🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: Lancer (also Colt Lancer in some markets) Generation: Sixth Generation (CB/CC series, chassis codes primarily CM, CN, CP, CS for some export markets) Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Car (C-segment) Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable, economical transportation; enthusiasts looking for a platform for modification. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protegé. Key Features Reliability: Known for its robust mechanical components and good long-term reliability, especially with proper maintenance. Affordability: Generally positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle in its class. Sporty Variants: Offered in sporty variants like the GSR and Evolution (though Evo models are typically not covered in a standard Lancer manual, they share basic platform elements) which garnered significant motorsport recognition. Durability: Reputation for withstanding high mileage and demanding conditions. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language: English (assumed, typical for this market) Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive coverage including maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, engine specifications, timing belt replacement, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems. Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, clutch replacement, shift linkage adjustments. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential overhaul, CV joint replacement, driveshaft service. Brakes: Front and rear brake system repair (disc and drum), ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, master cylinder and caliper service. Suspension: Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, strut and shock absorber service, ball joint and tie rod end replacement, wheel alignment procedures and specifications. Steering: Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack and pump service, steering column components. Electrical: Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams for all major systems, lighting, ignition switch, power windows, central locking, starter motor, alternator, battery maintenance. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, collision repair information. Climate Control: HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator and condenser service, heater core replacement. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and adjustments. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues across all major vehicle systems. Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, including detailed diagrams and torque specifications. Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and diagnostic procedures for engine management and other electronic systems. Disassembly Reassembly: Detailed instructions for the removal and installation of major components and sub-assemblies. Technical Depth Level Of Detail: Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Searchable text content allowing quick access to specific information. Printability: Printable pages for offline reference. Image Quality: High-resolution diagrams and photographs for clarity. Binding Type Digital: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Digital: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: Mitsubishi 4G family (e.g., 4G9x series) Common Engine 1 Displacement: 1.6 Liters (1597 cc) Common Engine 1 Type: 4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve (4G92 variant) Common Engine 2 Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1830 cc) Common Engine 2 Type: 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (4G93 variant), including turbocharged MIVEC/GDI versions in some markets. Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 90 HP to 170 HP depending on engine and trim (Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged) Torque Range: Approximately 130 Nm to 220 Nm depending on engine and trim. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) in some higher-spec variants. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by market and engine) Engine Management Ignition System: Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS). Timing Belt Timing Belt Or Chain: Timing Belt (requiring regular replacement) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features All Wheel Drive: Optional on select models, typically paired with AWD systems (e.g., Lancer AWD variants). Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (check manual for exact spec) Automatic Transmission Fluid: DIAQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent (check manual for exact spec) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4320 mm (169.3 in) Width: Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in) Height: Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in) - varies with body style (sedan/coupe/wagon) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 1050 kg to 1300 kg (2315 lbs to 2866 lbs) depending on configuration. Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in) Tires Wheels Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches) Standard Tire Size: 185/65R14, 195/60R15 (common, varies by trim) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Crash Tests: Ratings vary significantly by market and testing body for this era. Refer to specific regional testing reports....
Sixth Generation (CB/CC series, chassis codes primarily CM, CN, CP, CS for some export markets)
Model Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Vehicle Class:
Compact Car (C-segment)
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable, economical transportation; enthusiasts looking for a platform for modification.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protegé.
Key Features
Reliability:
Known for its robust mechanical components and good long-term reliability, especially with proper maintenance.
Affordability:
Generally positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle in its class.
Sporty Variants:
Offered in sporty variants like the GSR and Evolution (though Evo models are typically not covered in a standard Lancer manual, they share basic platform elements) which garnered significant motorsport recognition.
Durability:
Reputation for withstanding high mileage and demanding conditions.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (assumed, typical for this market)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, engine specifications, timing belt replacement, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems.
Front and rear brake system repair (disc and drum), ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, master cylinder and caliper service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, strut and shock absorber service, ball joint and tie rod end replacement, wheel alignment procedures and specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack and pump service, steering column components.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams for all major systems, lighting, ignition switch, power windows, central locking, starter motor, alternator, battery maintenance.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal, collision repair information.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator and condenser service, heater core replacement.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues across all major vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, including detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and diagnostic procedures for engine management and other electronic systems.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for the removal and installation of major components and sub-assemblies.
Technical Depth
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text content allowing quick access to specific information.
Printability:
Printable pages for offline reference.
Image Quality:
High-resolution diagrams and photographs for clarity.
Binding Type
Digital:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Digital:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Family:
Mitsubishi 4G family (e.g., 4G9x series)
Common Engine 1 Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Common Engine 1 Type:
4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve (4G92 variant)
Common Engine 2 Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1830 cc)
Common Engine 2 Type:
4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (4G93 variant), including turbocharged MIVEC/GDI versions in some markets.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 HP to 170 HP depending on engine and trim (Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged)
Torque Range:
Approximately 130 Nm to 220 Nm depending on engine and trim.
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) in some higher-spec variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by market and engine)
Engine Management
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS).
Timing Belt
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Belt (requiring regular replacement)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Features
All Wheel Drive:
Optional on select models, typically paired with AWD systems (e.g., Lancer AWD variants).
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQueen ATF-J2 or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4320 mm (169.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in) - varies with body style (sedan/coupe/wagon)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1050 kg to 1300 kg (2315 lbs to 2866 lbs) depending on configuration.
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 in)
Tires Wheels
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
185/65R14, 195/60R15 (common, varies by trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Crash Tests:
Ratings vary significantly by market and testing body for this era. Refer to specific regional testing reports.
Active Features
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims and performance variants.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most later models within the range. Side airbags were rare.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Structural Integrity
Body Structure:
Reinforced impact zones and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional on later models). Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Dashboard Controls:
Basic analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature. Manual HVAC controls.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels and models equipped with automatic transmission.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Ports:
N/A (This era predates widespread adoption of auxiliary audio inputs or USB ports).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Filter Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 4-7 years. Critical preventative maintenance to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years. Use of Mitsubishi-specified coolant is recommended.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2. Viscosity typically 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check owner's manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.5 liters (3.7 - 4.8 US quarts) with filter, depending on engine.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration and noise, especially under acceleration.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on control arm bushings and sway bar links can cause clunking noises and affect handling.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in regions with harsh winters and road salt, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and the undercarriage.
Automatic Transmission Shifts:
Some models may exhibit rough shifting or delayed engagement, often resolvable with fluid changes and filter service.
Heater Core:
Can develop leaks over time, leading to coolant loss and fogging of the interior windshield.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its engineering prowess and diverse product lineup, including iconic rally cars and reliable everyday vehicles.
Model Evolution
Lancer Lineage:
The Lancer nameplate has been in continuous production since 1973, evolving through numerous generations and body styles, serving as a cornerstone of Mitsubishi's global passenger car strategy.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Japan, with significant assembly also occurring in other countries through joint ventures and subsidiaries.
Key Variants:
Sedan, Coupe (known as Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant FTO in some markets, though distinct models), Wagon. Performance variants include GSR, RS, and the legendary Lancer Evolution (though Evo is a distinct model, the base chassis is related).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Heritage:
The Lancer platform is historically significant due to the success of the Lancer Evolution models in the World Rally Championship (WRC), contributing to the model's sporty image.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports and JD Power reliability ratings for this specific generation vary; generally considered average to above average for its class and era, with proper maintenance being key.