The definitive guide for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of this legendary vehicle.
Manual Transmission (GSR, RS), Transfer Case, ACD (Active Center Differential), AYC (Active Yaw Control), Driveshafts, Differentials (Front/Rear), Clutch system
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (Multi-link), Power steering system, Wheel alignment, Suspension components
Braking Systems:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes (Brembo option), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake hydraulics, Parking brake system
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, Starting and charging systems, Lighting, Instruments, Wiper/Washer systems, Audio system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and related sensors, Immobilizer, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Body Chassis:
Body structure, Exterior panels, Doors, Windows, Hood, Trunk, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement, Fluid checks and top-offs, Brake pad inspection
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, Piston/ring replacement, Cylinder head service, Timing belt/chain replacement, Turbocharger rebuild/replacement, MIVEC system diagnostics and repair
Drivetrain Repair:
Transmission removal/installation, Clutch replacement, Differential service, ACD/AYC system troubleshooting and repair, Driveshaft and U-joint service
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, Bushing replacement, Ball joint replacement, Tie rod end replacement, Steering rack service
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, clearances, and component tolerances.
Illustrations:
Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Printability:
All pages are printable
Image Quality:
High-resolution images and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged with MIVEC
Engine Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997cc)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Turbocharger Spec:
Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G6-10.5T (or similar, depending on market/spec)
High-flow fuel injectors, electric fuel pump, Bosch ECU
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Transmission Gear Ratios Primary:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 2.750, 2nd: 1.944, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.030, 5th: 0.864, 6th: 0.760)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard for Evo IX)
Features
Drivetrain Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Active Yaw Control (AYC).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4490 mm (176.8 in)
Width:
1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
1415 mm (55.7 in)
Wheelbase:
2630 mm (103.5 in)
Front Track:
1515 mm (59.6 in)
Rear Track:
1515 mm (59.6 in)
Ground Clearance:
135 mm (5.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
1400-1450 kg (approx. 3086-3197 lbs), varies by trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate
Cargo
Trunk Volume Liters:
350 L (approx. 12.4 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (as per available records for similar models/years)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (as per available records for similar models/years)
Active Features
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC)
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Side curtain airbags (optional/market dependent), Reinforced chassis, Seatbelt pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic aftermarket or factory radio systems, typically single-DIN or double-DIN units with CD player and AM/FM radio. Bluetooth and navigation were not standard factory features on most models.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ACD, AYC. No electronic stability control (ESC) as standard on most markets/trims, though some later JDM models might have had it.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited to factory radio connectivity (e.g., CD changer port), often upgraded with aftermarket head units for modern smartphone integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Every 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 7 years, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) - Iridium plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Fully Synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-30 (API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant
DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent (for AYC-equipped vehicles, specific LSD fluid is critical)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, turbocharger seal leaks, ACD pump failure, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, exhaust manifold cracks (under high stress).
Engine Specific Concerns:
Valve stem seals, PCV system clogging, oil slinger issues (if poorly maintained). MIVEC solenoid issues can arise with age/lack of maintenance.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, known for its rally heritage and performance-oriented vehicles.
Model Evolution
Evolution Lineage:
Part of the Lancer Evolution series, which originated as a homologation special for World Rally Championship (WRC).
Ninth Generation:
The Evo IX represents the final iteration of the CT9A platform, refining the technology and performance of its predecessors.
Production
Production Years:
2005-2007
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
Key Trims:
GSR (Grand Sport Racing), RS (Rally Sport - more stripped down, often RHD only).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive media for its handling, performance, and rally-bred capabilities. Frequently featured in 'best performance car' lists and comparison tests.
Ratings
Enthusiast Ratings:
Highly regarded by enthusiasts and tuners for its robust powertrain, effective AWD system, and significant aftermarket support.
Certifications
Homologation:
Rally homologation for the World Rally Championship (WRC).