Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car (C-segment)
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking to understand and maintain their Lancer X.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Subaru Impreza.
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive 'jet fighter' grille design, sporty styling, available performance variants (Ralliart, Evolution X).
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance, diagnose issues, and conduct repairs, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators)
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), transaxle, drive shafts, differentials, all-wheel drive (AWC/S-AWC) systems
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, EBD, brake assist), wheel alignment
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), gateway module
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seats, HVAC system, SRS airbag system, security system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation and balancing
Repair:
Engine rebuilding (short block, long block, cylinder head), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms), brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, power steering pump replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, A/C system servicing, body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring harness continuity testing, common fault identification
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic to advanced repairs, including full engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Examples:
4A91 (1.5L MIVEC), 4B10 (1.8L MIVEC), 4B11 (2.0L MIVEC), 4B11T (2.0L MIVEC Turbocharged - Evolution X)
Displacement Range:
1.5L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.0L Turbocharged
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 107 hp (1.5L) to 291 hp (Evolution X)
Torque Range:
Approx. 100 lb-ft (1.5L) to 300 lb-ft (Evolution X)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 or 89, higher for turbo models)
Block Material:
Aluminum alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-Plug for many variants)
Variable Valve Timing:
MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system) on intake and/or exhaust camshafts for many variants.
Transmission Type Examples:
5-speed manual, 6-speed manual (Evolution X), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT - INVECS-III)
Transmission Type Examples:
6-speed INVECS-III Sport Mode CVT, 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (TC-SST - Evolution X)
Cvt Features:
Simulated gear shifts, paddle shifters (on some models), adaptive shift control.
AWD System:
All-Wheel Control (AWC) or Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) on performance models.
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally good, with 5-star frontal and side crash ratings for many models (check specific year/trim).
IIHS Ratings:
Good ratings in front, side, and rear impact tests for many models. Often a 'Top Safety Pick' for certain years.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCL) on many models, Active Stability Control (ASC) available.
Performance AWD:
S-AWC system on Evolution X provides advanced active torque distribution and handling control.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags on most models. Knee airbag for driver may be optional/standard on certain trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters. ISOFix child seat anchors.
Body Structure:
Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body structure for enhanced crash energy absorption.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to specific engine and oil recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium plugs, earlier for standard plugs. Consult manual for specific type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
CVT fluid: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Manual transmission: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Automatic transmission: Every 45,000-60,000 miles (72,000-96,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6 certified. Viscosity typically 0W-20 or 5W-30. Refer to oil cap or manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) - Pink color, or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant meeting MS59122 specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap or manual).
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
DiaQueen CVT Fluid J4 (or equivalent approved fluid).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 or SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Cvt Reliability:
Some early CVT models experienced issues with longevity or responsiveness. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some owners reported higher-than-average oil consumption, particularly with early 4B11 engines. Regular checks are advised.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components like control arm bushings and sway bar links can wear over time, leading to noise or handling degradation.
Thermostat Issues:
Occasional reports of thermostat failures causing irregular engine temperature.
Manufacturer:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Japan.
Brand Focus:
Known for reliable vehicles, rally heritage (Lancer Evolution), and innovative technologies like S-AWC.
Previous Generations:
The Lancer nameplate has a long history, with previous generations (Lancer IX, Lancer VIII) establishing its reputation as a sporty and accessible sedan.
Evolution X Significance:
The Lancer X marked a significant styling and engineering update, particularly with the introduction of the potent Lancer Evolution X based on the all-new platform.
Production Period:
2007 (model year 2008) - 2017
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Okazaki Plant), also assembled in other global locations like North America and Russia.
Safety Awards:
Recipient of various safety accolades from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA, often earning 'Top Safety Pick' designations.
Performance Awards:
Lancer Evolution X frequently praised for its performance, handling, and AWD system, earning awards from automotive journalists and enthusiasts.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally positive consumer reviews, with praise for value, performance (especially Evo models), and styling. Reliability ratings can vary by powertrain and year.