Segment:
Mid-size station wagon (estate), positioned as a family vehicle with available performance variants.
Competitors:
Subaru Legacy Grand Wagon, Toyota Caldina, Nissan Avenir, Honda Accord Wagon, Mazda Atenza Wagon (later models).
Unique Selling Points:
Powerful V6 engine options, available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, spacious and practical wagon body, sporty styling.
Target Audience:
Families seeking a reliable, versatile, and potentially sporty wagon with excellent all-weather capability.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (F5M51, W5M51): disassembly, assembly, gear ratios, shift mechanism.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (V4A51, F4A51): internal components, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic control unit.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, 4WD system (including viscous coupling unit).
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link independent suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, linkages, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (including modulator, sensors), brake fluid, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant.
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, interior panels, airbags.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, tailgate, mirrors, glass, seals, paint codes.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system components, SRS module, seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.
Component Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive instructions for dismantling and reassembling major vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Specific tests for sensors, actuators, and control modules using multimeter, oscilloscope, and scan tools.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, component-level wiring schematics for all electrical systems.
Depth:
Complete factory-level detail for repair, overhaul, and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Basic hand tools, torque wrench, multimeter, oscilloscope, OBD-II scanner (for later models/specific functions).
Engine Code And Type 1:
4G63 (2.0L Inline-4 DOHC MPI), Non-turbo and Turbocharged (GT-A trim).
Engine Code And Type 2:
6A13 (2.5L V6 SOHC MPI), Non-turbo and Twin-Turbocharged (VR-4, GT-A trims).
2.0L Na Horsepower:
Approx. 135-145 PS (99-107 kW)
2.0L Turbo Horsepower:
Approx. 240-255 PS (177-188 kW)
2.5L V6 Na Horsepower:
Approx. 160-170 PS (118-125 kW)
2.5L V6 Twin-Turbo Horsepower:
Approx. 280 PS (206 kW) - JDM 'Gentleman's Agreement' rating.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Valvetrain:
DOHC (4G63), SOHC (6A13).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years for interference engines (4G63, 6A13). Crucial for engine longevity.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Manual: Check and replace if necessary during clutch service or at higher mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIAQUEEN ATF SP-III or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON (verify specific type).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, viscosity typically 75W-90.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, ball joints, wheel bearings, exhaust components, CV boots, mass airflow sensor (on some 4G63 models).
Engine Specific Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, potential turbocharger issues on performance models if not maintained, carbon buildup in intake ports.
Transmission Specific Issues:
Automatic transmission shifting issues (especially if fluid is neglected), clutch wear in manual transmissions.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in electrical connectors (especially ground points), aging wiring harnesses, issues with power window motors or central locking.