Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrumentation, wipers, horn, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system wiring
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system, body sealing
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation
Repair:
Engine component repair and replacement (pistons, valves, timing belt/chain), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and alignment
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon problems, fault isolation techniques, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Detailed technical information for professional technicians and advanced DIYers, including full engine teardowns, transmission rebuilds, and complex electrical diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Digital Software (Searchable PDF or Proprietary Application)
2700 - 3000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.4 cu ft (351 Liters)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size Standard:
15 x 6.0 inches
Tire Size Standard:
P195/60R15
Wheel Size Optional Gts:
16 x 6.5 inches
Tire Size Optional Gts:
P205/50R16
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4 stars (for 2005 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4 stars (for 2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 stars (for 2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5 stars (for 2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:
4 stars (for 2005 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2005 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models
Traction Control:
Optional, often bundled with ABS or sport packages
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; rear 3-point seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with more speakers, cassette player in some base models.
Display:
Basic digital clock and radio display
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not typically standard, may be an aftermarket addition
Convenience
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional on most trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most trims except base models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe service, 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal service.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommend replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs: 75,000 miles (120,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.
Timing Belt Replacement:
60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (for 4G94 engine which uses a belt). Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Washer Fluid:
Water-based windshield washer fluid
Known Issues
Engine:
Timing belt tensioner issues (on 4G94), occasional oil consumption, catalytic converter failure due to rich fuel mixture.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues leading to shifting problems, clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Suspension:
Worn front struts and rear shocks, premature wear of control arm bushings and sway bar links.
Electrical:
Alternator failure, power window motor failure, ABS sensor issues.
Body:
Rust on wheel arches and rocker panels in rust-belt regions, interior trim creaks and rattles.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for rally-bred performance models like the Lancer Evolution.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Seventh generation Lancer (CY/CZ/CS platform)
Design Period:
2000-2007 (This generation saw significant updates and facelifts within this period).
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Mizushima Plant, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan; also assembled in various global locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Certification:
NHTSA 5-Star Side Impact Safety Rating
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated average to above average for reliability in its class for its model year, with specific powertrain variants noted for better reliability.