🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VII (Evo 7)

Model Code:

CT9A

Year:

2001-2003

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII (Evo 7) represented a significant evolution in the rally-bred sedan segment, solidifying its reputation as a potent performance machine. It was positioned as a high-performance, all-wheel-drive sports sedan focused on agility, driver engagement, and motorsport heritage.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with other iconic performance sedans of its era, such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, and various high-performance European models. Its advanced four-wheel-drive and differential systems often gave it an edge in traction and handling.

Key Features:

Iconic turbocharged 4G63 engine, advanced Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC) / Super AYC, aggressive aerodynamic styling, robust chassis, homologation special for WRC.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete factory service and repair coverage for all systems and components.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, implies comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (implied by product description context)

Format:

PDF Download

Searchable Text:

PDF format typically allows for searchable text, enabling quick access to specific topics and procedures.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, drivetrain (including AYC, ACD, Super AYC), transmission (manual & automatic variants), braking system (ABS, EBD), suspension system (front & rear), steering system, chassis, body electrical, HVAC, interior, exterior, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component removal and installation, adjustments, repair procedures, technical specifications, torque values, schematics, wiring diagrams, exploded views, system overviews.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnostics.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Covers standard OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and manufacturer-specific codes related to engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, AYC/ACD systems.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Includes comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, allowing for precise diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.

Bodywork Repair:

Covers panel replacement, alignment, rust repair, seal replacement, and repair of exterior trim.

Interior Trim Removal:

Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling interior panels, seats, dashboard components, and trim pieces.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable, allowing users to generate physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Content Type:

Diagnostic codes, wiring diagrams, repair procedures, specifications, component identification, maintenance schedules.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged (4G63T)

Horsepower:

Approximately 280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) at 6500 rpm (Japanese domestic market; export markets may vary due to regulations).

Torque:

Approximately 373 Nm (275 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (Japanese domestic market; export markets may vary).

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Fuel Control System (ECFI).

Turbocharger:

Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G turbocharger with water-cooled center housing and twin-scroll design.

Engine Control Unit:

Electronic engine control unit (ECU) with integrated AYC/ACD control.

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug (COP) ignition for each cylinder.

Engine Code:

4G63T (with various internal revisions).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 compatible. Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Check manual for specific temperature ranges.

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (Type RS, GSR models).

Optional Transmission:

5-speed INVECS-II Sport Mode Automatic Transmission (available on some GSR models).

Differentials:

Front: Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD). Rear: Active Yaw Control (AYC) or Super Active Yaw Control (Super AYC) controlling torque distribution to rear wheels, or mechanical LSD on some variants. Center: Active Center Differential (ACD) with manual lock settings (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow) and automatic mode.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent.

Manual Gear Ratios Typical:

1st: 2.750, 2nd: 1.850, 3rd: 1.308, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.770, Reverse: 2.533, Final Drive: 4.058 (Note: Ratios may vary slightly between specific trims like RS and GSR).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,430 mm (174.4 in)

Width:

1,770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1,445 mm (56.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2,625 mm (103.3 in)

Track Width Front:

1,500 mm (59.1 in)

Track Width Rear:

1,495 mm (58.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,400-1,460 kg (3,086-3,219 lbs) depending on trim and options.

Seating Capacity:

5

Cargo Volume:

Not specified, but typically moderate for a compact sports sedan.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Specific official crash test ratings for this generation in all markets are not widely published, but the chassis was designed with rally homologation standards in mind, emphasizing structural integrity.

Active Safety Features:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners, reinforced body structure.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated discs, often Brembo 4-piston calipers on performance variants (GSR).

Rear Brakes:

Solid discs, often Brembo 2-piston calipers on performance variants (GSR).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

17 inches

Standard Tire Size:

235/45R17

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory units typically included AM/FM radio with CD player, and optional navigation systems. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, EBD, ACD, AYC/Super AYC. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were standard.

Connectivity:

Basic factory radio with CD player. Bluetooth or USB connectivity not standard on factory systems; typically added via aftermarket head units.

Instrument Cluster:

Features a comprehensive instrument cluster with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and various warning lights, including specific indicators for AYC/ACD status.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions). Consult manual for normal conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,500 miles) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for iridium/platinum. Consult manual for specific type and interval.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 km (56,000 miles) or 6 years, whichever comes first. Critical component replacement.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US qt).

Transfer Case Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Rear Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. For Super AYC models, specific ACD fluid is required for the center differential and AYC unit; consult manual for correct type.

Known Issues:

Potential for turbocharger wear, ringland failure in heavily modified engines, AYC/ACD pump failure, clutch wear (especially with aggressive driving), ignition coil failure, catalytic converter failure, differential noise.

Wheel Lug Nut Torque:

103 Nm (76 lb-ft).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi's rich history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with multiple driver and manufacturer titles, heavily influenced the development and iconic status of the Lancer Evolution series.

Model Evolution:

The Evolution VII was the first model of the Lancer Evolution to move away from the previous Lancer platform it was based on. It utilized the platform of the seventh-generation Mitsubishi Lancer (CS chassis) and introduced significant chassis upgrades, including a stiffer body structure and a longer wheelbase, enhancing its handling and stability. It also saw advancements in its AYC and ACD systems.

Chassis Enhancements:

The Evo VII featured a significantly revised chassis compared to the Evo VI. It incorporated a wider track, revised suspension geometry, and increased body rigidity through spot welding and reinforcements, leading to improved handling and stability.

Production Years:

2001-2003

Manufacturing Plant:

Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognitions:

While specific awards for the Evo VII may not be as widely publicized as its predecessors or successors, it was consistently praised by automotive media for its exceptional performance, handling, and driver engagement. It is widely considered a benchmark for performance sedans of its era and a highly desirable enthusiast car.