Segment:
Mid-size to Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and well-equipped sedan, often with a focus on advanced features for its time.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES, Nissan Maxima, Honda Accord (higher trims), Ford Taurus (higher trims)
Distinguishing Features:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on some models, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for its era) optional features like active suspension and climate control.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost-effective maintenance and troubleshooting for owners and independent workshops.
Engine:
6G72 V6 (3.0L) - Overhaul, diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, intake, exhaust, emission control
Transmission:
F5M33 5-Speed Manual Transmission (Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms, linkages, drive shafts), F4A33 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid cooler)
Drivetrain:
Front Axle (CV joints, differential), Rear Axle (differential, drive components)
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar), Rear Suspension (Multi-link independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings)
Brakes:
Power Brake System (Master cylinder, booster, proportioning valve), Service Brakes (Front/Rear Disc Brakes, calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic lines, parking brake)
Steering:
Power Steering System (Pump, rack and pinion, steering column, linkages)
Body And Chassis:
Body (frame, panels, doors, hinges, latches, glass), Exterior (trim, lighting, bumpers), Interior (seats, upholstery, trim panels, headliner), Body Mounts
Electrical:
Chassis Electrical (Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, power windows, locks, mirrors, horn, wipers), Engine Electrical (Starter, alternator, ignition system, sensors, ECU connectors), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS - Airbag system components, sensors, control module, pre-tensioners)
HVAC:
Heater, Air Conditioner, and Ventilation (Compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, ducting, controls, refrigerant system)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable), sensor testing
Repair And Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete component overhauls and diagnostics)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with exploded views, diagrams, and illustrations
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (Consult manual for precise recommendation)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km) for the 6G72 engine. Crucial to replace as it's an interference engine.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Automatic transmission fluid should be checked more frequently.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter (Consult manual for exact specification and oil type, e.g., 10W-30 or 5W-30)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) (50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III compatible ATF or specific Mitsubishi power steering fluid
Engine:
Timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (interference engine), occasional head gasket issues, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues, occasional torque converter shudder, manual transmission clutch wear.
Suspension:
Worn bushings, strut mount failures, ball joint wear.
Electrical:
Power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor, aging wiring harnesses and sensor failures.