🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Mirage

Year:

1997

Chassis Codes:

CJ1A, CJ2A, CJ4A, CJ5A (North America - GF, GM, GN series)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact/Compact Economy Car

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.

Value Proposition:

Official, factory-authorized service information enabling accurate and efficient repairs.

Convenience:

Digital format for quick access and searchability, eliminating the need for physical books.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America (GF/GM/GN Series)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (Digital/Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely searchable PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

4G92 SOHC, 4G93 DOHC (non-turbo and turbo variants), engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, idle air control.

Engine Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable for specific markets), crank/cam sensors, ignition timing.

Engine Emission Control:

EGR system, PCV system, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).

Transmission Manual:

W5MG1 (5-speed), clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

F4A22 (4-speed automatic), torque converter, valve body, planetary gearsets, hydraulic control, lubrication.

Drivetrain Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars, wheel alignment specifications.

Drivetrain Axles:

Front drive axles (CV joints), rear axles (if applicable).

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, steering wheel alignment.

Electrical Charging:

Alternator specifications, battery maintenance, wiring diagrams for charging circuit.

Electrical Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, wiring diagrams for starting circuit.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, wiring diagrams.

Electrical Instruments Gauges:

Instrument cluster, speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, wiring diagrams.

Electrical Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, remote mirrors, horn, wipers, radio, HVAC blower, wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Dashboard removal, seat removal, trim panel replacement, carpet replacement.

Body Exterior:

Door panel removal, bumper replacement, fender replacement, hood and trunk latch mechanisms, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, controls, diagnostic procedures.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) components, diagnosis, and precautions; seat belt mechanisms.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

General troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for ECU and related systems.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation.

Repair:

Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement), transmission repair (clutch replacement, automatic transmission rebuild), suspension component replacement, brake system repair, steering system repair, electrical component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostics, fault finding for engine performance issues, electrical system faults, transmission slippage, brake noise, etc.

Installation:

Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, radiator, fuel pump, brake calipers).

Diagnostics:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, typically) code retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

Detail Level:

Factory-level detail with step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, and special tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Proprietary Software/Searchable PDF

Searchability:

High (expected for software/digital format)

Print Capability:

Printable pages (standard for repair manuals)

Binding:

Not Applicable (Software)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Primary:

4G92 (1.6L SOHC)

Engine Configuration Primary:

Inline 4-cylinder

Displacement Primary:

1597 cc (97.4 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke Primary:

78.0 mm x 82.0 mm (3.07 in. x 3.23 in.)

Compression Ratio Primary:

9.5:1 (typical for SOHC)

Horsepower Primary Sohc:

111 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque Primary Sohc:

103 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower Optional DOHc:

140 hp @ 6500 rpm (GSR model, approx.)

Torque Optional DOHc:

120 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (GSR model, approx.)

Engine Code Optional:

4G93 (1.8L DOHC - GSR model)

Engine Configuration Optional:

Inline 4-cylinder

Displacement Optional:

1830 cc (111.7 cu. in.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type Recommended:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher, premium recommended for GSR)

Block Material:

Aluminum alloy

Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual (W5MG1)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic (F4A22)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model, detailed in manual.

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, overdrive.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diamond SP-III (or equivalent SP-III ATF).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

97.0 inches (2465 mm)

Length:

164.0 inches (4165 mm)

Width:

66.3 inches (1685 mm)

Height:

54.1 inches (1375 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

2300 - 2600 lbs (approx., depending on trim and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Detailed in manual, typically around 3400-3700 lbs.

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Not specified, typically compact sedan volume.

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Not specified, typically compact hatchback volume.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Likely 3-star or 4-star rating (check specific vehicle configuration for exact details, as ratings varied).

IIHS Ratings:

Not readily available for this model year; check contemporary reviews.

ABS:

Available on some trims (e.g., GSR, ES).

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard on most trims for 1997.

Seat Belts:

3-point front seatbelts, 2-point or 3-point rear seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard; typically uses seatbelt for child seat installation.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels (ES, LS).

Auxiliary Ports:

Not applicable for this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 to 5,000 miles (6,000 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific engine type and driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years for 4G92/4G93 engines due to interference design (critical replacement).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact recommendation based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi Green or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Common Problem 1:

Timing belt failure (due to age and mileage on original belts or improper replacement) can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Common Problem 2:

Transmission issues: Automatic transmission solenoids or valve body wear can lead to shifting problems; manual clutch wear.

Common Problem 3:

Ignition system components: Distributor cap and rotor wear, ignition coil failure can cause misfires.

Common Problem 4:

Suspension wear: Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear out, leading to clunking noises or alignment issues.

Common Problem 5:

Electrical issues: Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, or dashboard light failures can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi History:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, particularly in the compact and subcompact segments.

Mirage Generations:

This 1997 model represents the third generation of the Mitsubishi Mirage (globally known as Colt in some markets), which saw significant styling updates and platform revisions for its era.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan (e.g., Mizushima Plant), with potential assembly in other global locations.

Model Years Covered:

This manual specifically covers the 1997 model year, but often includes some overlap into adjacent years or minor variations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Awards:

While specific awards for the '97 model are not widely publicized, the third-generation Mirage was generally well-regarded for its fuel efficiency and value in the subcompact segment.