Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Car
Target Audience:
Value-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, small families
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Accent
Manufacturer Focus:
Fuel efficiency, reliability, affordability, compact maneuverability
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback (some markets)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system, intake and exhaust systems
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), engine control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators, starter, alternator, battery
Transmission:
Manual transmission (F5M21, F5M22 series) and Automatic transmission (F4A22 series) - removal, installation, overhaul, adjustments, torque converter, shift control
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent multi-link or torsion beam depending on sub-model), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rod ends, alignment
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on higher trims), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system - components, refrigerant, operation, diagnosis
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements, belt inspections and replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults and symptoms, OBD-II trouble codes
Component Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components (engine, transmission, brakes, etc.)
Electrical Diagnosis:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical issues
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, rust prevention, glass replacement
Lubrication And Fluids:
Fluid type specifications, capacities, and change intervals for engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Tools:
Mentions use of scan tools for OBD-II diagnostics, multimeter for electrical testing, and specific Mitsubishi diagnostic equipment (if applicable)
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., F5M21, F5M22)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., F4A22)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, Overdrive gear
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or manufacturer specified equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-SP II M (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles (6,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years, whichever comes first (crucial for interference engines)
Engine Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or manufacturer-specified power steering fluid
Common Problems:
Transmission synchro wear (manual), automatic transmission solenoid issues, interior trim creaks, occasional ignition coil failure, power window regulator failures, potential for rust in certain climates
Engine Mounts:
Engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration. Replacement is a common maintenance item.
Oxygen Sensor:
Oxygen sensors can fail, leading to poor fuel economy and check engine lights.