🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer

Generation Codes:

CE, CG

Chassis Codes:

CE (1995-2000), CG (2000-2007) - Note: This manual likely covers the latter part of the CE and the entirety of the CG generation, which are closely related.

Vin Decoder Information:

Manual may include information to decode VIN for specific features or build details relevant to repair.

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Lancer CE/CG represented a significant step for Mitsubishi in the compact sedan segment, aiming to offer a blend of affordability, reliability, and sporty styling. It competed directly with established models from Toyota (Corolla), Honda (Civic), and Nissan (Sentra/Sunny).

Competitive Analysis:

The CE/CG Lancer was known for its relatively robust mechanicals and distinctive styling, especially in sportier trims. While perhaps not as refined as some Japanese rivals in certain areas, it offered good value and a solid driving experience, particularly with the availability of performance-oriented variants like the Lancer Evolution precursors (though this manual likely focuses on standard models).

Key Features:

This manual is the definitive resource for maintaining and repairing these vehicles. Its 'most comprehensive' claim suggests it includes detailed factory-level information, which is crucial for accurate diagnostics and repairs. The inclusion of step-by-step instructions and exploded views is paramount for ease of use.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

While not explicitly stated, the manual will likely reference specific Mitsubishi diagnostic tools or generic OBD-II scanners for fault code retrieval and live data monitoring.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full service, maintenance, and repair for Mitsubishi Lancer CE and CG generations.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this scope).

Manual Type:

Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital (PDF) given the description, but could also be available in printed form.

Searchability:

If PDF, likely possesses text-searchable capabilities for quickly finding specific topics or components.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), Engine Control System (ECU, sensors, actuators), Fuel System (injection, pump, lines), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Air Intake System, Starting System, Charging System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (axles, CV joints), Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Body Electrical (lighting, wipers, power accessories), Climate Control System (HVAC), Safety Systems (SRS airbags, seatbelts), Body and Chassis, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting.

Body And Chassis:

Includes procedures for body panel alignment, door and latch repair, window regulator service, interior trim removal, rust prevention and repair, and chassis component alignment.

Climate Control:

Covers HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, AC compressor, refrigerant system, and control panel diagnostics.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, detailed diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul instructions, electrical wiring diagrams, exploded views for assembly/disassembly, specifications and tolerances, tightening sequences and torque values, troubleshooting guides for common problems.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical faults, component testing procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, ECU, sensors), and fuse/relay identification.

Suspension Repair:

Detailed instructions for replacing struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings, along with wheel alignment specifications.

Brake System Overhaul:

Includes procedures for rebuilding brake calipers, replacing master cylinders, and bleeding the brake system.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (bearings, rings, valves), cylinder head resurfacing, piston ring installation, and engine reassembly with correct torque specifications.

Electrical Wiring Diagrams:

Includes complete, high-quality wiring diagrams for engine, transmission, chassis, body, and accessories, color-coded for clarity.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Extensive troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-to-cause index, and diagnostic trees for a wide range of common and uncommon vehicle issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (likely searchable and printable).

Print Quality:

High-resolution graphics, clear text, and detailed diagrams for easy understanding.

Binding Type:

N/A (assuming digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (assuming digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

Common engine codes for CE/CG Lancer include 4G13 (1.3L), 4G15 (1.5L), 4G91 (1.5L), 4G92 (1.6L MIVEC), 4G93 (1.8L GDI/SOHC/DOHC), and 4G63 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC - notably the basis for Evolution engines). Manual will specify which of these are covered.

Engine Displacement Range:

1.3L (1300cc) to 2.4L (2350cc - potentially for some variants or related models, but typically 1.3L-2.0L for standard Lancer CE/CG).

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder (SOHC and DOHC variants).

Horsepower Range:

Typically ranging from 75-130 hp for standard naturally aspirated engines, with performance variants potentially exceeding 200 hp (for non-turbo models covered by standard manuals).

Torque Range:

Approx. 110 Nm (1.3L) to 180 Nm (2.0L DOHC), depending on engine. Manual provides exact specifications per engine variant.

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for most models, with some earlier or specific markets possibly having carbureted variants.

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric fuel pump.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission.

Transmission Features:

The manual will cover diagnosis, fluid changes, clutch replacement (manual), and valve body/torque converter service (automatic).

Gear Ratios:

Manual will include specific gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions for each applicable engine variant, crucial for performance and diagnostics.

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring type for manual transmissions. Manual covers clutch assembly removal and installation.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4350-4400 mm (Varies slightly by generation and body style - sedan/coupe).

Width:

Approximately 1700-1730 mm.

Height:

Approximately 1390-1430 mm.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2500 mm.

Curb Weight:

Typically 1050-1250 kg, depending on engine and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Will be specified in manual, typically around 1600-1800 kg.

Passenger Volume:

Details will be in the manual, typically around 90-95 cubic feet for a compact sedan.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Varies by market and testing agency (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP). Generally, models from this era had basic safety structures. Manual will detail SRS airbag system inspection and replacement procedures.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an option or standard on higher trims. Manual will cover ABS component testing and diagnosis.

Steering System Type:

Power assisted rack and pinion. Manual covers system diagnosis, fluid leaks, and component replacement.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones. Manual details SRS system components and replacement.

Seatbelt Types:

Front and rear three-point seatbelts, with pretensioners and force limiters for front occupants. Manual details adjustment and replacement.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models typically featured basic AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims might have offered upgraded sound systems. Manual will cover electrical schematics for the audio system and accessory installation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by the era. Cruise control was available on some models. Key driver assistance would be ABS.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity typically found in these models. Manual will focus on core vehicle electronics.

🔧 Maintenance

Scheduled Maintenance:

The manual will provide detailed schedules for oil changes (e.g., 7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plugs, timing belt/chain replacement (critical for interference engines like the 4G63), coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and transmission fluid changes. Example: Timing belt replacement typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years.

Brake System Service:

Includes recommendations for brake pad and rotor inspection/replacement, brake caliper servicing, and brake fluid flush at specified intervals (e.g., every 2 years or 30,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

Typically API SG/SH or higher, viscosity grades like 10W-30 or 5W-30 depending on climate. Manual will specify exact type and capacity (e.g., 4.0-4.5 liters for most 4-cylinder engines).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify capacity (e.g., 6.0-7.0 liters) and type (e.g., Mitsubishi Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant).

Transmission Fluid:

Manual: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Automatic: ATF SP-II or SP-III. Manual will specify capacity (e.g., 2.0-2.5 liters for manual, 5.5-6.5 liters for automatic torque converter refill).

Power Steering Fluid:

Typically ATF Dexron II/III equivalent. Manual will specify type and capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify exact type and capacity (e.g., 1.0 liter).

Air Conditioning Refrigerant:

R-134a. Manual will specify charge capacity and procedures for system evacuation and recharging.

Differential Oil:

Not applicable for FWD models, but if AWD variants are covered, it will specify differential fluid type and capacity.

Common Issues Coverage:

The manual will likely address common issues such as engine oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), premature clutch wear, catalytic converter failure, and potential transmission issues in high-mileage automatics. It will provide diagnostic steps for these.

Ignition System Faults:

Covers ignition coil diagnostics, spark plug performance checks, and distributorless ignition system (DIS) troubleshooting where applicable.

Fuel System Problems:

Covers fuel pump testing, injector diagnostics, fuel filter replacement, and fuel pressure regulator checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with the Lancer nameplate being a cornerstone of their global strategy since the 1970s. The CE/CG generations were key to establishing the Lancer's reputation in competitive markets.

Model Evolution:

The CE (Fifth Generation) Lancer, introduced in 1995, marked a significant design shift towards more aerodynamic lines. The CG (Sixth Generation), launched in 2000, was an evolution of the CE platform, featuring updated styling and technology, often referred to as the 'global' Lancer platform.

Key Design Changes:

CE: Sharper lines, repositioned headlights. CG: Smoother, more rounded styling, revised front and rear fascias, updated interior.

Production Years:

CE: 1995-2000. CG: 2000-2007. Manual will cover repair procedures applicable throughout these periods.