Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, including disassembly, assembly, torque specifications, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing components.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor and actuator functions, OBD-II troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Complete service and repair procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch system, gear selection, internal components, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Automatic:
Comprehensive coverage of automatic transmissions, including hydraulic control systems, torque converter, gear sets, valve body, solenoids, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics, fluid types, and service procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, CV joints, differential (if applicable), rear-wheel drive (RWD) axle (if applicable) service, prop shafts, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including disc brake components (pads, rotors, calipers), drum brake components (if applicable), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, slave cylinders), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics, parking brake system.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, alignment procedures, and specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment, and troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
12-volt electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass replacement, seals, weatherstripping, paint codes, rust prevention and repair.
Body Interior:
Instrument panel, dashboard, seats, upholstery, interior trim panels, carpeting, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) components, and seat belt systems.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-drier), refrigerant types, charging procedures, heater core, blower motor, climate control system diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) components, operation, and diagnostic procedures, seatbelt pretensioners.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), tire rotation, brake inspection, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for the removal, installation, adjustment, and repair of all major and minor vehicle components.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic scan tools, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and performing component tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in electrical troubleshooting and repair.
Depth:
Factory-level, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
NHTSA Rating Front Impact:
Generally received good ratings in front-impact crash tests (e.g., 4-star or 5-star depending on specific year and test methodology).
IIHS Rating Small Overlap Front:
Early models (pre-facelift 2008-2009) may have had varying performance in this test. Later models and facelifted versions generally improved.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.
Electronic Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Active Stability Control (ASC) was available and standard on many trims, particularly in later production years.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often paired with ESC.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags were available, with standard front airbags and optional side/curtain airbags depending on trim and year.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months under severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months under normal conditions. Consult manual for specific details.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (standard vs. iridium). Iridium plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type Common:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified. Consult specific engine variant in manual.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Dia Queen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Automatic Cvt:
Specific Mitsubishi CVT Fluid (e.g., Dia Queen CVT Fluid J1 or J4) or equivalent. Crucial to use the correct fluid.
Common Complaints Early Models:
Occasional reports of CVT issues (e.g., hesitation, shuddering) if not properly maintained. Minor electrical gremlins, potential for suspension component wear in higher mileage vehicles. Catalytic converter issues can occur with misfires or oil consumption.
Engine Specific Notes:
MIVEC engines are generally reliable but require timely oil changes to prevent wear. The 2.0L (4B11) is robust for its class.