Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2003 Mitsubishi Outlander LS, AWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Armature Check
- Check that the armature coil is not grounded.
- Place armature in a growler. See Fig 1 .
- Hold a thin steel blade parallel and just above while rotating the armature slowly in the growler. A shorted armature will cause a blade to vibrate and attract to the core. Replace the shorted armature.
- Check the insulation between the armature coil cores and the commutator segments. They are normal if there is no continuity. See Fig 2 .
- Check for continuity between the segments. The condition is normal if there is continuity. See Fig 3 .
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.