Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer-Radiator

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Radiator — What it Does and How to Look After It

A radiator is absolutely used on the 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. Mitsubishi’s 2002–2007 Lancer/CH factory service manual (Cooling System section), the OEM ASA/CAPS parts catalogue, and common repair guides such as the Haynes Mitsubishi Lancer 2002–2011 manual all show a front-mounted aluminium radiator on every 2004 Lancer petrol variant (4G93/4G94/4G69). Automatic models use a radiator with an integrated transmission oil cooler.

On this Lancer, the radiator’s job is to shed engine heat so it can keep pulling strong in Aussie and Kiwi conditions. Coolant flows through the alloy core, air passes through the fins, and the thermo fans kick in when needed. The thermostat regulates flow, and on autos the in-tank cooler keeps the transmission fluid happy too. It’s a simple, tough setup that works quietly under the bonnet to prevent overheating and head-gasket dramas.

Good servicing makes a big difference. Use a quality ethylene glycol coolant mixed 50/50 with demineralised water (or the correct pre-mix). Many 2004 cars originally ran green long‑life coolant with 2–4 year/40,000–60,000 km change intervals, later Mitsubishi Super Long Life (blue) can go longer, but only if the system is spotless and compatible. Typical fill is about 6 litres on 2.0L models, but always check the exact spec for the engine and radiator fitted.

• Inspect the radiator cap (about 1.1 bar), upper/lower hoses, and clamps at each service.
• Look for crusty residue, damp tanks, or bent fins. Any milkshake in the auto trans fluid points to a failed in-radiator cooler—stop driving and remedy immediately.
• When replacing the radiator, flush the block and heater core, fit new hoses and a new cap, and bleed the system with the heater on to purge air.
• Verify fan operation and that the temp gauge sits steady once warm. Dispose of old coolant responsibly.

Choosing a replacement? Match the core size, inlet/outlet positions, and (for autos) the cooler fittings. A fresh thermostat and, if due, a water pump are smart add-ons while the system is open. With the right coolant and routine checks, a Lancer radiator will clock plenty of kilometres without fuss.

Popular questions

What coolant does a 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer use, and how much?
Most 2004 Lancers are happy on a quality ethylene glycol, silicate‑free coolant at 50/50 with demineralised water. Capacity is roughly 6 litres on common 2.0L setups, though it varies by engine and radiator. Don’t mix coolant types, if switching to long‑life (blue), fully flush first and confirm compatibility.

How often should the coolant be changed?
If running the older green long‑life coolant, plan on about every 2–4 years or 40,000–60,000 km. If the system is on Mitsubishi Super Long Life (blue), intervals can be longer, but only when the correct coolant is used throughout and the system is clean. Always follow the service manual or the coolant manufacturer’s guidance.

Is the automatic radiator different from the manual one?
Yes. Auto Lancers use a radiator with an integrated transmission oil cooler. When ordering, make sure the unit includes the cooler ports and the correct fittings. If a radiator has failed internally, flush or replace the trans cooler circuit and refresh the transmission fluid to protect the gearbox.