Positioning:
Performance compact sedan, rally homologation special
Competitors:
Subaru WRX STI, Honda Civic Type R (FN2/EP3), Volkswagen Golf GTI
Performance Focus:
Advanced AWD system (ACD/AYC), powerful turbocharged engine, sophisticated chassis dynamics
Primary Coverage:
North America
Secondary Coverage:
Global markets with potential regional variations noted
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Completeness:
Official Factory Service Manual, considered the definitive guide
File Format Quality:
High-resolution scans, searchable text where applicable
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use
Powertrain:
Engine (4G63T), Drivetrain (AYC, ACD, TC-SST, Transfer Case, Differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD, Brembo optional)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Sensors, Lighting, Audio, Immobilizer
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Seats, HVAC, SRS Airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Turbocharger Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Definitions, Circuit Testing
Special Procedures:
AYC/ACD System Calibration, ECU Relearning Procedures, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Reset
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor data interpretation, fuel system tuning basics
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair guidance, trim removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete teardown and reassembly
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting trees for electrical faults
Performance Tuning Support:
While not a tuning guide, it provides baseline specifications and procedures necessary for understanding and working on performance-oriented components.
Engine Type:
4G63T MIVEC Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G 8cm² (or similar variant)
Horsepower:
271 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag Aisin)
Transmission Type:
None (Manual transmission standard for VIII)
Drivetrain System:
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) including Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.143, 2nd: 2.045, 3rd: 1.481, 4th: 1.147, 5th: 0.985, 6th: 0.775)
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Manual) / SPIII ATF (AYC/ACD/Rear Diff)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not specifically rated for 2003 US model, general safety structure considered robust
IIHS Rating:
Not specifically rated for 2003 US model
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Active Traction Control (TC) integrated with S-AWC
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR Seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Safety Structure:
Reinforced body structure for rigidity and crash energy management
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-45,000 miles depending on type (e.g., Iridium)
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years (Critical Item!)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in colder climates)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, turbocharger seals, front differential/axle wear under aggressive driving
Engine Specific Concerns:
Head gasket failure can occur if overheated or improperly maintained; connecting rod failure at very high power levels.
Ayc Acd Maintenance:
Requires periodic fluid changes; failure of sensors or solenoids can occur.
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi has a strong rally heritage, with the Lancer Evolution being a direct descendant of its rally cars.
Evolution Lineage:
The Lancer Evolution VIII is the eighth generation in the iconic Evo line, building upon the success of its predecessors.
Key Updates Viii:
Introduction of the 6-speed manual, updated AYC/ACD, larger turbocharger, and revised suspension geometry.
Production Years:
2003-2005 (for the VIII generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
