🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse Spyder

Model Generation:

Third Generation

Production Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005

Platform Code:

D52

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact sports convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking DIY maintenance and repair capabilities

Key Competitors:

Mazda Miata (MX-5), Toyota Celica Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible

Vehicle Appeal:

Styling, convertible experience, accessible performance

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on common industry practice for this era)

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical and electrical systems

Additional Coverage:

Bodywork, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for all engine variants

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, and differentials

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs

Steering:

Power steering system, rack and pinion, components

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, gauges

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, evaporative emissions control

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, piping

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, trim

Body Interior:

Seating, dashboard, interior trim, airbags

Chassis Frame:

Frame construction, mounting points

Comfort Convenience:

Power windows, locks, mirrors, remote entry, cruise control

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system, seatbelts

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul

Specifications And Measurements:

Torque specifications, clearances, alignments, pressures

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

DTC definitions and diagnostic flowcharts

Engine Timing:

Camshaft and crankshaft timing procedures

Fuel Injection Service:

Injector testing, cleaning, and replacement

Brake Bleeding:

Procedures for bleeding brake lines, including ABS systems

Convertible Top Service:

Maintenance and repair of the power convertible top mechanism

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)

Detail Level:

Highly detailed with diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step instructions

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (if a well-digitized PDF)

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.4L:

4G64

Engine Displacement 2.4L:

2351 cc

Engine Configuration 2.4L:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve

Horsepower 2.4L:

147 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2.4L:

162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 3.0L:

6G72 (SOHC or SOHC MIVEC V6)

Engine Displacement 3.0L:

2972 cc

Engine Configuration 3.0L:

V6, SOHC (24-valve)

Horsepower 3.0L:

200 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 3.0L:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4-cyl, 91 octane recommended for V6)

ECU Type:

Proprietary Mitsubishi ECU with OBD-II diagnostics

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with sport mode on some models)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF SP-III (for automatic), Manual transmission fluid (specific grade)

Drivetrain Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.7 inches (approx.)

Width:

70.1 inches (approx.)

Height:

53.0 inches (approx.)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (approx.)

Track Width Front:

60.2 inches (approx.)

Track Width Rear:

60.0 inches (approx.)

Curb Weight 4-Cyl:

3086 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight V6:

3164 lbs (approx.)

Cargo Volume Trunk:

5.8 cu ft (approx.) with top up

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (2003 model year data)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (2003 model year data)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2003 model year, based on available data)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags Front:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional side curtain airbags or side impact airbags on some models

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Rockford Fosgate on some trims)

Display:

Digital Odometer, basic climate control displays

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; typically requires aftermarket modification for aux or Bluetooth

Keyless Entry:

Optional on some trims

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal duty), consult owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (consult manual)

Spark Plug Replacement 4-Cyl:

Approx. 60,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on type, e.g., platinum)

Timing Belt Replacement:

70,000 miles or 7 years (for V6 engine, critical item)

Engine Oil Type 4-Cyl:

API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or newer, SAE 5W-30

Engine Oil Type V6:

API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or newer, SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 (consult manual)

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issue Convertible Top:

Issues with hydraulic lines, motors, and fabric wear for the power convertible top. Manual adjustment might be required.

Common Issue Ignition Coils:

Premature failure of ignition coils, especially on the V6 engine, leading to misfires.

Common Issue Suspension Components:

Wear and tear on suspension bushings and ball joints, leading to noise and imprecise handling.

Common Issue Evaporative Emissions:

EVAP system leaks, often from cracked hoses or faulty vent solenoids, causing check engine lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

Japan

Previous Models:

Mitsubishi Eclipse (coupe), Mitsubishi 3000GT, Mitsubishi FTO

Generation Start:

Third Generation began with the 2000 model year

Styling Influence:

Significant redesign from the second generation, adopting a more aggressive and modern aesthetic, shared platform with the Mitsubishi Galant.

Spyder Introduction:

The Spyder (convertible) variant was introduced alongside the coupe redesign.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)

Production End For Model:

2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Generally received mixed to positive reviews for styling and performance, though often criticized for interior quality and refinement compared to some competitors. Some awards related to convertible design or value for money may exist but are not prominent.