Segment:
Compact Sport Coupe / Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance and sporty styling.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Civic Si, Ford Focus SVT, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Acura RSX.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty styling, front-wheel-drive platform, emphasis on driver engagement, and affordable performance.
Trim Levels Available:
GS, GT, GT-S (specific to engine and features).
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Exterior, Interior, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Emission Controls, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Procedures, Repair Procedures, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations, Specifications
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Shop Manual
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and repair for engine control units (ECU), sensors (e.g., MAP, MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuators (e.g., fuel injectors, ignition coils, throttle body), and emission control systems (e.g., EVAP, EGR).
Transmission System:
Covers both manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, overhaul, clutch system, gear ratios, torque converter, valve body operation, and fluid specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, sway bars), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake systems, including disc brake components, brake pads, rotors, calipers, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnosis, parking brake, and brake fluid specifications.
Electrical Lighting:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, relay locations, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn, wipers, power windows, door locks, and instrument cluster.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heating system (heater core, blower motor), climate control operation, and troubleshooting.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, trim removal, paint codes, and structural information.
Interior Trim:
Dashboard removal, seat removal, interior paneling, headliner, carpeting, and airbag system component locations and precautions.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, coolant flushes, and belt inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components, including engine assembly/disassembly, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, and electrical system repairs.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Utilizing diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II), interpreting trouble codes (DTCs), and performing live data analysis for accurate diagnosis.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostics and repair for complex electrical and mechanical systems.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2000-2001 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2000-2001 models)
IIHS Front Offset Score:
Acceptable (for 2000-2001 models)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base GS.
Traction Control:
Optional on GT/GT-S models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type and engine).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.25 L) with filter (2.4L) / Approx. 4.2 quarts (4.0 L) with filter (2.0L).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP II M or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based).
Common Problems Transmission:
Automatic transmission harsh shifting or slipping, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. Manual clutch wear.
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan. Issues with crankshaft position sensors leading to stalling or no-start conditions. Knock sensor failure.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuators failing, instrument cluster intermittent issues, and alternator failures.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends, and premature strut/shock absorber wear.
Mitsubishi History:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, known for vehicles like the Lancer Evolution, Pajero, and Outlander. Founded in 1970.
Eclipse Lineage:
The Eclipse was developed in partnership with Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler) and produced by Diamond-Star Motors. The third generation marked a significant styling and platform change from the previous generations.
Third Gen Design:
The third generation moved to the new global platform shared with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus Coupe. It featured a more rounded, organic design language compared to the angular design of its predecessors.
Manufacturing Plant:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant).
