Segment:
Compact Economy Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliability.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Affordability, fuel economy, nimble handling, practical interior, reputation for reliability.
Benefits For Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Benefits For Mechanic:
Provides factory-level specifications, procedures, and diagrams essential for accurate diagnostics and repairs, enhancing efficiency and quality of work.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, component inspection, and overhaul for all applicable gasoline engines.
Engine Control System:
Comprehensive diagrams and troubleshooting procedures for the Engine Control Unit (ECU), sensors, actuators, and ignition system.
Fuel Injection:
Detailed explanations of fuel delivery, injection timing, fuel pump operation, injectors, and related diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Manual:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for the 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch system.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed repair, overhaul, and diagnostic information for the automatic transmission, including valve body, torque converter, and electronic controls.
Brake System:
Coverage includes disc and drum brake systems, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic components, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed information on front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam/independent suspension (model dependent), power steering system, and alignment specifications.
Electrical Schematics:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including lighting, starting, charging, accessories, and ECU.
Body Electrical:
Troubleshooting and repair for power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, and interior lighting.
HVAC System:
Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Chassis And Body:
Structural repair information, panel replacement, door and window adjustments, and corrosion protection.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete step-by-step instructions for engine teardown, component measurement (e.g., cylinder bore, piston ring end gap), and reassembly with torque specifications.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Precise procedures for timing belt removal and installation, including camshaft and crankshaft timing alignment.
Brake Pad Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing front and rear brake pads and rotors, including caliper servicing.
Clutch Replacement:
Step-by-step guide for clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing replacement on manual transmission models.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, and struts/shocks.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing common problems using symptom-based charts and fault code interpretation.
Component Testing:
Procedures for testing individual components such as sensors, actuators, relays, and solenoids using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Fluid And Filter Changes:
Recommended procedures and fluid specifications for engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, routine servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component removal/installation, and complete unit overhaul.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair Complexity:
Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, with clear instructions for complex repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement Liters:
1.3 L (1343 cc) / 1.5 L (1468 cc)
Horsepower 1.3L:
Approx. 70-75 HP @ 5500-6000 RPM
Torque 1.3L:
Approx. 75-80 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 RPM
Horsepower 1.5L:
Approx. 80-92 HP @ 5500-6000 RPM
Torque 1.5L:
Approx. 85-95 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Change:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), using specified plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, due to potential failure and severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.3 - 3.5 Liters (3.5 - 3.7 Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-II or equivalent ATF (Dexron II/III compatible).
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical component; failure leads to catastrophic engine damage. Regular replacement is paramount.
Radiator Corrosion:
Over time, radiators can corrode, leading to coolant leaks. Flushing and replacement may be necessary.
Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Can be caused by low fluid, worn solenoids, or internal wear. Requires diagnostic attention.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues. The manual's wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.
Suspension Wear:
Components like ball joints, bushings, and struts are wear items and may require replacement to maintain ride quality and handling.
Mitsubishi Motors Origin:
Founded in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation evolved from the automotive division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a conglomerate with a long history dating back to 1870.
Generation:
This represents the fourth generation of the Mitsubishi Mirage (CC platform), which debuted in late 1991 for the 1992 model year.
Body Styles:
Available as a 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, and 4-door sedan. Convertible models also existed in earlier generations but were less common in this iteration.
Production Years Global:
1991-1995 (for this generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Mizushima Plant) and various international assembly plants.
Consumer Reports:
Often rated as average to above average in reliability for its class during its production run, though specific awards are not prominent.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Competitively ranked within its segment for initial quality and dependability.
Fuel Economy Epa Estimate City:
Approx. 25-30 MPG (for 1.5L models).
Fuel Economy Epa Estimate Highway:
Approx. 30-35 MPG (for 1.5L models).
Emissions Compliance:
Meets U.S. Federal emissions standards for 1995 model year vehicles.