🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VII

Chassis Code:

CT9A

Engine Code:

4G63

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII (CT9A) is a legendary homologation special, a rally-bred performance sedan renowned for its advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system and potent turbocharged engine. It represents a peak in accessible, high-performance driving for enthusiasts.

Competitors:

Competed against performance icons such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, and various high-performance European sedans of its era.

Performance Enhancements:

Twin-scroll turbocharged 4G63 engine, advanced Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Super Active Yaw Control (S-AYC), helical gear limited-slip front differential, recirculating ball steering, robust chassis for rally competition.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Repair

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily Japan, Europe, North America)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Differentials (Front, Center, Rear)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, EBD), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses & Relays, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Body Sealing

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Replacement

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures, Sensor Signal Analysis

Technical Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities & Types, Electrical Schematics, Component Dimensions, Performance Data

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, Printable Pages, High Resolution Images and Diagrams

Quality:

High-quality reproduction of original manufacturer documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled

Displacement:

1997 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

276 bhp @ 6500 rpm (Japanese Spec), often higher in other markets due to less restrictive regulations

Torque:

343 Nm (253 lb-ft) @ 3000 rpm (Japanese Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (98 RON / 93+ AKI)

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant)

Oil Type:

Fully Synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (check specific market recommendations)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK PFR7B or equivalent (iridium or platinum recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (for most performance variants)

Type:

4-speed INVECS-II Sportronic Automatic Transmission (available on some models)

All Wheel Drive:

Mitsubishi All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC/S-AYC)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil 75W-90 GL-5 or equivalent

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

DiaQueen SP III or equivalent ATF

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4435 mm (174.6 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1450 kg (3086-3197 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this model year in the same way as later vehicles, but designed with significant structural integrity for performance and safety.

Braking:

Front: Ventilated Discs (e.g., Brembo 320mm), Rear: Ventilated Discs (e.g., Brembo 300mm); ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Traction Control:

Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC/S-AYC), All-Wheel Control (AWC)

Airbags:

Driver, Front Passenger Airbags; optional side airbags depending on market and trim.

Body Structure:

Reinforced body structure with strategically placed high-strength steel for torsional rigidity and crash energy management.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio with CD player, often with Rockford Fosgate premium audio option in higher trims. Basic digital displays for climate control and information.

Electronic Aids:

Advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system encompassing ACD and AYC/S-AYC for dynamic torque distribution and enhanced handling. ABS and EBD are standard.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era. Primarily focused on audio input (CD player) and basic vehicle diagnostics.

Gauges:

Comprehensive gauge cluster including boost gauge, oil pressure, oil temperature, and voltmeter (depending on market and trim).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Aggressive driving may require more frequent changes.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000-70,000 miles or 5-7 years, crucial for the 4G63 engine's integrity.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific blend).

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II/III ATF or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid.

Engine Reliability:

The 4G63 is generally robust, but can be prone to ringland failure under extreme tuning or detonation. Regular maintenance, proper fueling, and avoiding aggressive revving when cold are critical. Timing belt integrity is paramount.

Acd Pump:

The ACD pump can be a point of failure, requiring fluid changes and potential replacement.

Suspension Wear:

Performance-oriented suspension can experience faster wear on bushings and ball joints compared to standard vehicles.

Rust:

Common on older vehicles, especially in areas with road salt. Check wheel arches, sills, and subframes.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a rich history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution series being its flagship rally homologation model.

Evolution Series:

The Evo VII (CT9A) marked a significant evolution from the Evo VI, featuring a longer wheelbase, revised suspension geometry, and the introduction of the electronic Active Center Differential (ACD) and advanced AYC/S-AYC systems, enhancing its on-road and rally performance.

Production Years:

2001-2003

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Notable Variants:

GSR, RS, RS-MR Edition (with special lightweight Recaro seats and specific chassis tuning).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

The Evo VII lineage is built on a foundation of rally success, although the specific chassis might have had less direct WRC competition than predecessors and successors due to homologation rules at the time. However, it was a dominant force in many national and international rally championships.

Enthusiast Acclaim:

Widely regarded as one of the most desirable and capable performance sedans of its generation, praised for its raw driving experience, mechanical grip, and tuning potential.

Iso Certification:

N/A (Vehicle Specific)