🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer Evolution VIII

Model Nickname:

Evo 8

Chassis Code Common:

CT9A

Engine Code Primary:

4G63T

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Compact Sedan / Rally Homologation Special

Competitors:

Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (lower performance tier), other performance compacts of the era.

Performance Highlights:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD), turbocharged 4G63T engine, advanced suspension geometry, high-performance braking system.

Target Audience:

Enthusiast drivers, tuners, rally sport participants, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

2003, 2004, 2005

Trim Levels Covered:

All US-market trims (e.g., GSR, MR)

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (4G63T), engine management (ECU, sensors), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, turbocharger system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

6-speed manual transmission, transfer case, front differential, rear differential (including ACD - Active Center Differential), driveshafts, axles

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), power steering system, steering column, steering gear

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake system bleeding, parking brake

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), gauges and instruments, power accessories (windows, locks), wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk, chassis components, corrosion protection

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis, and repair

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, structural safety components

General Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Engine Repair:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain service

Transmission Repair:

Transmission fluid change, clutch inspection and replacement, internal transmission component inspection and repair, transfer case service

Brake Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line inspection and replacement, ABS system diagnosis and repair

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack repair

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing sensors and actuators, diagnosing ECU issues

Turbocharger System Service:

Turbocharger inspection, diagnosis, and replacement; wastegate and boost control system service

Ac System Service:

Refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator)

Body Panel Replacement:

Removal and installation of fenders, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk lid

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms and fault codes

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical diagnostics and body repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Readability:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4G63T

Engine Type:

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

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1997 cc)

Horsepower Usdm:

271 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque Usdm:

273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Redline:

7000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Port Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Turbocharger Model:

Garrett T25 or similar (specific model may vary by market/version)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

None for US Market Evo 8

Drivetrain Layout:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Helical Front Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)

Rear Differential:

Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) on most trims, Viscous Coupling LSD on MR trim (check specific vehicle)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4490 mm (176.8 in)

Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2625 mm (103.3 in)

Front Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Rear Track:

1510 mm (59.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1500 kg (3200-3300 lbs), depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, consult owner's manual or vehicle sticker

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 2004 model year as an example, specific ratings may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for comparable models and years, specific Evo 8 ratings may be less documented)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brembo front and rear brakes (4-piston front, 2-piston rear)

Traction Control:

AYC (Active Yaw Control) on some models, ACD (Active Center Differential) enhances traction control

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), side impact airbags (optional/market dependent)

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for crash energy management

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory-provided AM/FM/CD player. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

Speakers:

Factory speaker system, often with amplifier.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Acd:

Active Center Differential (ACD) for adjustable torque distribution between front and rear axles.

Ayc:

Active Yaw Control (AYC) on some models for enhanced cornering stability by vectoring torque to the rear wheels.

Auxiliary Input:

Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input or CD changer controls.

Telematics:

No advanced telematics or smartphone integration features as standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially under spirited driving conditions. Use synthetic oil.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km). Refer to manual for specific plug type (e.g., Iridium).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for manual transmission. Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., DiaQueen Super Multi-Gear Oil LSD). ACD fluid change every 30,000 miles.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Use Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial maintenance item for 4G63T. Typically 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Consult manual for exact interval and related components (tensioners, idlers, water pump).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (synthetic recommended for performance)

Transmission Fluid Type:

DiaQueen Super Multi-Gear Oil LSD (or equivalent GL-4 75W-90) for the 6-speed manual. ACD fluid: DiaQueen ACD Special Fluid (or equivalent).

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.

Engine Long Term Health:

Requires diligent maintenance, especially timing belt replacement. Overheating can lead to head gasket failure. Check for oil leaks from turbo and valve cover gaskets.

Acd System Maintenance:

ACD pump and fluid need regular attention. Failure to service can lead to premature pump failure or differential issues.

Suspension Wear:

Due to its performance nature, suspension components (bushings, ball joints, struts) can experience accelerated wear.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch life is highly dependent on driving style; aggressive use can lead to premature wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Motorsport Legacy:

Direct lineage from Mitsubishi's successful World Rally Championship (WRC) program, homologation special for Group N and Group A racing.

Predecessors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I-VII

Successors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, X

Key Changes From Ev7:

Introduction of the 6-speed transmission, revised ACD system, Bilstein shock absorbers on some trims, updated front bumper and headlights, larger turbocharger on some variants, slightly higher power output.

Production Years Global:

2003-2005

Production Location:

Japan (Mizushima Plant)

Us Market Introduction:

October 2003 for the 2004 model year

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and rally-bred capabilities. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of its era.

Handling Dynamics:

Extremely high ratings for steering feel, grip, chassis balance, and feedback. Considered a benchmark for AWD performance cars.

Homologation Status:

Developed as a homologation special for motorsport (WRC Group N and Group A), ensuring it met FIA regulations for competition.