🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

FTO

Body Style:

2-Door Coupe

Production Period For Relevant Models:

1994-2000

Engine Code:

6A12

Manual Transmission Code:

F5M42

Automatic Transmission Code:

F5A42

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Sport Compact / Personal Luxury Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking spirited driving performance and distinctive styling.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Celica GT-Four, Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mazda RX-7 (FD3S), Subaru SVX, Honda Prelude.

Design:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, often compared to a mini-Ferrari 355. Available in various trim levels, including the high-performance 'GPX' model.

Powertrain Options:

Focus on V6 engine performance and the availability of both manual and automatic transmissions.

Value For Owner:

Essential resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the critical 6A12 V6 engine and its associated transmissions, enabling owners to keep their FTO in optimal condition and potentially save on dealership service costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Engine (6A12), Manual Transmission (F5M42), Automatic Transmission (F5A42), Clutch Systems

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 800+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), Engine lubrication, Engine cooling, Fuel system (injection, pump, injectors), Ignition system, Emission control systems, Intake and Exhaust systems, Engine electrical, Starting and Charging systems, Engine diagnostics and troubleshooting

Transmission Systems:

Manual Transmission (F5M42): internal components, gear selection, synchronizers, shifting mechanisms, seals, and bearings. Automatic Transmission (F5A42): torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control systems, valve body, solenoids, clutch packs, transmission fluid cooler, seals. Clutch System: clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch master cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, hydraulic lines, and pedal assembly.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft bearing replacement, timing belt/chain service, fuel injector testing/replacement, spark plug replacement, ignition coil testing/replacement, cooling system flush and refill, water pump replacement, oil pump inspection, transmission removal/installation, clutch replacement, transmission internal component repair, torque converter replacement, valve body service, transmission fluid and filter change.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance checks, oil and filter changes, coolant checks, spark plug gap adjustment, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, transmission fluid level checks and changes, brake fluid checks, power steering fluid checks.

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Diagnostic charts for engine performance issues (misfires, rough idle, lack of power), fuel delivery problems, ignition system faults, transmission shifting problems, clutch slippage or engagement issues. Fault code interpretation (OBD-II if applicable to specific sub-models/years).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and fluid changes to detailed component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams (potentially). Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text-based PDF for easy keyword navigation.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-hand reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

6A12

Configuration:

60-degree V6, DOHC, 24 Valves

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

74.3 mm x 77.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 170-200 PS (125-147 kW) depending on variant (e.g., 170 PS for standard, 200 PS for GPX with MIVEC on some later models)

Torque:

Approx. 187-190 Nm (138-140 lb-ft) depending on variant

Induction:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)

Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributorless ignition system - DIS, coil-on-plug in some later versions)

Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change (refer to manual for precise capacity)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities (OBD-II port present on later models).

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

F5M42 (5-speed manual)

Automatic Transmission:

F5A42 (4-speed INVECS-II electronically controlled automatic transmission)

Clutch Type Manual:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transmission Fluid - MTF) (Verify specific recommendation in manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

DIA QUEEN ATF SP-III or equivalent (Automatic Transmission Fluid) (Verify specific recommendation in manual)

Torque Converter Automatic:

Lock-up torque converter for improved efficiency at cruising speeds.

All Wheel Drive:

Not typically equipped with AWD on models covered by this manual. Primarily FWD.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,425 mm (174.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,740 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,315 mm (51.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,350 - 1,450 kg (2976 - 3197 lbs) depending on trim and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle compliance plate or manual.

Trunk Volume:

Limited due to coupe design, precise figures vary but generally sufficient for daily needs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official independent crash test data for the FTO in major global markets as it was primarily a Japanese domestic market (JDM) vehicle. Owners should consult their specific regional safety regulations for comparable vehicles.

ABS:

Available on higher trim levels (e.g., GPX).

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trim levels.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or standard on later models/higher trims.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often with an integrated amplifier. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems were available depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-II compliant port (typically located under the dashboard) on models from around 1996 onwards for engine diagnostics.

Mivec:

Variable Valve Timing system on the 6A12 MIVEC engine (found in later GPX models) for improved performance across the rev range.

Invecs Ii:

INVECS-II (Intelligent and Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) on the F5A42 automatic transmission, offering adaptive shift logic and manual mode capabilities on some versions.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (Refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).

Engine Coolant Change:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 80,000 - 100,000 km (50,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5-7 years (Critical replacement; failure can cause severe engine damage). Refer to specific manual for exact interval.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 km (35,000 - 60,000 miles) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (Refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Green or Pink/Red color, typically MITSUBISHI SUPER LONG LIFE COOLANT or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

MITSUBISHI PSF or Dexron II/III ATF (Verify specific type in manual).

Engine Wear:

Potential for piston ring wear or oil consumption in high-mileage engines, common in many naturally aspirated V6s of this era. MIVEC system can be sensitive to oil quality and maintenance.

Transmission Reliability:

F5M42 manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is a consumable. F5A42 automatic transmissions can develop issues with valve body solenoids or clutch packs if not properly maintained with fluid changes.

Electrical Components:

Age-related issues with wiring harnesses, sensors, and the ECU can occur, as with any vehicle of this vintage.

Suspension And Brakes:

Wear on bushings, ball joints, and brake components is typical for a performance-oriented coupe of this age. Regular inspection and replacement are necessary.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a history of performance vehicles and rally heritage, exemplified by models like the Lancer Evolution. The FTO was an attempt to capture the sporty coupe market.

Development Context:

Developed in the early 1990s as a front-wheel-drive sports coupe, designed to compete in a segment that was popular at the time. It was known for its advanced technology and styling for its era.

Facelifts And Updates:

Received a minor facelift in 1997, featuring revised styling and the introduction of MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) on the 2.0L V6 engine for the GPX model, increasing its power output and responsiveness.

Production Years:

1994-2000

Primary Market:

Japan Domestic Market (JDM). Limited RHD exports to other countries like the UK.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific major awards might be limited, the FTO was generally well-received by automotive press in Japan for its styling, handling, and spirited performance within its class.

Industry Design Awards:

Praised for its aerodynamic and aggressive styling, often cited as one of the more attractive Japanese sports coupes of its era.