📚 Vehicle Manual Information

1998 Mitsubishi Space Star Wokshop Manual

🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Space Star

Year:

1998

Model Code:

This information is not explicitly provided but likely refers to the 'DG' series chassis code for this generation.

Body Style:

Compact MPV / Minivan

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mitsubishi Space Star (also known as Mitsubishi Space Wagon or Mitsubishi Nimbus in some markets) was positioned as a practical and versatile compact MPV, competing with vehicles like the Nissan Prairie, Toyota Picnic, and Renault Scénic. It offered flexible seating and ample interior space for its size.

Competitive Analysis:

At its introduction, the Space Star aimed to capture families seeking a more car-like driving experience than traditional vans, with a focus on modular interior configurations and accessible pricing. Its Japanese engineering emphasized reliability and functionality.

Key Features:

Sliding rear doors (on some variants), flexible seating arrangements (often 2+2+2 or 2+3+2), relatively compact exterior dimensions for urban maneuverability, and a reputation for robust mechanicals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive coverage for all mechanical, electrical, and body systems of the 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for a full workshop manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a digital format (PDF), potentially searchable with high-resolution diagrams.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical systems (timing belts, pistons, crankshaft, cylinder heads, etc.), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, repair, troubleshooting, clutch operation, drivetrain components (CV joints, driveshafts).

Brakes:

Brake system overhaul (discs, drums, calipers, master cylinder), ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), alignment specifications.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system schematics, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, central locking, instrument cluster, diagnosis of electrical faults.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustment, climate control system (HVAC).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement intervals and procedures, fluid level checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code explanations (OBD-I/OBD-II if applicable).

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, and suspension component replacement.

Diagnostics:

Specific diagnostic procedures for engine management, emissions, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and other electronic control units (ECUs).

Depth:

Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic test procedures, and component testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text. Suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format)

Searchability:

Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Likely the 4G9 family of engines, commonly the 4G93 (1.8L SOHC/DOHC) or potentially the 4G63 (2.0L DOHC).

Engine Displacement:

1.8 liters (1834 cc) and potentially 2.0 liters (1997 cc)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC or DOHC

Horsepower:

Approximately 115-135 hp for the 1.8L and 135-150 hp for the 2.0L, depending on specific engine variant and market.

Torque:

Around 160-175 Nm for the 1.8L and 175-190 Nm for the 2.0L.

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check manual for precise recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Typically 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 6-7 years, whichever comes first. Crucial due to interference engine design.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diamond SP-II or SP-III (Mitsubishi's proprietary ATF). Always use specified fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4330 mm (170.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2615 mm (103.0 in)

Seating Capacity:

6 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Volume:

Variable due to folding rear seats; substantial for its class.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs) depending on configuration and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for this model year and vehicle type are difficult to find for non-US market vehicles. Generally, vehicles of this era had mixed results in frontal impacts.

ABS:

Available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Less common on this model year, but potentially available on some higher-specification variants.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags were standard or optional, depending on market and trim.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX or LATCH system compatibility may be present, depending on market regulations and specific model build.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory-installed radio with cassette player and AM/FM tuner. Optional CD player might have been available. Sound quality is typical for the era.

Speaker System:

Standard 4-6 speaker setup.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited. Cruise control was often optional. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were available.

Connectivity Options:

Basic, with optional power accessories (windows, locks). No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports.

Climate Control System:

Manual HVAC system with fan speed and temperature controls. May have recirculation mode.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Use synthetic oil for extended intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km), or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped plugs: 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Standard plugs: 30,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact type and interval.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Use specified Mitsubishi power steering fluid or Dexron III ATF.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.0-6.5 liters (6.3-6.9 quarts).

Known Issues:

Potential issues include timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (critical, as it's an interference engine), minor electrical gremlins, wear in suspension bushings, and automatic transmission shift quality degradation over time. Radiator leaks can also occur.

Timing Belt Issue:

Crucial to monitor and replace timing belt and tensioner according to schedule to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Evaporative Emissions Control System:

Can sometimes experience issues with EVAP system components leading to check engine lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history of automotive manufacturing, known for robust engineering, particularly in SUVs and performance vehicles, with a significant presence in rally racing.

Model Evolution:

The Space Star nameplate was used by Mitsubishi for different vehicles globally. This 1998 model represents a specific generation of their compact MPV offering, evolving from earlier minivan concepts.

Production Period:

This generation of the Space Star was produced roughly from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other Mitsubishi global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Specific awards for the 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star are not prominently documented in major automotive award databases. Its strengths were typically in practicality and value rather than critical acclaim for design or performance.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability is generally considered average for its class and era. Maintenance and adherence to service schedules are key to longevity. J.D. Power or Consumer Reports data for this specific model year and region may vary.