🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Lancer

Model Variant:

Lancer Sportback, Lancer Evolution

Year:

2004

Chassis Codes:

CY, CZ (specific to Evo VIII variants)

Engine Codes:

4G63 (for Evolution variants), 4G1x series (for standard Lancer and Sportback variants)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer represented a significant step in the evolution of Mitsubishi's compact car lineup, offering both economical transportation (Lancer/Sportback) and a highly acclaimed performance variant (Evolution).

Competitors:

Standard Lancer: Competed with models like Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus. Lancer Evolution: A niche performance sedan, rivaling Subaru Impreza WRX STi, and offering a more accessible alternative to exotic sports cars.

Standard Lancer Sportback:

Practicality, fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, available in sedan and hatchback (Sportback) body styles.

Lancer Evolution Viii:

Legendary turbocharged 4G63 engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system (Super All-Wheel Control - S-AWC), performance-tuned suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, homologation special for rally racing.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

Global (specifications may vary by region, this manual covers general factory specifications)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2500+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions), Transmission (manual, automatic), Drivetrain (transfer case, differentials, axles, driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (front, rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), Wheels and Tires

Body And Electrical:

Body (exterior panels, interior trim, glass, HVAC), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, lighting, charging, starting, ignition, body control modules, sensors, actuators)

Comfort Systems:

HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, interior lighting.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagram interpretation, component testing

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all systems, component location charts, diagnostic flowcharts for electrical faults.

Body Repair:

Panel removal and installation, glass replacement, bumper repair, structural repair guidelines.

Emission Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, EGR, catalytic converter, O2 sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using specific Mitsubishi diagnostic tools (e.g., MUT-II or MUT-III compatible scanners) for engine, transmission, and ABS/AYC/ACD systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components, essential for correct assembly and safety.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, enabling clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Evo Viii Engine:

2.0L 16-valve DOHC Intercooled Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63T)

Evo Viii Horsepower:

271 hp @ 6500 rpm (U.S. specification, can vary by region and tune)

Evo Viii Torque:

273 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (U.S. specification)

Evo Viii Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection, Denso fuel injectors (e.g., 560cc or higher for performance variants), high-flow fuel pump.

Std Lancer Engine Options:

Likely 2.0L 4G63 SOHC or 2.4L 4G69 (depending on market), and smaller displacement 4G1x engines (e.g., 1.5L, 1.6L).

Std Lancer Engine Displacement:

Ranges from 1.3L to 2.4L depending on market and trim.

🔧 Transmission

Evo Viii Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (Getrag-type)

Std Lancer Transmission:

4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual

Evo Viii AWD System:

Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) including Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC), providing advanced torque distribution and cornering stability.

Evo Viii Mtf:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, often with limited-slip additive requirements (e.g., DiaQueen LSD oil).

📐 Dimensions

Evo Viii Wheelbase:

2626 mm (103.4 in)

Evo Viii Length:

4374 mm (172.2 in)

Evo Viii Width:

1770 mm (69.7 in)

Evo Viii Height:

1415 mm (55.7 in)

Sportback Length:

Approx. 4240 mm (167 in)

Sportback Height:

Approx. 1490 mm (58.7 in)

Evo Viii Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)

Std Lancer Wheelbase:

Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)

Std Lancer Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2750-2975 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Std Lancer NHTSA:

Likely 4-star frontal, 5-star side for driver/passenger (depending on specific market and equipment).

Evo Viii Active:

ABS, EBD, AYC, ACD, Performance-tuned braking system (Brembo optional).

Passive:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim), reinforced body structure (RISE body system).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Std Lancer:

Basic AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems.

Infotainment Evo Viii:

Similar to standard Lancer, but often with performance-oriented gauges and displays. Limited advanced tech by modern standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS with EBD is standard. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, etc., were not available on this model.

Evo Viii AWD Tech Detail:

ACD (Active Center Differential) electronically controls torque split between front and rear axles. AYC (Active Yaw Control) uses braking and throttle manipulation to manage yaw rate for improved cornering.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity as standard. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service), or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service) - refer to manual for specific details and engine type.

Timing Belt Interval:

60,000-70,000 miles (4G63T engine - critical replacement to prevent catastrophic engine damage).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (iridium recommended for Evo).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG, SH, SJ, or SL rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity and ACEA ratings for performance engines).

Coolant Spec:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, consult manual for specific type.

Evo Viii Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent.

Evo Viii Transfer Case Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD 80W-90 or equivalent.

Evo Viii Rear Differential Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD 80W-90 or equivalent.

Evo Viii Common Issues:

Turbocharger wear/failure (especially with aggressive tuning or poor maintenance), piston ring land failure (4G63), clutch wear, differential failures (AYC/ACD if neglected), ECU failure, fuel pump failure.

Std Lancer Common Issues:

Catalytic converter failure, EGR issues, transmission synchro wear (manual), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), minor electrical gremlins.

Std Lancer Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, manual transmissions may experience clutch chatter or synchro wear on higher mileage vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust engineering and a strong presence in motorsport, particularly rallying with the Lancer Evolution.

Lancer Evolution Lineage:

The Lancer Evolution (Evo) lineage began in 1992 as a homologation special for the World Rally Championship. The 2004 model, the Evolution VIII, marked the eighth generation, bringing significant updates in engine, AWD technology, and chassis refinement.

Lancer Sportback Context:

The Sportback variant provided a more practical, hatchback alternative to the traditional Lancer sedan, aiming to capture buyers seeking versatility.

Evo Viii Production Period:

2003-2005

Std Lancer Platform:

Based on Mitsubishi's global compact car platform, shared to some extent with other DaimlerChrysler products during that era.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Evo Viii Performance Awards:

Consistently lauded by automotive press for its handling, acceleration, and rally-bred performance. Often featured in 'best performance car' lists.

Std Lancer Reliability Ratings:

Mixed to good, depending on specific engine and transmission, with some models showing better long-term reliability than others. Consult specific consumer reports data.