Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-II trouble code explanations and resolution strategies
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters
Technical Depth
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Wiring Diagrams:
Full electrical system schematics with component locations
📊 Manual Specifications
File
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections
Interactivity:
Clickable table of contents and internal links (if applicable)
Physical
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine Options
Engine 1 Code:
4G15
Engine 1 Type:
Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve
Engine 1 Displacement:
1.5 Liters (1498 cc)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
75.5 mm x 83.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (typical)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
90-100 PS (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
120-130 Nm (approx.)
Engine 2 Code:
4G18
Engine 2 Type:
Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve
Engine 2 Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1584 cc)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 87.3 mm
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (typical)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
100-110 PS (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
140-150 Nm (approx.)
Engine 3 Code:
4G93
Engine 3 Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, MIVEC (on some variants)
Engine 3 Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 89.0 mm
Engine 3 Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
125-140 PS (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
160-175 Nm (approx.)
Engine 4 Code:
4G63
Engine 4 Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged (on Ralliart/Evolution variants)
Engine 4 Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Engine 4 Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Engine 4 Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (Turbocharged)
Engine 4 Horsepower:
200-260 PS (approx. for turbo variants)
Engine 4 Torque:
280-350 Nm (approx. for turbo variants)
Performance
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) on some later models
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with thermostatic control
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on many variants)
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Type 1:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Optional Transmission
Type 2:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4AT)
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or similar specified grade); Automatic: Dia Queen ATF-SPII (or equivalent)
Final Drive Ratio:
Varies by engine and transmission (e.g., 4.300, 4.529)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on some performance variants (e.g., Ralliart)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Sedan
Length:
Approx. 4480 mm (176.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1500 mm (59.1 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1490 mm (58.7 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150 mm (5.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1150-1400 kg (2535-3086 lbs) depending on configuration
Exterior Hatchback
Length:
Approx. 4265 mm (167.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1445 mm (56.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 450 Liters (15.9 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 340 Liters (12.0 cu ft) with seats up, expandable
Wheels And Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy or steel wheels
Optional Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy wheels on sportier trims
Standard Tire Size:
195/60R15, 205/55R16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100 or 5x114.3 mm (depending on model/variant)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
Generally rated 4 out of 5 stars (for models tested in this period)
IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable to Good (depending on year and specific test)
Active Features
Antilock Braking System:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Often paired with ABS
Traction Control:
Available on higher trims and AWD models
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard on higher trims
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Standard
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate on higher trims).
Display Screen:
Basic digital display for radio/clock; larger color screens on later/higher trims for navigation (optional).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Anti Theft System:
Immobilizer system standard on most models.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available on some models for external audio devices.
Bluetooth:
Rarely available on models from this era, typically an aftermarket addition.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (standard vs. iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect regularly, change as needed. Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on driving conditions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.8-4.3 Liters (4.0-4.5 US Quarts) with filter change, depending on engine.
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Dexron III ATF).
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and cracking of engine mounts, leading to vibration and clunking noises.
Oxygen Sensors:
Failure of oxygen sensors can lead to poor fuel economy and check engine light illumination.
Alternator:
Alternator failure can occur, leading to battery drain and loss of electrical power.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Premature wear of rear wheel bearings, causing humming or grinding noises.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail over time, impacting performance and emissions.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions may experience delayed shifting or harsh engagement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors Origins:
Founded in 1870, established automotive division in 1917 with the Model A.
Model Evolution Lancer
First Generation:
Introduced in 1973 as a compact car.
Current Generation Launch:
Tenth generation (CS/CT) launched for the 2000 model year (globally, some markets later).
Design Philosophy Cs Ct:
Focus on practicality, affordability, and a degree of sporty driving dynamics. Distinctive 'jet-fighter' grille design introduced in later facelifts.
Performance Variants:
Lancer Ralliart offered with a turbocharged engine and AWD; Lancer Evolution (Evo VII, VIII, IX) extremely popular in rally and performance circles, though the manual is for the standard Lancer.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, but also assembled in various global locations due to Mitsubishi's international manufacturing network.
Production Years Covered:
2000-2007 encompasses the initial launch and several minor facelifts of the CS/CT generation.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Competitive Awards:
While the standard Lancer didn't garner major individual awards, its platform shared with other Chrysler Group vehicles (like the Dodge Caliber) contributed to its market presence. The Lancer Evolution, however, is a motorsport icon.
Ratings
Reliability Rankings:
Generally considered average to good for its class, with specific reliability varying by engine and maintenance history.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with US EPA and CARB emission standards for its respective model years.