Positioning:
Sport compact, performance-oriented coupe and convertible, targeting younger buyers and driving enthusiasts
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Mustang (entry-level trims)
Performance Variants:
Available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged (GS-T, GST) variants, offering significant performance potential
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling, available in coupe and convertible body styles
Platform:
Shared platform with Dodge Colt and Eagle Summit (Chrysler Corporation rebadges), but with distinct Mitsubishi powertrains and tuning
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication, timing belt replacement, turbocharger systems (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission overhaul and repair, differentials, drive axles, CV joints
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics, sensors, actuators, interior electronics, fuse box layouts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, structural components, chassis adjustments
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling (R12 at this time), heater core replacement, blower motor diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank servicing.
Turbocharger System:
Turbocharger operation, wastegate adjustment, boost pressure control, intercooler inspection and servicing (for turbo models).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing specifications, diagnostic parameters
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for engine control, fuel system, ignition system, ABS, and transmission control. Includes DTC interpretation and pinpoint tests.
Wheel Alignment:
Specific alignment specifications (caster, camber, toe) and adjustment procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly, including piston ring gap, bearing clearances, and valve seating.
Transmission Overhaul:
Comprehensive procedures for complete manual and automatic transmission disassembly, component replacement (clutches, seals, gears, synchros), and reassembly.
Engine Tuning:
Includes specifications for ignition timing, fuel trim adjustments, and basic performance parameter adjustments.
Engine Code Na:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Code Turbo:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Na:
Approx. 128 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 195 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for Turbo)
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder, transverse mounting
Block Material:
Cast iron (4G63/4G63T)
Type Na:
5-speed Manual (FWD models)
Type AWD:
5-speed Manual (AWD models)
Type Auto Na:
4-speed Automatic (FWD models)
Type Auto AWD:
4-speed Automatic (AWD models)
AWD System:
Mitsubishi's 'Viscous coupling' AWD system, with some models featuring driver-selectable modes or electronic control
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 (check manual for specific variant)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to specific Mitsubishi specification)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (refer to specific manual for details and severe service conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 4G63/4G63T engines to prevent catastrophic damage).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), longer for platinum/iridium plugs if fitted.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change (4G63/4G63T)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Turbocharger Durability:
Early turbo models may experience turbocharger wear or failure if maintenance is neglected or if subjected to abuse without proper warm-up/cool-down.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Tensioner bearing failure can occur, emphasizing the importance of timely replacement. The 4G63T engine is an 'interference' engine, meaning belt failure causes piston-to-valve contact.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seals can develop leaks over time.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear, especially on AWD models or those subjected to hard acceleration.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Heritage Notes:
Mitsubishi has a history of producing robust and technologically advanced vehicles, often with a focus on performance and rally heritage (e.g., Lancer Evolution, though the Eclipse is a distinct line).
First Generation:
The 1994 model is part of the first generation Eclipse (1989-1994), which established its identity as a sporty front-wheel-drive coupe with optional AWD.
Second Generation Transition:
This manual covers the end of the first generation, shortly before the redesign for the 1995 model year, which significantly altered the styling and platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Built in Normal, Illinois, USA, by Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) alongside its Chrysler corporate siblings.