Market Segment:
Compact to small family car, with performance variants (GSR, EVO) targeting the enthusiast market.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Mazda 323/Familia.
Model Strengths:
Reputation for reliability, affordable performance, strong enthusiast following, especially for the EVO variants.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for maintaining these vehicles optimally, especially the performance-oriented models.
Engine:
Complete engine service, repair, troubleshooting, overhaul, and diagnostics for all specified engine codes.
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires, frame, body structure, and all related mechanical components.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems including engine management, lighting, accessories, and body electronics.
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and troubleshooting for manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and troubleshooting for automatic transmissions.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil specifications, oil change procedures.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, timing, diagnostic procedures.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, emissions control.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc/drum components, ABS (if applicable), fluid specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/box, linkage.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, structural integrity, rust prevention, interior trim, exterior trim.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C refrigerant, heater core, blower motor.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), and related safety components.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I or proprietary).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including major overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic trees, circuit testing, component testing procedures, pressure tests, and resistance checks.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Level:
Expert - Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and chassis alignment.
Engine Family 4G1:
Inline-4 cylinder, SOHC/DOHC (depending on application), available in 1.3L (4G13) and 1.5L (4G15) displacements. Known for fuel efficiency and reliability in base models.
Engine Family 4G9:
Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, MIVEC (on some variants), available in 1.8L (4G93) and 2.0L (4G92 - typically 1.6L MIVEC) displacements. Offered better performance and technology.
Engine Family 4G6:
Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, turbocharged (TC), 2.0L (4G63) and 2.4L (4G64) displacements. The 4G63 is legendary in performance circles, especially in the GSR and EVO models. The 4G64 provided more torque in larger sedans.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 70 hp (4G13 base) to over 250 hp (4G63T EVO models).
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 Nm (4G13 base) to over 300 Nm (4G63T EVO models).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most models, especially for the 4G9 and 4G6 series. Carbureted versions may exist for earlier or base 4G1 engines in some markets.
Turbocharging:
Present on 4G63T (GSR, EVO) models, featuring intercooling and wastegate control.
Standard Transmission Base Models:
5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission Base Models:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Performance Transmission Features:
5-speed manual (GSR) or 5-speed close-ratio manual (EVO) with robust clutch assemblies. EVO models feature advanced all-wheel-drive systems (e.g., DCCD, active center differential).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically API GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for specific fill quantities.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi SP II or equivalent DEXRON II/III type ATF. Refer to manual for specific fill quantities.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type: standard plugs ~30,000 miles, platinum/iridium plugs ~60,000 - 100,000 miles. Consult manual for correct type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for interference engines (most 4G9 and 4G6 series). Typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km). Failure results in catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30. Consult manual for precise grade and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent is recommended for later models, but an older type might be specified. Consult manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Always use fresh, sealed fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (manual transmissions), worn suspension bushings, alternator failure, starter motor issues, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on turbocharged models), power steering pump leaks.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Head gasket failures (especially on higher mileage or boosted engines), oil consumption in older 4G1/4G9 engines, turbocharger wear on 4G63T engines. Check for oil leaks from cam seals and crank seals.
Electrical Concerns:
Corroded ground points, aging wiring harnesses, failure of power window regulators, intermittent dashboard warning lights. ECU failure is also a possibility.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to 1917 (as part of the Mitsubishi zaibatsu). Known for reliable, durable, and increasingly performance-oriented vehicles.
Lancer Mirage Colt Evolution:
The Lancer platform served as the basis for many models, including the Mirage and Colt in various markets. The CC generation (1992-1996) saw significant updates, including the introduction of the legendary Lancer Evolution (Evo) performance variants, which brought rally-bred technology to the road.
Production Period:
1992-1996 for the CC platform.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other global locations.