Generations Covered:
6th Generation (CJ/CK/CM/CN)
Model Years Covered:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Chassis Codes:
CJ1A, CK1A, CK2A, CK4A, CN9A, CS2A, CS5A, CS6A
Platform:
Mitsubishi MD platform
Market Segment:
Subcompact car, positioned as an affordable and fuel-efficient option.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, excellent fuel economy, reliability, and surprisingly spacious interior for its class.
Design Philosophy:
Focus on practical transportation, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications for 4G13, 4G15, 4G91, 4G92, 4G93 engines. Includes timing belt/chain, cooling system, fuel injection, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, torque converter information, shift linkage adjustment.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, axles, CV joints, differential service, driveshaft (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnostics, pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rod ends.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, rotor/pad replacement, parking brake.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, diagnosis of electrical faults.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, troubleshooting.
Emissions:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, spark plug replacement, tire rotation, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension replacement, electrical component repair.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system, DTC interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, diagnostic values, alignment angles.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and wiring schematics to aid in understanding and repair.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating:
Varies by year and testing, often 3 or 4 stars (check specific year reports)
IIHS Ratings:
Varies, generally acceptable to good in frontal offset tests for later models. Side impact testing less common for early models in this class.
Anti Lock Brakes ABS:
Optional on many trims, standard on some higher trims or later model years.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard from mid-90s. Side airbags rare.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners on front belts.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles (6,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check owner's manual for specific recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial! Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years for interference engines (check specific engine code). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Manual: Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed. Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check specific climate and engine requirements).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent ATF SP-II/III.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Common Issues Engine:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), minor oil leaks, occasional sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn struts/shocks, worn control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends leading to vague steering.
Common Issues Electrical:
Alternator failure, power window motor issues, occasional dashboard warning light glitches.
Common Issues HVAC:
A/C compressor clutch failure, evaporator leaks, blower resistor failures.
