Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu
Strengths For Era:
Distinctive styling, spacious interior, comfortable ride, powerful V6 engine option, good value proposition
Design Philosophy:
Sporty and stylish European-inspired design, reflecting Mitsubishi's global styling direction
Platform:
GS platform (shared with Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eterna)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, machining, timing belt, piston/ring, crankshaft/bearing, cylinder head, valve train, oil pump, oil cooler
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, internal components, shift mechanism, repair and overhaul
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, disassembly, torque converter, hydraulic control system, valve body, electronic control unit (ECU) interface, repair and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differentials, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drum depending on trim), ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, hydraulic lines, parking brake, caliper and rotor replacement
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rod ends, alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, mirrors, instrument cluster, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, glass, chassis components, rust prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate controls, cabin air filter
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components and diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step procedures for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all covered systems
Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, electrical component testing, sensor testing, actuator testing, use of diagnostic scan tools
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Length:
Approx. 189.1 inches (4803 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 60.2 inches (1529 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 60.0 inches (1524 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 100.5 cu ft (2845 L)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.5 cu ft (410 L)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3175 lbs (1440 kg) (4-cyl, manual)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3461 lbs (1570 kg) (V6, automatic)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Consult vehicle placard (typically around 4300-4500 lbs)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil). Synthetic oil may allow extended intervals (consult manual).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (4G64, 6G72). Check type specified in manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for the 4G64 engine (non-interference). The 6G72 V6 is also non-interference, but belt replacement at similar intervals is recommended. Consult manual for exact specification and to be certain of interference status.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 is commonly recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (green color), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual).
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt replacement is critical due to potential for severe engine damage if it breaks (verify interference status with manual).
Common Problem 2:
Automatic transmission issues (e.g., delayed shifting, slipping) can occur with age and mileage; regular fluid changes are vital.
Common Problem 3:
Power steering leaks or pump noise.
Common Problem 4:
CV joint wear, especially on front axles.
Common Problem 5:
Body rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Common Problem 6:
Window regulator failures.