Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Strengths:
Reliability (generally), sporty handling (especially GT models), practicality, affordability
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, factory-accurate information for all maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair tasks, saving time and money
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (ECI), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Turbocharger (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (W5M42, KM220), Automatic Transmission (F4A42, F4A51), All-Wheel Drive System (4WD/AWC - optional), Drive Axles, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front McPherson Strut, Rear Multi-Link), Steering System (Power Steering), Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper & Washer System, HVAC System Controls, Power Windows, Power Locks, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Body Control Module (BCM), ECU Diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Level Checks & Replacements, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Special Procedures:
Timing Belt Replacement, Fuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement, Airbag System Service, ABS Bleeding, Wheel Alignment Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Options:
4G13 (1.3L SOHC I4), 4G15 (1.5L SOHC I4), 4G18 (1.6L SOHC I4), 4G94 (2.0L SOHC I4), 4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbo I4 - GT/GTS models), 6A12 (2.0L V6 MIVEC - not widely available in all markets for this generation, but worth noting potential regional variants)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 75-100 hp (1.3L-1.6L), 120-140 hp (2.0L SOHC), 270-280 hp (2.0L Turbocharged DOHC)
Torque Range:
Approx. 80-100 lb-ft (1.3L-1.6L), 130-140 lb-ft (2.0L SOHC), 250-260 lb-ft (2.0L Turbocharged DOHC)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified per market/engine)
ECM Type:
Proprietary Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (DIA-3) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
Awc System:
Optional Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) on higher performance models (e.g., Evo variants, though this manual is for standard Lancer)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for specific PN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SKT (J2) or ATF-SP III (refer to manual for specific PN)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)
Length:
Approx. 4480 mm (176.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1350 kg (2535-2976 lbs) depending on engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (refer to VIN plate)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 0.38 m³ (13.4 cu ft) (sedan), varies for hatchback
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (driver), 4-Star (passenger) for some configurations
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good depending on specific test year and equipment
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum or Disc Brakes. Optional ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCL) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags standard. Optional Side Airbags and Curtain Airbags on higher trims
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems on higher trims.
Navigation:
Rarely offered, if at all, on base models. Aftermarket or dealer-installed options may exist.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely offered from factory; aftermarket availability.
Auxiliary Input:
Not common on factory head units; aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, severe driving may require more frequent changes)
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with oil change. Example Part Number: MD342861
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles). Example Part Number: MR552956
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs, or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (refer to specific engine/plug type).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000-90,000 miles (100,000-150,000 km) or 5-7 years, whichever comes first, depending on engine (crucial for interference engines).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ/SL, ILSAC GF-2/GF-3. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (refer to manual for ambient temperature ranges).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 liters (4.2-4.8 US quarts) with filter change (varies by engine)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific requirement)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent (refer to manual for specific PN)
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure, oxygen sensor issues, catalytic converter degradation, minor electrical gremlins, transmission solenoid issues (automatic), rust on undercarriage/wheel arches, timing belt failure on 4G63/4G94 if not maintained.
Common Fixes:
Regular replacement of ignition coils and sensors, proper timing belt maintenance, rust prevention/treatment, regular transmission fluid service.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (Japan)
Generation Context:
This is the eighth generation (CJ/CK/CM/CN) of the Mitsubishi Lancer, introduced for the 2000 model year. It saw significant platform updates and design changes from its predecessor.
Assembly Locations:
Japan, and various international assembly plants (e.g., Australia, South Africa, Taiwan)
Production Period:
2000-2007 (for this specific generation)
Typical Reviews:
Often praised for value, reliability (for non-turbo models), and sporty driving dynamics, particularly in GT variants.
Consumer Reports:
Variable ratings depending on model year and specific engine. Generally average to good reliability scores for non-turbo models.
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards for respective model years and regions.
