🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer

Generation Code:

CJ

Model Years Covered:

2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Sedan/Hatchback

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their Mitsubishi Lancer.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the essential technical data and procedures to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ effectively, saving time and money.

Vehicle Strengths Cj Era:

Known for its sporty handling, available all-wheel drive (AWC) in higher trims (e.g., Lancer Ralliart, Evolution X), and a range of efficient to performance-oriented engines. The Evolution models represent the pinnacle of performance in this generation.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage for all gasoline engine variants including 4G1 series (e.g., 4G15, 4G19) and 4B1 series (e.g., 4B10, 4B11, 4B12) depending on market. Includes engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, and starting/charging systems.

Transmission:

Detailed information for both manual (e.g., KM132, KM220) and automatic transmissions (e.g., INVECS-III F4A42, W1C1). Includes operation, diagnosis, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Coverage of front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, axles, driveshafts, and transfer cases where applicable.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, multi-link setups, springs, dampers, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering gear, steering column, and associated components. Includes diagnosis and adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear braking systems, including disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and ASC/TCL (Active Stability Control/Traction Control Logic).

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, fuses, relays, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, central locking, and body control modules.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system including the refrigerant circuit, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, controls, and diagnosis.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, and body repair procedures. Includes corrosion protection.

Restraints:

Airbag system, seat belts, and associated sensors and control modules.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, and air filter replacements.

Diagnosis:

Systematic troubleshooting procedures for common and uncommon faults, including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), pinpoint tests, and symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, and suspension work.

Adjustment:

Procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, parking brake, steering, and other critical components.

Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as headlamps, tail lamps, mirrors, sensors, actuators, ECUs, and body panels.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Essential torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and routine checks to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhauls, and complete electrical system troubleshooting and repair.

Diagnostic Capability:

Extensive diagnostic flowcharts, DTC definitions, and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed overhaul instructions for engines, transmissions, differentials, and major mechanical assemblies, including component specifications and tolerances.

Schematics:

Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference.

Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Print Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Common engines include the 2.0L 4G15/4B10 (MIVEC), 2.4L 4B12 (MIVEC), and the turbocharged 2.0L 4B11T for Ralliart and Evolution models. Specific engine availability varies by market and trim.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 150 hp for base 2.0L engines to over 290 hp for turbocharged variants (e.g., Ralliart) and 291 hp for the Evolution GSR/MR.

Torque Range:

Approximately 140-150 lb-ft for naturally aspirated engines, up to 300 lb-ft for turbocharged models.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection or direct injection for some variants. Features include O2 sensors, Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, and throttle position sensor (TPS).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline. Premium unleaded recommended or required for turbocharged models.

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with diagnostic capabilities (OBD-II).

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system (depending on engine), and MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission (e.g., KM132, KM220) depending on engine and trim.

Optional Transmission Type:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 6-speed automatic transmission (e.g., INVECS-III F4A42, W1C1) with paddle shifters on some sportier models. Dual-clutch Sportronic transmission (TC-SST) on Ralliart and Evolution models.

Awc System:

Advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system available on performance models, featuring modes like Tarmac, Gravel, and Snow for optimized traction and handling.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 synthetic gear oil. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacities.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diamond ATF SP-III or equivalent fluid for INVECS-III transmissions. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by body style (sedan/hatchback) and trim, typically around 4500-4600 mm.

Width:

Approximately 1760-1800 mm.

Height:

Around 1430-1450 mm.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2635 mm.

Wheelbase Evolution:

Similar to standard Lancer, but potentially with wider track widths.

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 1300 kg to 1500+ kg depending on engine, transmission, and AWD.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult vehicle's VIN plate or manual for specific GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Generally performed well in NHTSA crash tests for its era, with 4 or 5-star ratings in frontal and side impacts for many configurations. Specific ratings vary by model year and configuration.

IIHS Ratings:

Good ratings in IIHS frontal offset and side impact tests for many models. Some may have 'Acceptable' or 'Marginal' ratings in specific tests depending on year and equipment.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control Logic (TCL), Active Stability Control (ASC)/Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), pretensioner seatbelts, LATCH child seat anchors, and impact-absorbing steering column.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced impact-absorbing body structure with front and rear crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Available touchscreen infotainment systems with AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 playback, and optional navigation. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was available on higher trims.

Audio Options:

Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system was an optional upgrade on select models, offering enhanced sound quality.

Key Driver Assistance:

ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Stability Control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were generally not standard or widely available on this generation Lancer.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming. USB ports for device charging and media playback were introduced in later model years. Keyless entry and push-button start were available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Severe driving conditions may require shorter intervals. Always refer to the owner's manual.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Turbocharged models may have different intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs typically last around 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Platinum plugs may have shorter intervals. Consult specific engine requirements.

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

Typically SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications. Check owner's manual for exact viscosity and API service category for your specific engine.

Coolant Type:

Long-life ethylene glycol coolant (typically pink or red) meeting Mitsubishi specifications. Do not mix coolant types.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 automotive brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific hydraulic fluid or ATF as per manual for hydraulic systems; electric power steering requires no fluid maintenance.

Common Problems:

Potential issues include minor electrical gremlins (e.g., door lock actuators, window motors), occasional HVAC blower motor failures, premature wear on certain suspension bushings, and clutch wear on manual transmission models under hard use. Turbocharged models might experience issues related to the turbocharger or intercooler if not maintained properly. Some owners report minor interior trim rattles.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Regularly check fluid levels, inspect brake pads and rotors, listen for suspension noises, and ensure timely replacement of filters and fluids to mitigate potential issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing diverse vehicles, including performance icons like the Lancer Evolution.

Lancer Lineage:

The Lancer, first introduced in 1973, has evolved through multiple generations, transitioning from a subcompact to a compact car. The CJ generation (2007-2017) is the tenth generation of the Lancer.

Cj Generation Launch:

The tenth-generation Lancer (CJ/CY/CZ chassis codes) debuted in 2007, featuring a more aggressive styling and a significantly revised platform. The Evolution X variant was a flagship performance model.

Production Period:

The specific CJ generation models covered by this manual were produced from 2008 through 2013.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with assembly also taking place in other global locations depending on the market (e.g., North America, Australia).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Recognition:

The Lancer Evolution models, in particular, are highly regarded in the automotive community and motorsports for their performance and rally heritage, often appearing on 'best sports car' or 'best performance car' lists.

Safety Awards:

Specific safety awards would vary by year and market, but the Lancer typically achieved respectable safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting its robust safety construction.