🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse / Spyder

Model Years Covered:

2000, 2001, 2002

Chassis Codes:

D52A (Eclipse), D53A (Spyder)

👋 Introduction

Market Niche:

Sport compact, convertible market

Key Competitors Era:

Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Ford Focus SVT, Nissan 240SX, Mazda Miata (for Spyder)

Model Appeal:

Sporty styling, available turbocharged engines (GT), convertible option (Spyder), accessible performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Factory Service / Workshop Manual

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific engine/model but typically 1500+ pages for complete factory manuals.

Type:

Workshop Manual / Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery:

Digital Download (ZIP)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls.

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, performance diagnostics, sensor data analysis, ECU control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox operation, gear sets, synchronizers, shift forks, final drive, linkage, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission operation, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, seals, fluid maintenance.

Drivetrain Axles:

Front drive shafts, rear axle assembly (for AWD variants), differentials, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel, column lock.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics.

Electrical Charging:

Alternator, battery, charging system diagnostics, wiring.

Electrical Starting:

Starter motor, ignition switch, starting system diagnostics, wiring.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, signal lights, wiring diagrams.

Electrical Instruments:

Dashboard instruments, gauges, warning lights, fuel level sensor, speedometer, tachometer.

Electrical Audio:

Radio, speaker system, amplifier (if equipped), wiring.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping.

Body Interior:

Seat removal and installation, dashboard trim, door panels, carpeting, headliner, interior trim components.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, cabin air filter replacement.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system components, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics, seat belts, pre-tensioners.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems, component replacement procedures.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, measurement data, clearances, tolerances.

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Viewable on any device with a PDF reader.

Printability:

Yes, pages can be printed.

Zoom Capability:

Yes, allows zooming in for detailed examination of diagrams and text.

Manual Quality:

Factory

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L 4G64 SOHC I4, 3.0L 6G72 SOHC V6, 2.0L 4G63T DOHC Turbo I4 (GT models)

Horsepower 2.4L:

Approx. 145-154 hp

Torque 2.4L:

Approx. 155-160 lb-ft

Horsepower 3.0L V6:

Approx. 195-205 hp

Torque 3.0L V6:

Approx. 200-210 lb-ft

Horsepower 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 205 hp

Torque 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 214 lb-ft

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Recommendation:

87 Octane (2.4L, 3.0L V6), 91 Octane Premium Unleaded (2.0L Turbo GT)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel, ignition, and emissions.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Types:

5-Speed Manual (available on 2.4L, 3.0L V6, 2.0L Turbo), 4-Speed Automatic (available on 2.4L, 3.0L V6)

Optional Transmission Types:

4-Speed Automatic

AWD Option:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on GT models with 2.0L Turbo engine.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches

Length:

Approx. 179.9 inches (Eclipse), 179.2 inches (Spyder)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 52.7 inches (Eclipse), 53.3 inches (Spyder)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and trim, typically 2900-3400 lbs.

Cargo Volume Eclipse:

Approx. 12.7 cubic feet (trunk)

Cargo Volume Spyder:

Significantly reduced due to convertible top mechanism, typically under 5 cubic feet with top up.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (driver and passenger) - (Note: Specific year ratings can vary, check NHTSA records for exact details)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable/Good - (Note: Specific year ratings can vary, check IIHS records for exact details)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some base trims.

Traction Control:

Available on GT models, sometimes linked with AWD.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems with amplifiers and subwoofers were available.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Gauge Cluster:

Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and various warning lights. Some models may have multi-information displays.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine type.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:

Approx. 60,000 miles (Iridium plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (Iridium plugs)

Timing Belt Replacement 2.4L:

Recommended at 90,000-105,000 miles (Interference engine - critical replacement).

Timing Belt Replacement 3.0L V6:

Chain-driven, no regular replacement interval needed, but inspect tensioners and guides.

Timing Belt Replacement 2.0L Turbo:

Recommended at 90,000-105,000 miles (Interference engine - critical replacement).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SJ or ILSAC GF-2 certified synthetic or synthetic blend recommended. Consult manual for exact specifications.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.0-2.4 liters.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III ATF or equivalent. Capacity approx. 6.5-7.0 liters for a drain and fill.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific power steering fluid as per manual.

Engine Sludge 2.4L:

The 4G64 engine can be prone to oil sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected. Regular maintenance is crucial.

Automatic Transmission Failures:

Some reports of automatic transmission failures or slipping, often related to overheating or infrequent fluid changes. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Suspension Wear:

Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to the sporty nature of the car.

Power Window Motors:

In convertible Spyder models, power window motors and regulators can sometimes fail.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

The cast iron exhaust manifold on V6 and turbo models can sometimes develop cracks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, including rally legends like the Lancer Evolution, which shared powertrain DNA with the Eclipse GT models.

Third Generation Eclipse:

This generation (2000-2005) marked a significant redesign, moving to a larger, more mature platform shared with the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring. The Spyder variant continued as a popular convertible option.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Eclipse GT often featured on or near '10 Best' lists for its class during its production run, particularly for value and performance.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific powertrain. The manual is crucial for addressing common issues and ensuring longevity.