Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault finding procedures
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Comprehensive (typically 2000+ pages for full factory service manuals of this era, though not explicitly stated in product info, this is standard for a complete factory service manual).
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Refrigerant handling (with safety warnings), component testing and replacement.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Extremely high. Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Detail Level:
Factory level detail, including step-by-step instructions, illustrations, diagrams, torque specifications, and tolerances.
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.7 US Quarts) with filter change
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG, SH, SJ or higher; ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4; Viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A for the Evolution VIII in 2003.
Features
Drivetrain Management:
Active Center Differential (ACD) with driver-selectable modes (Tarmac, Gravel, Snow), Super Active Yaw Control (AYC) for rear differential torque vectoring.
Fluid Capacity
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 Liters (MTF)
Fluid Specification
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5; recommended: Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil (or equivalent high-quality synthetic gear oil)
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 Liters
Transfer Case Fluid Type
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5; recommended: Mitsubishi DiaQueen LSD Gear Oil (or equivalent high-quality synthetic gear oil)
Approx. 1,450 - 1,500 kg (3,197 - 3,307 lbs), depending on market and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1,900 kg (4,189 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not specified, generally not recommended for towing due to performance nature.
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 220 Liters (7.8 cubic feet)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Information for the 2003 model year may vary by region. In the US, it was not a high-volume seller and specific NHTSA ratings might not be readily available. Typically designed with safety in mind for its class.
Active Features
Active Safety:
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ACD, AYC
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, side-impact door beams, reinforced chassis and roll cage elements.
Braking System
Brake System Description:
High-performance Brembo braking system with ABS and EBD.
Limited by modern standards. Focus on mechanical systems like ACD and AYC for vehicle dynamics.
Performance Electronics
Performance Electronics:
Engine control unit (ECU) with programmable parameters (though access for tuning varies), ACD/AYC control modules.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from factory).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially under spirited driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe service intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 45,000 miles (48,000 - 72,000 km) for performance plugs, consult manual for exact type and interval.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. AYC fluid may require more frequent changes if performance driving is common.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi coolant type (e.g., DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (high-performance synthetic brake fluid recommended for spirited driving).
Known Issues
Engine Wear:
Ring land failure on pistons (especially if poorly maintained or heavily modified), turbocharger wear, valve stem seals drying out leading to oil consumption.
Ayc System:
Potential for AYC pump failure, sensor issues, or fluid leaks. Requires specialized knowledge and fluid.
Clutch:
Clutch wear is accelerated with aggressive driving. Dual-mass flywheel can also be a point of failure.
Acd System:
Can be sensitive to fluid contamination or electrical faults.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi Motors has a strong history in motorsport, particularly rallying, with the Lancer Evolution being its flagship performance model.
Model Evolution
Evolution Lineage:
The 2003 model represents the Evolution VIII (CT9A), an evolution of the Evo VII, featuring technological advancements and styling updates. It preceded the Evolution IX.
Production
Production Period:
The Evolution VIII was produced from early 2003 to late 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Motorsport Impact
Motorsport Connection:
The Lancer Evolution was developed for WRC homologation and has achieved significant success in various forms of motorsport worldwide.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently lauded by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and accessible AWD technology.
Motorsport Acclaim
Motorsport Achievements:
Multiple WRC manufacturer and driver championships, successful in global rally and track racing series.
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