Model Generations Covered:
Seventh Generation (CS/CT)
Model Years Covered:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Chassis Codes:
CS2A, CS5A, CS6A, CS7A, CS9A, CT9A (Evolution variants)
Platform:
Mitsubishi Global Small Platform (GS)
Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Lancer (CS/CT generation) was positioned as a compact sedan and hatchback offering a blend of affordability, reliability, and a surprisingly sporty feel, especially in its higher trim levels and performance variants like the Evolution.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza, and Nissan Sentra.
Design Philosophy:
Known for its aerodynamic styling, practical interior, and the availability of capable all-wheel-drive and turbocharged powertrains in the Evolution models.
Availability:
Offered in sedan and sportback (hatchback) body styles.
Service Scope:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostics
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North American and European specifications where applicable)
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive digital manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual (WSM)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control (ECU/ECM)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed, 6-speed for Evolution), Automatic transmission (4-speed INVECS-II), clutch system, driveline (FWD, AWD for Evolution)
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering (power-assisted rack and pinion), brakes (front disc, rear disc/drum, ABS, EBD), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, wipers, HVAC controls, audio system, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, seals, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement, brake service, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, transmission issues, braking system anomalies, using diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II)
Repair:
Engine component removal/installation (head gasket, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repair, including full component disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and specific Mitsubishi diagnostic equipment
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems
Engine Codes Common:
4G15, 4G63, 4G64, 4G69 (non-turbo), 4G63T (turbocharged for Evolution)
Displacement Common:
1.5L, 1.6L, 2.0L, 2.4L
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 100 hp to over 280 hp (for Lancer Evolution IX)
Torque Range:
Approximately 100 lb-ft to over 280 lb-ft (for Lancer Evolution IX)
Induction Type:
Naturally aspirated (MPI - Multi-Point Injection), Turbocharged (Intercooled)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium unleaded recommended/required for turbocharged models)
Cylinder Head:
SOHC or DOHC, 16-valve (depending on engine)
Timing Drive:
Timing belt or timing chain (depending on engine)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission (most models)
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-II Sport Mode) (most models), 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission (Lancer Evolution models)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC) for Evolution models
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for specific viscosities)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type)
Length:
Varies by body style, approx. 177.4 - 178.5 inches (sedan)
Width:
Varies by body style, approx. 66.7 - 68.9 inches
Height:
Varies by body style, approx. 55.1 - 58.1 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.4 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2600 - 3100 lbs (depending on trim and drivetrain)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Good (for models tested during the generation)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Acceptable or Good (for models tested during the generation)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Optional/Standard on higher trims, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard, optional side curtain airbags on some models
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type; consult manual)
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (depending on plug type; Iridium recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
60,000 to 90,000 miles (critical for interference engines; consult manual)
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or newer. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-20 (refer to manual for exact specifications per engine/climate).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-9764) or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, orange/pink color)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid or specific Mitsubishi P/N (consult manual)
Engine:
Occasional oil consumption in some naturally aspirated engines, potential for head gasket issues on high-mileage examples, turbocharger wear on Evolution models.
Transmission:
Clutch wear in manual transmissions, potential for automatic transmission solenoid issues, AWD system maintenance (ACD/AYC fluid changes on Evo models).
Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common wear items.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power mirror issues, occasional ABS sensor faults.
Body Interior:
Rust can be a concern on older models, especially in areas with road salt; interior trim creaks.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer.
Generation Start Year:
2000
Generation End Year:
2007
Facelifts:
Received minor styling updates and feature enhancements during its lifecycle, notably around 2003/2004.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Mizushima Plant, Okazaki Plant), with some assembly occurring in other global locations.
