembly, repair, diagnosis, testing, troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, wiring harness repair, body panel repair, alignment procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, component calibration, system checks.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step repair procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers use of MUT-III (Mitsubishi Multi-Use Tester) or equivalent diagnostic tools for reading DTCs and performing system tests.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes comprehensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, allowing for precise diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Detailed troubleshooting charts and flow diagrams for diagnosing common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, digitally reproduced factory scans for clarity and detail.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Content Accuracy:

Factory authorized data, ensuring highest level of accuracy for all repair and diagnostic procedures.

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF allows for quick access to specific topics or procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63T)

Horsepower:

276 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European spec, often higher in practice/US spec)

Torque:

289 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (JDM/European spec)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI), Turbocharged

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Turbocharger:

Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (or similar variant)

Intercooler:

Air-to-Air Front-Mounted

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 Valves, timing belt driven

Engine Management System:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) with various sensors (MAP, MAF, O2, Knock, etc.).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

N/A (MR typically only offered with 6-speed manual)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, Single-Plate Dry

Drive System:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD)

Super Active Yaw Control:

Standard on MR (SAYC) - electronically controlled rear differential for torque vectoring.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4490 mm (176.8 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2625 mm (103.3 in)

Front Track:

1515 mm (59.6 in)

Rear Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in) - subject to suspension setup.

Curb Weight:

1450 kg (3197 lbs) - approximate for MR

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Typically not prominently listed for performance models)

Fuel Capacity:

55 Liters (14.5 Gallons)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not directly rated as per modern standards, but generally considered robust for its era.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not directly rated.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (SAYC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

Active Yaw Control Modes:

Multiple modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) selectable by the driver for ACD.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags (optional/market dependent), reinforced chassis, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory stereo system (CD player, AM/FM radio). Limited by the era, often aftermarket head units were installed by owners.

Driver Assistance Features:

Active Center Differential (ACD), Super Active Yaw Control (SAYC), ABS, Traction Control System (TCL) - though often disabled by performance drivers.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards. May have features like power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry.

Gauge Cluster:

Includes standard gauges plus a prominent boost gauge. Performance-oriented layout.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty/performance driving recommended).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (check specific plug type recommendations).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Critical component for the 4G63T.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SN/SN PLUS or higher recommended). Refer to manual for exact viscosity and API service classification.

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual. Typically a specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) meeting GL-4 or GL-5 specifications. For ACD/AYC differentials, specific Mitsubishi fluids are often required.

Differential Fluid Type:

Refer to manual. Center differential and rear differential fluids are specific. Hypoid gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for rear diff, specific ACD fluid for center diff.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-performance synthetic recommended for spirited driving).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

DEXRON-III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.

Known Issues:

Connecting rod bearing failure (often due to detonation or oil starvation), turbocharger failure (especially if maintenance is neglected), clutch wear (due to performance driving), premature wear of ACD/AYC pump seals, differential issues if fluids are not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a strong motorsport heritage, particularly in rallying, with numerous World Rally Championship (WRC) victories. The Lancer Evolution line is a direct descendant of this racing pedigree.

Model Evolution:

The Lancer Evolution VIII (CT9A) built upon the success of previous generations, introducing a stronger chassis, improved suspension, and the advanced ACD and SAYC systems. The MR variant represented a further refinement focused on performance and handling.

Production Years:

The Evolution VIII generation was produced from 2003 to 2005. The MR variant was introduced for the 2004 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Model Variants Covered:

Specifically covers the Evolution VIII MR variant. May also contain information applicable to other Evo VIII trims within the same generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently praised by automotive media for its exceptional handling, braking, and rally-bred performance. Frequently appeared on 'best performance car' lists and was a benchmark for its segment.

Ratings:

Highly rated by enthusiasts and critics for its driving dynamics and mechanical sophistication.