Market Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, tuners, and professional mechanics focused on the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R.
Vehicle Highlights:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC), turbocharged 4G63T engine, potent performance, rally heritage.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing the complex systems of the Evo 7, enabling owners to maximize performance and longevity.
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive coverage of the 4G63T engine, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all major components.
Engine Electrical:
Detailed wiring diagrams, ECU pinouts, sensor testing, ignition system diagnostics, and starter/alternator troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Includes fuel injection system operation, fuel pump testing, injector diagnostics, fuel pressure regulation, and emission control systems.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant flow, and troubleshooting for overheating issues.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump operation, oil filter replacement, oil pressure testing, and lubrication circuit diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Detailed procedures for clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear selection, and driveline components.
Transmission Automnatic Acd Ayc:
Specific coverage for the Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) systems, including operation, diagnostics, and component testing.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut assembly, control arms, anti-roll bar, and wheel bearing replacement procedures.
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link suspension, trailing arms, shock absorber replacement, and alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rod ends, and steering column service.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics, brake fluid replacement, and caliper service.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, hood and trunk operation, and chassis component repair.
Electrical System Body:
Lighting systems, wipers, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, and accessory circuits.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, and brake fluid replacement procedures.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major vehicle systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuilding, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, etc.), timing belt replacement, and turbocharger servicing.
Transmission Repair:
In-depth procedures for manual gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, and ACD/AYC unit servicing.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of suspension components, alignment adjustments, and steering system repairs.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line repair, and ABS system bleeding.
Electrical System Repair:
Component replacement for sensors, actuators, ECUs, and troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior Repair:
Procedures for body panel alignment, door and window repairs, and interior trim panel replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic fault codes and their resolutions.
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their corresponding diagnostic and repair procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific measurements for component clearances and tolerances required for proper assembly and function.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 km (4,660 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using high-quality synthetic oil).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 30,000 km (18,600 miles), replace as needed (typically iridium plugs recommended, e.g., NGK BKR7EIX or equivalent).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 90,000 km (55,900 miles) or 5 years. Crucial for 4G63T engine longevity.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,850 miles).
Brake Fluid:
Replace every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,600 miles) with a high-performance DOT 4 fluid.
Engine Oil Type:
High-performance Synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40, API SG/SH/SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B3, A3/B4 rated. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) is recommended.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual Transmission: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (e.g., DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil).
Differential Fluid:
Rear Differential (AYC unit): DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil GL-5 SAE 80W-90 or equivalent.
Acd Fluid:
DiaQueen ACD Fluid Special (LF).
Engine Wear:
Potential for valve stem seal leaks, turbocharger wear, and piston ring land cracking under extreme abuse or poor maintenance. Timing belt failure is catastrophic.
Ayc Acd Reliability:
ACD/AYC pump and sensors can fail over time, leading to warning lights and altered drivetrain behavior. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can wear, leading to a less precise feel and potential noise.
Rust:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in areas with harsh winters or high humidity, affecting wheel arches, sills, and subframes.
Brand Legacy:
Mitsubishi Motors has a strong heritage in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), with the Lancer Evolution line being a direct result of this.
Evolution Series:
The Lancer Evolution VII (CT9A) is the seventh generation of the performance variant of the Mitsubishi Lancer, succeeding the Evo VI and preceding the Evo VIII.
Key Changes From Evo Vi:
Significant structural rigidity improvements, revised ACD and AYC systems, larger turbocharger (in some variants), and updated exterior styling.
Production Years:
February 2001 - February 2003
Manufacturing Location:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
Notable Variants:
GSR (standard) and RS (homologation special for racing, lighter with fewer amenities).