2009 MITSUBISHI ASX ECO mode

Electronically controlled 4WD
system* E00604900280
The
electronically controlled 4WD system is a 4-
wheel drive system that allows one of three drive
modes to be selected with a dial, in accordance
with the driving conditions.

The following drive modes are available. Drive mode Function
2WD This mode is for economical
driving on normal dry roads
and motorway.
Driving in front-wheel drive.
4WD AUTO The default mode.
This mode is for automatical-
ly controlling the distribution
of driving torque to all four
wheels according to the driv-
ing conditions.
4WD LOCK This mode is for driving in
slippery conditions such as
on snow-covered roads or
sand.
The large amount of driving
torque that is applied to the
rear tyres enables getting out
of slippery areas and power-
ful driving is possible across
all ranges.4-wheel drive operation requires special driving
skills.
Carefully

read the “4-wheel drive operation” on
page 4-31 and take care to drive safely. Drive mode-selector
The

drive mode can be switched by turning the dial
while the ignition switch or the operation mode is
in ON. 1- 2WD
2-

4WD AUTO
3- 4WD LOCK
The drive mode is displayed as an interrupt display
on the information screen in the multi-information
display when the drive mode is switched.
After a few seconds, the information screen returns
from the drive mode display to the previous screen. Drive mode Display
2WD 4WD AUTO
4WD LOCK
CAUTION
l
Do not operate the drive mode-selector
with the front wheels spinning on a
snowy road or in similar conditions. The
vehicle could lunge in an unexpected di-
rection.
l Driving on dry, paved roads in “4WD
LOCK” mode causes increased fuel con-
sumption and noise.
l Do not drive with the tyres spinning in
“2WD” mode.
Doing so could generate heat in the drive-
system components.
NOTE l The

drive mode can be switched while driv-
ing or stopped.
Drive mode indicator
Type 1 Starting and driving
4-29 4

Type 2
Normally the indicator illuminates when the igni-
tion
switch is turned to the “ON” position or the op-
eration mode is put in ON, and then the drive mode
is displayed a few seconds after the engine is started. Drive mode Drive mode indicator
“4WD” indica-
tor “LOCK” indi-
cator
2WD OFF OFF
4WD AUTO ON OFF
4WD LOCK ON ON CAUTION
l
If
the selected drive mode indicator is
blinking, the vehicle switches automatical-
ly to front-wheel drive in order to protect
the drive-system components, and drive
mode selection is no longer possible with
the drive mode-selector.
The warning display is also displayed in
the information screen in the multi-infor-
mation display.
Reduce speed, and if the indicator goes
out after driving a while, resume driving
as before. If the indicator continues blink-
ing for more than about 5 minutes, have
the vehicle inspected at a MITSUBISHI
MOTORS Authorized Service Point.
Type 1 Type 2
CAUTION
l
If
the warning display on the information
screen in the multi-information display, a
problem has occurred with the electroni-
cally controlled 4WD system and the safe-
ty device has activated. Have an inspec-
tion made by a MITSUBISHI MOTORS
Authorized Service Point. Type 1 Type 2
CAUTION
l
Always
use tyres of the same size, same
type, and same brand, and which have no
wear differences. Using tyres that differ
in size, type, brand, or wear amount may
activate the protection of the drive-sys-
tem components, causing the drive mode
in “4WD AUTO” mode to lock or the
“4WD” and “LOCK” indicators to blink
alternately. Starting and driving
4-30
4

4-wheel drive operation
E00606600887
Your
vehicle has been designed primarily for use
on paved roads.
But its unique 4-wheel drive system allows you to
occasionally travel on unpaved roads, to camp-
grounds, picnic sites, and similar locations.
Not only does this ensure better handling on dry,
paved roads but also permits better traction when
driving on slippery, wet or snow-covered roads and
when moving out of mud.
But it is not suitable for heavy off road use or tow-
ing in rough conditions.
It is particularly important to note that 4-wheel
drive may not give sufficient hill climbing ability
and engine braking on steep slopes. You should try
to avoid driving on steep slopes.
Also, you must exercise caution when driving on
sand and mud and when driving through water be-
cause sufficient traction may not be available in cer-
tain circumstances.
Please avoid driving the vehicle through areas
where the tyres may get stuck in deep sand or mud. WARNING
l Do
not over-rely on the 4-wheel drive ve-
hicles. Even 4-wheel drive vehicles have
limits to the system and ability to main-
tain control and traction. Reckless driv-
ing may lead to accidents. Always drive
carefully, taking account of the road con-
ditions.
l Improperly operating this vehicle on or
off-paved roads can cause an accident or
rollover in which you and your passen-
gers could be seriously injured or killed. WARNING
• Follow
all instructions and guidelines in the owner’s manual.
• Keep your speed low and do not drive faster than conditions allow you to.
NOTE l Driving

on rough roads can be hard on a ve-
hicle. Before you leave paved roads, be sure
all scheduled maintenance and service has
been done, and that you have inspected your
vehicle. Pay special attention to the condi-
tion of the tyres, and check the tyre pressures.
l MITSUBISHI MOTORS is not responsible
to the operator for any damage or injury
caused or liability incurred by improper and
negligent operation of a vehicle. All techni-
ques of vehicle operation depend on the skill
and experience of the operator and other par-
ticipating parties. Any deviation from the rec-
ommended operating instructions above is at
their own risk.
l Note that the stopping distance required of a
4-wheel drive vehicle differs very little from
that of a 2-wheel drive vehicle. When driv-
ing on a snow-covered road or a slippery,
muddy surface, make sure that you keep a suf-
ficient distance between your vehicle and the
one ahead of you.
l The driving posture should be more upright;
adjust the seat to a good position for easy
steering and pedal operation. Be sure to wear
the seat belt. l
After
driving on rough roads, check each
part of the vehicle and wash it thoroughly
with water. Refer to the “Inspection and main-
tenance following rough road operation” sec-
tion and “Maintenance” section. CAUTION
l
Setting
the drive mode-selector to “4WD
LOCK” to drive on dry paved road will
increase fuel consumption, with possible
noise generation.
Turning sharp corners
When
turning a sharp corner in “4WD LOCK” po-
sition at low speed, a slight difference in steering
may be experienced similar to as if the brakes were
applied. This is called tight corner braking and re-
sults from each of the 4 tyres being at a different
distance from the corner. The phenomenon is typi-
cal of 4-wheel drive vehicles. If this occurs, either
straighten out the steering wheel, or change to
“2WD” or “4WD AUTO” mode.
On snowy or icy roads
Set the drive mode-selector to “4WD AUTO” or
“4WD LOCK” in accordance with the road condi-
tions, and then gradually depress the accelerator ped-
al for a smooth start.
NOTE
l The use of snow tyres is recommended.
l Maintain a safe distance between vehicles,
avoid sudden braking, and use engine brak-
ing (downshifting). Starting and driving
4-31 4

CAUTION
l
Avoid sudden braking, sudden accelera-
tion and sharp turning. Skidding occurs
and control of the vehicle could be lost.
Driving on sandy or muddy roads
Set
the drive mode-selector to “4WD LOCK” and
then gradually depress the accelerator pedal for a
smooth start. Keep the pressure on the accelerator
pedal as constant as possible, and drive at low speed. CAUTION
l
Do
not force the vehicle or drive reckless-
ly on sandy surfaces. In comparison with
normal road surfaces, the engine and oth-
er drive-system components are put un-
der excessive strain when driving on such
a surface. This could lead to accidents.
l If the engine coolant temperature display flashes on the information screen in
the
multi-information display or the en-
gine power drops suddenly while the vehi-
cle is being driven, park your vehicle im-
mediately in a safe place.
Refer to “Engine overheating” on page
6-04 for details and take the required meas-
ures. WARNING
l When attempting to rock your vehicle out
of

a stuck position, be sure that the area
around the vehicle is clear of people and
physical objects. The rocking motion may
cause the vehicle to suddenly launch for-
ward or backward, causing injury or dam-
age to nearby people or objects.
NOTE l Avoid

sudden braking, sudden acceleration
and sharp turning; such operations could re-
sult in the vehicle becoming stuck.
l If the vehicle becomes stuck in sandy or mud-
dy roads, it can often be moved with a rock-
ing motion. Move the gearshift lever alter-
nately between the 1 st
and “R” (Reverse) po-
sitions (M/T), the “D” (DRIVE) and “R” (RE-
VERSE) positions (CVT), while pressing
lightly on the accelerator pedal.
l Driving on rough roads can cause rust on the
vehicle; wash the vehicle thoroughly as soon
as possible after such use.
Climbing/descending sharp grades
Your vehicle may not provide sufficient hill climb-
ing ability and engine braking on steep slopes.
Avoid driving on steep slopes even though the vehi-
cle is a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Driving through water E00618900076
If the electrical circuits become wet, further opera-
tion

of the vehicle will be impossible; therefore,
avoid driving through water unless absolutely nec-
essary. If driving through water is unavoidable, use
the following procedure:
Check

the depth of the water and the terrain before
attempting to drive through it. Drive slowly to
avoid creating excessive water splashing. CAUTION
l
Never
drive through water that is deep
enough to cover wheel hubs, axles or ex-
haust pipe. Do not change the gearshift
lever position (M/T) or the selector lever
position (CVT) while driving through wa-
ter.
Frequent driving through water can ad-
versely affect the life span of the vehicle;
we recommend you to take the necessary
measures to prepare, inspect, and repair
the vehicle.
l After driving through water, apply the
brakes to be sure they are functioning
properly. If the brakes are wet and not
functioning properly, dry them out by
driving slowly while lightly depressing
the brake pedal. Inspect each part of the
vehicle carefully. Starting and driving
4-32
4

CAUTION
l
Do not tow 4-wheel drive vehicles with
the front or rear wheels on the ground
(Type A or Type B) as illustrated. This
could result in damage to the drivetrain,
or unstable towing.
If you tow 4-wheel drive vehicles, use
Type C or Type D equipment.
l Even in “2WD” drive mode, the vehicle
cannot be towed with the front or the
rear wheels on the ground.
Jacking up a 4-wheel drive vehicle WARNING
l Do
not crank the engine while the vehicle
is jacked up.
The tyre on the ground may turn and the
vehicle may roll off the jack.
Clutch operation
Quick
or slight clutch engagement made while the
engine is running at high speed will cause damage
to the clutch and transmission because the tractive
force is very great.
Operate the pedal slowly and positively. Braking
E00607001784
All

the parts of the brake system are critical to safe-
ty. We recommend you to have the vehicle
checked at regular intervals according to the serv-
ice booklet. CAUTION
l
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.
Brake system
The
service brake is divided into two brake cir-
cuits. And your vehicle is equipped with power
brakes. If one brake circuit fails, the other is availa-
ble to stop the vehicle. If you should lose the pow-
er assist for some reason, the brakes will still work.
In these situations, even if the brake pedal moves
down to the very end of its possible stroke or re-
sists being depressed, keep depressing the brake ped-
al down harder and further than usual; stop driving
as soon as possible and have the brake system re-
paired. WARNING
l Do
not turn off the engine while your ve-
hicle is in motion. If you turn off the en-
gine while driving, the power assistance
for the braking system will stop working
and your brakes will not work effectively. WARNING
l If
the power assist is lost or if either
brake hydraulic system stops working
properly, have your vehicle checked im-
mediately.
Warning display
The
brake warning lamp illuminates to indicate a
fault in the braking system. A warning is also dis-
played on the multi-information display. Refer to
“Brake warning lamp” on page 3-41 and “Brake
warning display” on page 3-42.
When brakes are wet
Check the brake system while driving at a low
speed immediately after starting, especially when
the brakes are wet, to confirm they work normally.
A film of water can be formed on the brake discs
and prevent normal braking after driving in heavy
rain or through large puddles, or after the vehicle is
washed. If this occurs, dry the brakes out by driv-
ing slowly while lightly depressing the brake pedal.
When driving downhill
It is important to take advantage of the engine brak-
ing by shifting to a lower shift position while driv-
ing on steep downhill roads in order to prevent the
brakes from overheating. Starting and driving
4-34
4

WARNING
l Do not leave any objects near the brake
pedal or let a floor mat slide under it; do-
ing 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. Make sure the floor
mat is securely held in place.
Brake pad l Avoid hard braking situations.
New

brakes need to be broken-in by moder-
ate use for the first 200 km (124 miles).
l The disc brakes are provided with a warning
device which emits a shrieking metallic
sound while braking if the brake pads have
reached their wear limit. If you hear this
sound, have the brake pads replaced immedi-
ately. WARNING
l Driving
with worn brake pads will make
it harder to stop, and can cause an acci-
dent. Hill start assist*
E00628000155
The

hill start assist makes it easy to start off on a
steep uphill slope by preventing the vehicle from
moving backwards. It keeps the braking force for
about 2 seconds when you move your foot from the
brake pedal to the accelerator pedal. CAUTION
l
Do
not overly rely on the hill start assist
to prevent backwards movement of the ve-
hicle. Under certain circumstances, even
when hill start assist is activated, the vehi-
cle may move backwards if the brake ped-
al is not sufficiently depressed, if the vehi-
cle is heavily loaded, or if the road is very
steep or slippery.
l The hill start assist is not designed to
keep the vehicle stopped in place on up-
hill slopes for more than 2 seconds.
l When facing uphill, do not rely on using
the hill start assist to maintain a stopped
position as an alternative to depressing
the brake pedal.
Doing so could result in an accident.
l Do not perform the following operation
while the hill start assist is operating.
[Except for vehicles equipped with key-
less operation system]
Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”
or “ACC” position.
[Vehicles equipped with keyless operation
system]
Put the operation mode in OFF or ACC.
The hill start assist could stop operating,
which could result in an accident. To operate
E00628100172
1. Stop

the vehicle completely using the brake
pedal.
2. On vehicles equipped with M/T, place the
gearshift lever into the 1 st
position.
On vehicles equipped with CVT, place the se-
lector lever into the “D” position.
NOTE l When reversing on an uphill slope, place the
gearshift lever or the selector lever into the
“R” position.
3. Release the brake pedal and the hill start as- sist will maintain the braking force applied
while stopping for approximately 2 seconds.
4. Depress the accelerator pedal and the hill start assist gradually will decrease the brak-
ing force as the vehicle starts moving.
NOTE l The hill start assist is activated when all of
the following conditions are met.
• The engine is running.(The hill start assist will not be activated
while the engine is starting or immediate-
ly after the engine is started.) Starting and driving
4-35 4

• On vehicles equipped with M/T, the gear-
shift lever is in the following position.
[When starting an uphill slope forwards.]
The
gearshift lever is in any position oth-
er than “R”.
(The hill start assist will operate, even if
the gearshift lever is in the “N” position.)
[When starting an uphill slope backwards.]
The gearshift lever is in the “R” position.
(The hill start assist will not operate
when the gearshift lever is in the “N” po-
sition.)
• On vehicles equipped with CVT, the se- lector lever is in any position other than
“P” or “N”.
• The vehicle is completely stationary, with the brake pedal depressed.
• The parking brake is released.
l The hill start assist will not operate if the ac-
celerator pedal is depressed before the brake
pedal is released.
l The hill start assist also operates when revers-
ing on an uphill slope.
Warning display E00628200199
If an abnormal condition occurs in the system, the
following display/indicator will turn on. -
ASC indicator
Warning display type 1 Warning display type 2
NOTE
l The

combination of items shown on the dis-
play varies depending on the vehicle model. CAUTION
l
If
the warning is displayed, the hill start
assist will not operate. Start off carefully.
l Park your vehicle in a safe place and stop
the engine.
Restart the engine and check whether the
warning display went out, in which case
the hill start assist is again working nor-
mally.
If the warning remains displayed or reap-
pears frequently, it is not necessary to
stop the vehicle immediately, but the vehi-
cle should be inspected at a
MITSUBISHI MOTORS Authorized
Service Point as soon as possible. Brake assist system
E00627000174
The brake assist system is a device assisting drivers
who

cannot depress the brake pedal firmly when it
is necessary to do so (such as in emergency stop sit-
uations) and provides greater braking force.

If the brake pedal is depressed suddenly, the brakes
will be applied with more force than usual. CAUTION
l
The
brake assist system is not a device de-
signed to exercise braking force greater
than its capacity. Make sure to always
keep a sufficient distance between vehi-
cles in front of you without relying too
much on the brake assist system.
NOTE l Once

the brake assist system is operational,
it maintains great braking force even if the
brake pedal is lightly released.
To stop its operation, completely remove
your foot from the brake pedal.
l The brake assist system may become opera-
tional when the brake pedal is fully de-
pressed even if it has not been depressed sud-
denly. Starting and driving
4-36
4

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
E00607101046
The
anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps prevent
the wheels from locking up when braking. This
helps maintain vehicle drivability and steering
wheel handling.
Driving hints
l Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle
in front of you. Even if your vehicle is equip-
ped with ABS, leave a greater braking dis-
tance when:
• Driving on gravel or snow-covered roads.
• Driving with tyre chains installed.
• Driving on uneven road surfaces.
l Operation of ABS is not restricted to situa-
tions where brakes are applied suddenly.
This system may also prevent the wheels
from locking when you drive over manholes,
steel roadwork plates, road markings, or any
uneven road surface.
l When the ABS is activated, you may feel the
brake pedal pulsation and the vibrations of
the vehicle body and steering wheel. It may
also feel as if the pedal resists being pressed.
In this situation, simply hold the brake ped-
al down firmly. Do not pump the brake,
which will result in reduced braking per-
formance.
l An operation noise is emitted from the en-
gine compartment or you can feel a shock
from the brake pedal when start driving im-
mediately after starting the engine. These are
normal sounds or operations that the ABS
makes when performing a self-check. It does
not indicate a malfunction. l
The ABS can be used after the vehicle has
reached a speed over approximately 10 km/h
(6 mph). It stops working when the vehicle
slows below approximately 5 km/h (3 mph). CAUTION
l
The
ABS cannot prevent accidents. It is
your responsibility to take safety precau-
tions and to drive carefully.
l To prevent failure of the ABS, be sure all
4 wheels and tyres are the same size and
the same type.
l Do not install any aftermarket limited-
slip differential (LSD) on your vehicle.
The ABS may stop functioning properly. ABS warning lamp/display
E00607201135
Warning lamp Warning display type 1
Warning display type 2
If there is a malfunction in the system, the ABS
warning

lamp will come on and the warning dis-
play will appear on the information screen in the
multi-information display.
Under normal conditions, the ABS warning lamp
only comes on when the ignition switch is turned
to the “ON” position or the operation mode is put
in ON and goes off a few seconds later. CAUTION
l
Any
of the following indicates that the
ABS is not functioning and only the stand- Starting and driving
4-38
4