Market Segment:
Compact/Compact Sport Sedan and Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Mazda3, Ford Focus
Vehicle Strengths:
Sporty handling (especially GTS and Ralliart), available All-Wheel Control (AWC) for Ralliart, strong performance from the Lancer Evolution variant, practical Sportback option
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for DIY repairs, professional servicing, and understanding vehicle systems, leading to cost savings and optimized vehicle performance.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, engine management (ECM), ignition, starting, charging systems
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (including INVECS-III), clutch, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, AWD system (for applicable models)
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system, power steering, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Electrical Electronic:
Battery, starter, alternator, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuse box layouts, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), body control module (BCM), audio system
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating, airbags, seat belts
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting trees, DTC interpretation
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable), electrical component repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, diagnostic test values
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and component-level repair
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using MUT-III (Mitsubishi Under Vehicle Information System) or equivalent OBD-II scanners for diagnostics
Engine Options 2008-2010:
2.0L 4G94, 2.4L 4B12, 2.0L 4B11T (Evolution)
Engine Code 2.0L Non Turbo:
4G94 (early 2008 models, less common in later years)
Engine Code 2.4L Mivec:
4B12
Engine Code 2.0L Turbo Mivec:
4B11T (Lancer Evolution)
2.0L 4G94 Power:
Approx. 120-130 hp
2.4L 4B12 Power:
Approx. 168-170 hp
2.0L 4B11T Power:
Approx. 291 hp (GSR) / 295 hp (MR) for Evolution X
2.4L 4B12 Torque:
Approx. 162 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (4G94, 4B12), 91 Octane or higher (4B11T)
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with OBD-II diagnostics
Transmission Options:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed INVECS-III Sport Mode Automatic (non-turbo models)
Transmission Options High Performance:
6-speed Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) for Evolution MR and Ralliart
Automatic Transmission Features:
INVECS-III with intelligent shifting patterns and manual override
All Wheel Drive System:
All-Wheel Control (AWC) system on Ralliart and Evolution models with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Super AYC (Active Yaw Control) on Evolution
Length:
Approx. 176.0 - 180.0 inches (depending on model/trim)
Width:
Approx. 69.4 inches
Height:
Approx. 58.3 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.5 inches
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.5 cu ft
Cargo Volume Sportback:
Approx. 11.6 cu ft (rear seats up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,900 - 3,400 lbs (depending on model/engine/drivetrain)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (2008-2010 models, typical)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (2008-2010 models, typical)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC/ASC - Active Stability Control)
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags, front side impact airbags, side curtain airbags (standard on most trims), active front head restraints, pretensioner seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment Options:
Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system (optional on higher trims), touchscreen navigation systems, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rain-sensing wipers (optional), automatic climate control, keyless entry and ignition.
Connectivity Features:
USB input for audio, auxiliary audio jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum/Iridium plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles. Manual specifies exact type and interval.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: 60,000-100,000 miles. Varies by fluid type and usage. Clutch SST fluid changes are critical and more frequent.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or higher. 0W-20 or 5W-30 recommended for 4B12. Capacity approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts. Manual provides exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (pink/red color). Capacity approx. 6.0-7.0 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap/reservoir for specific requirement).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; often specific Mitsubishi fluid or ATF Dexron III compatible.
Common Wear Items:
Front control arm bushings, rear sway bar links, O2 sensors, spark plugs, brake pads/rotors.
Transmission Specifics:
SST transmission in Ralliart/Evo MR can be sensitive to fluid quality and maintenance. Some reports of AC compressor issues.
Engine Specifics:
4B12 can be prone to oil consumption if not maintained. Timing chain is used, generally reliable. 4B11T requires diligent maintenance.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a long history in motorsports and innovation.
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer is a global compact car that has been produced since 1973. The 2008-2010 models represent the ninth generation (CY/CZ), a significant redesign with a more aggressive styling and platform shared with the Outlander SUV.
Introduction Of Evolution Variant:
The Lancer Evolution, a high-performance variant derived from rallying, achieved legendary status and was available in this generation as the Evolution X.
Production Locations:
Primarily Japan, but also assembled in other global markets.
