service MITSUBISHI CARISMA 2000 1.G Owners Manual

GENERAL INFORMATION
1–8
Installation of accessoriesEB24A-Ce
Before fitting any accessories, please con-
sult your authorized MITSUBISHI dealer.
(1) The installation of accessories, optional
parts, etc., should only be carried out
within the limits prescribed by law in
your country, and in accordance with
the guidelines and warnings contained
within the documents accompanying
this vehicle.
Only MITSUBISHI approved acces-
sories should be fitted to your vehicle.
(2) Improper installation of electrical parts
could cause fire, please refer to the
Modification/alterations to the electrical
or fuel systems section within this
owner’s handbook.
(3) When using a communication system
such as a cellular phone or a radio set
inside the vehicle, a separate external
antenna must be fitted. When a cellular
phone or a radio set is used by using an
internal antenna alone, it may interfere
with the vehicle’s electrical system and
adversely affect safe operation of the
vehicle.
(4) Tyres and wheels which do not meet
specifications must not be used.
Refer to the “Specifications” section for
information regarding wheel and tyre
sizes on page 10–11.(5) Do not fail to read all relative instructions
before first putting into service and prior
to the attachment or installation of ac-
cessories, parts or other modifications
to the vehicle!Important points!Due to the large number of accessory and
replacement parts of different manufacturers
in the market, it is not possible, not only for
MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES Europe B.V.,
but also an authorized MITSUBISHI dealer,
to check whether the attachment or installa-
tion of such parts affects the driving safety of
your MITSUBISHI-vehicle.
Even when such parts are officially autho-
rized, for example by a “general operators
permit” (an appraisal for the part) or through
the execution of the part in an officially ap-
proved manner of construction, or when a
single operation permit following the attach-
ment or installation of such parts, it cannot be
deduced from that alone, that the driving
safety of your vehicle has not been affected.Consider also that there basically exists no
liability on the part of the appraiser or the offi-
cial. Only in the case of parts (MITSUBISHI
original replacement or exchange parts as
well as MITSUBISHI accessories) that are
recommended and released by an autho-
rized MITSUBISHI dealer and that are at-
tached or installed by an authorized MIT-
SUBISHI dealer can you assume, that
optimal safety has been provided. The same
also pertains to modifications of MIT-
SUBISHI vehicles with respect to the pro-
duction specifications. For your own safety,
in such cases as well, you should only un-
dertake modifications according to the rec-
ommendations of an authorized MIT-
SUBISHI dealer.

SEATS AND SEATBELTS
3–37
WARNING
If any of the following conditions
occur, the SRS is not working proper-
ly and you should immediately have it
inspected by an authorized MITSUBI-
SHI dealer.

The SRS warning lamp does not
illuminate when you start the ve-
hicle.

The SRS warning lamp does not
go out after several seconds.

The SRS warning lamp illumi-
nates while driving.
SRS servicingEG29G-A
The entire SRS including air bag and pre-
tensioner seat belt must be inspected by an
authorized MITSUBISHI dealer after
10 years.
WARNING
(1) Any maintenance performed on
or near the components of the
SRS must be performed only by
an authorized MITSUBISHI
dealer. Do not permit anyone else
to do service, inspection, main-
tenance or repair on any SRS
components or wiring; similarly,
no part of the SRS should ever be
handled or disposed of by any-
one except an authorized MITSU-
BISHI dealer.
Improper work on the SRS com-
ponents or wiring could result in
inadvertent deployment of the air
bags or could render the SRS in-
operative; either situation could
result in serious injury.
WARNING
(2) Do not modify your steering
wheel, seat belt retractor or any
other SRS components. For
example, replacement of the
steering wheel or modifications
to the front bumper or body struc-
ture can adversely affect SRS
performance and lead to possible
injury.
(3) If your vehicle has received any
front-end damage, you should
have the SRS inspected by an
authorized MITSUBISHI dealer to
ensure it is in proper working
order.
(4) On vehicles with the side air
bags, do not modify your front
seats, centre pillar and centre
console.
It can adversely affect SRS per-
formance and lead to possible in-
jury.
Also, if you have found any tear or
open seam in the seat fabric at the
portion near the side air bag, have
the seat inspected at an author-
ized MITSUBISHI dealer.

STARTING AND DRIVING
5–5
5. When the gun stops automatically, re-
move the gun half the way in the tank
port. After the second automatic stop,
do not fill with fuel any more.
CAUTION
To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling,
do not ”top–off” the fuel tank.
6. To close, turn the fuel tank filler tube
cap slowly clockwise until you hear
clicking sounds, then gently push the
fuel tank filler door closed.
CAUTION
If you need replace the fuel tank filler
tube cap, use only the cap specified
for your model vehicle.
C18A001a
Catalytic converterEC18A-Jc
For ordinary use, there are no particular pre-
cautions except that of using unleaded pet-
rol.
The exhaust gas scavenging device with
catalytic converter is extremely efficient for
the reduction of noxious gases. The catalytic
converter is installed in the exhaust system.
It is important to keep the engine properly
tuned to ensure proper catalyst operation
and prevent possible catalyst damage.
CAUTION
Damage to the catalytic converter can
result if your vehicle is not kept in
proper operating condition. In the
event of an engine malfunction par-
ticularly involving engine misfire or
other apparent loss of performance
have your vehicle serviced promptly.
Continued operation of your vehicle
with a severe overheated condition
may result in possible damage to the
converter and vehicle.
WARNING
(1) As with any vehicle, do not park
or operate this vehicle in areas
where combustible materials
such as dry grass or leaves can
come into contact with a hot ex-
haust since a fire could occur.
(2) Undercoating paint should not be
applied to the catalytic converter.

STARTING AND DRIVING
5–6
The catalytic converter itself gets hot quickly,
and may be damaged if overheated. The fol-
lowing points should be noted in order to pre-
vent the ignition of unburned petrol within the
catalytic converter.
(1) In case of the petrol-powered vehicles,
use UNLEADED PETROL ONLY of the
type of recommended in “Fuel usage”
on page 5–3.
(2) Do not drive with an extremely low fuel
level; running out of fuel could cause
damage to the catalytic converter.
(3) Do not switch OFF the ignition switch
while driving.
(4) Do not try to start the engine by pushing
the vehicle. If the battery is weak or dis-
charged, use another battery to start the
engine.
(5) In case of the petrol-powered vehicles,
do not idle the engine with any spark
plug wires disconnected or removed
such as performing diagnostic tests.
(6) Do not idle the engine for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or mal-
functioning operating conditions.
(7) Do not race the engine when turning off
the ignition switch. This will prevent the
catalytic converter from being damaged
due to unburnt fuel.(8) Stop driving the vehicle if you think the
performance is noticeably low, or that
there is unnecessary engine rotation or
any other engine trouble, such as with
the ignition, etc.
If it is impractical to stop driving immedi-
ately, reduce the speed and drive for
only a short time. Have an inspection
made by your nearest authorized MIT-
SUBISHI dealer as soon as possible.
(9) In unusual situations involving grossly
malfunctioning engine operation, a
burnt smell may indicate severe and ab-
normal catalyst overheating.
If this occurs, the vehicle should be
stopped in a safe place, the engine
switched off and the vehicle allowed to
cool. Once the engine is cool, a service,
including a tune-up to manufacturer’s
specifications, should be obtained im-
mediately.Economical drivingEC19ABC
For economical driving, there are some
technical requirements that have to be met.
The prerequisite for low fuel consumption is
a properly adjusted engine. In order to
achieve longer life of the vehicle and the
most economical operation, have the vehicle
serviced by an authorized MITSUBISHI
dealer at regular intervals in accordance with
the service standards.
Fuel economy and generation of exhaust
gas and noise are highly influenced by per-
sonal driving habits as well as the particular
operating conditions. The following points
should be observed in order to minimize
wear of brakes, tyres and engine as well as
to reduce environmental pollution.
(1)Starting
Avoid rapid acceleration and sudden
starts; such operation will result in
higher fuel consumption.
(2)Shifting
Shift only at an appropriate speed and
engine speed. Always use the highest
gear possible.

STARTING AND DRIVING
5–25
WaitingEI04G-Ee
For short waiting periods, such as at traffic
lights, the vehicle can be left in gear and held
stationary with the service brake.
For longer waiting periods with the engine
running, the selector lever should be placed
in the “N” (NEUTRAL) position.
CAUTION
(1)Never hold the vehicle stationary
while in gear on a hill with the accel-
erator, always apply the parking
brake and/or service brake.
(2)Unexpected acceleration may occur
if the selector lever is in a position
other than “P” (PARK) or “N” (NEU-
TRAL).
Prior to moving off after having
stopped the vehicle, make sure that
the selector lever is in “D” (DRIVE)
or “Sports mode” position.
ParkingEI04H-Be
To park the vehicle, first bring it to a complete
stop, fully engage the parking brake and
then move the selector lever to the “P”
(PARK) position.
If you are going to leave the vehicle unat-
tended, always switch off the engine and re-
move the ignition key.
NOTE
On a slope, be sure to apply the parking
brake before moving the selector lever to the
“P” (PARK) position. If you move the selector
lever to the “P” (PARK) position without first
applying the parking brake, a stronger than
normal resistance force may be encoun-
tered. In this situation, move the selector
lever strongly when you next wish to drive.
I27A052a
Parking brakeEI07A-Jn
To park the vehicle, first bring it to a complete
stop, fully engage the parking brake and
then move the gear shift lever to 1st (on an
uphill) or Reverse (on a downhill) position, for
vehicles with a manual transmission or set
the selector lever to “P” (PARK) position on
automatic transmission vehicles.
To apply
1-Pull the lever up without pushing the
button at the end of the hand grip.

STARTING AND DRIVING
5–27
Braking EI23AAFc
All the parts of the brake system are critical
to safety. Have the vehicle serviced by an
authorized MITSUBISHI dealer at regular
intervals according to the service booklet.
Brake system
(1)The service brake is divided into two
brake circuits so that when one brake
circuit fails, the other is available to
stop the vehicle. If this occurs, howev-
er, the brake pedal must be depressed
further than usual; stop driving as
soon as possible and have the brake
system repaired at the nearest autho-
rized MITSUBISHI dealer.
(2)The brake boosting force is lost after
the brake pedal is depressed once or
twice while the engine is off. If this oc-
curs, the brake will require greater
force than usual. This is especially im-
portant when the vehicle is being
towed.
Warning lamp
The brake warning lamp lets you know if
your brake system is working properly.
Read “Brake warning lamp” on page 4–8 .
When brakes are wet
Check the brake system while driving at a
low speed immediately after starting, es-
pecially when the brakes are wet, to con-
firm they work normally.
A film of water can form on the brake discs
and prevent normal functioning after driv-
ing in heavy rain or through large puddles,
or after the vehicle is washed. If this oc-
curs, dry the brakes out by driving slowly
while lightly depressing the brake pedal.
When driving downhill
It is important to take advantage of the en-
gine braking by shifting to a lower gear
while driving on steep downhill roads in or-
der to prevent the brakes from overheat-
ing.
Brake pads
(1)With new brake pads, avoid where
possible sudden full application of the
brakes for the first 200 km of driving.
(2)The disc brakes are provided with a
warning device which emits a shriek-
ing metallic sound while braking if the
brake pads have reached their limit. If
you hear this sound, have the brake
pads replaced by your MITSUBISHI
dealer.
CAUTION
(1) Do not leave any objects or place
a thick floor mat around the brake
pedal; doing so could prevent the
full pedal stroke that would be
necessary in an emergency.
Make sure that the pedal can be
operated freely at all times.
(2) Avoid driving habits that cause
heavy braking and never “ride”
the brakes by resting your foot on
the brake pedal while driving.
It causes brake overheating and
fade.

FOR PLEASANT DRIVING
6–6
H11A344d
Radio data system (RDS)EH30C-Ga1-PWR (On-off) switch
2-TP (Traffic program) button
3-PTY (Program type) button
4-U/M/L (UKW/MW/LW selection) but-
ton
5-TUNE/SEEK (Down-step/Down-
seek) button
6-TUNE/SEEK (Up-step/Up-seek) but-
ton
7-Memory select buttons
8-Frequency display window
9-RDS (Radio data system) indicator
10 - REG (Regional program) indicator
11-TP (Traffic program identification) indi-
cator
12 - PTY (Program type) indicator
13 - AF (Alternative frequencies) indicatorRDS uses PI (program identification) signal
and AF (alternative frequency) list trans-
mitted in addition to the normal UKW broad-
casting programs, and picks up the UKW
stations that are transmitting the same pro-
gram from the EON (enhanced other net-
work) and automatically tunes to the station
with the strongest signal intensity.
Therefore, you can continue listening to one
program in, for example, a long distance
driving without retuning to other station trans-
mitting the same program when you are
leaving the service area of the currently re-
ceiving station.
The RDS radio also features the limited re-
ception of the program types, the break-in re-
ception of the traffic announcement andemergency broadcast, and the limited/un-
limited reception of the regional programs.

FOR PLEASANT DRIVING
6–19
H11A345d
Radio data system (RDS)EH30C-Ga1-PWR (On-off) switch
2-TP (Traffic program) button
3-PTY (Program type) button
4-U/M/L (UKW/MW/LW selection) but-
ton
5-TUNE/SEEK (Down-step/Down-
seek) button
6-TUNE/SEEK (Up-step/Up-seek) but-
ton
7-Memory select buttons
8-Frequency display window
9-RDS (Radio data system) indicator
10 - REG (Regional program) indicator
11-TP (Traffic program identification) indi-
cator
12 - PTY (Program type) indicator
13 - AF (Alternative frequencies) indicatorRDS uses PI (program identification) signal
and AF (alternative frequency) list trans-
mitted in addition to the normal UKW broad-
casting programs, and picks up the UKW
stations that are transmitting the same pro-
gram from the EON (enhanced other net-
work) and automatically tunes to the station
with the strongest signal intensity.
Therefore, you can continue listening to one
program in, for example, a long distance
driving without retuning to other station trans-
mitting the same program when you are
leaving the service area of the currently re-
ceiving station.
The RDS radio also features the limited re-
ception of the program types, the break-in re-
ception of the traffic announcement andemergency broadcast, and the limited/un-
limited reception of the regional programs.

MAINTENANCE
9–2
EM01A -Fh
Adequate care of your vehicle at regular in-
tervals serves to preserve the value and ap-
pearance as long as possible.
Some maintenance items can be carried out
by the owner (do it yourself), while others
should be carried out by an authorized MIT-
SUBISHI dealer (periodic inspection and
maintenance). This section describes only
those items which can be carried out by the
owner. In the event a malfunction or other
problem is discovered, have it corrected by
an authorized MITSUBISHI dealer. This sec-
tion contains information on inspection main-
tenance procedures that you can do your-
self, if you wish to do so. Follow the
instructions and cautions for each of the va-
rious procedures.
WARNING
(1)When checking or servicing the in-
side of the engine compartment,
make sure the engine is switched
off and has had a chance to cool
down.
(2)If it is necessary to do work in the
engine compartment with the en-
gine running, be especially careful
that your clothing, hair, etc., does
not become caught by the fan,
drive belts or other moving parts.
WARNING
(3) The fan may turn on automati-
cally even if the engine is not run-
ning; turn the ignition key tothe
“LOCK” position and remove the
key to ensure safety while you
work in the engine compartment.
(4) Do not smoke, cause sparks or
allow open flames around fuel or
battery. The fumes are flammable.
(5) Be extremely cautious when
working around the battery. It
contains poisonous and corros-
ive sulphuric acid.
(6) Do not get under your vehicle
with just the body jack support-
ing it. Always use automotive
jack stands.
(7) Improper handling of compo-
nents and materials used in the
vehicle can endanger your per-
sonal safety.
Consult an authorized MITSUBI-
SHI dealer for necessary informa-
tion.
Petrol-powered vehicles (1300 models)
M03A088a
Engine oil
EM03A–Id
The engine oil used has a significant effect
on the engine’s performance, service life and
startability. Be sure to use oil of the recom-
mended quality and appropriate viscosity.
All engines consume a certain amount of oil
during normal operation (See note below).
Therefore, it is important to check the oil at
regular intervals or before starting a long
journey.

MAINTENANCE
9–3
Petrol-powered vehicles (1600, 1800 models)
M03A027a
This check must be carried out with the ve-
hicle on a flat level surface with the engine at
normal operating temperature, but NOT run-
ning. If the engine has been running, wait for
a few minutes to allow the engine oil to return
to the oil pan to ensure an accurate
measurement.
Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean
cloth, re - insert the dipstick as far as it will go.
Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.
This should always be within the range as
indicated.
If the oil level is below the specified limit, re-
move the filler cap and add oil. Then recheck
the level. When satisfied that the level is cor-
rect, refit the oil filler cap making sure that it
is securely fitted.
Diesel-powered vehicle
M03A090a
Use only the recommended oils with an API
or ACEA classification as specified in this
manual.
NOTE
(1)Engine oil consumption is greatly in-
fluenced by payload, engine speed,
etc. It may reach 1.0 lit./1,000 km de-
pending on style of driving.
(2) The engine oil will deteriorate rapidly if
the vehicle is subjected to severe condi-
tions (for example, repeated operation
on rough roads, in mountainous re-
gions, on roads with many uphill and
downhill gradients, or over short dis-
tances). Consequently, the oil will re-
quire earlier replacement.
(3) For handling of used engine oils, refer to
page
1–11.
Petrol-powered vehicles
M03B037a
Selection of engine oil
(petrol-powered vehicle)
EM03B-Of
(1) Select engine oil of the proper SAE vis-
cosity number according to the atmos-
pheric temperature.
For 0W-30, 5W-30, 0W-40 and 5W-40
viscosity grade, use only ACEA A3
classification.
(2) Use engine oil conforming to the follow-
ing classification:

ACEA classification:
“For service A1, A2 or A3”

API classification:
“FOR SERVICE SG” or higher
NOTE
Use of additives is not recommended since
they may reduce the effectiveness of addi-
tives already included in the engine oil. It
may result in failure of the mechanical as-
sembly.