Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe and Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, sporty styling, and reliable daily driving capabilities.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6.
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic design, available in coupe and convertible body styles.
Performance Options:
Choice of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, available AWD on higher trims.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) platform, shared with Chrysler (Dodge Avenger, Plymouth Laser), offering robust engineering.
Engine:
All gasoline engine variants, including maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and overhaul procedures.
Engine Management:
ECU, sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition system diagnostics, emissions control systems.
Turbocharging:
Specific coverage for turbocharged models (e.g., GSX, GST), including turbocharger system, intercooler, wastegate, and boost control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, clutch service, and operation.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shocks, struts, bushings, and repair procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, and linkage.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, disc and drum brake procedures, master cylinder, calipers, and lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, and diagnostic procedures.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, door mechanisms, bumpers, frame specifications, and rust repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, and condenser.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt replacement, spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures with detailed component specifications.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I diagnostic code retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing, component testing using multimeters and specialized tools.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance, pressure readings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Naturally Aspirated Engine Options:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC (approx. 135-140 hp), 2.4L 4G64 DOHC (approx. 145-150 hp)
Turbocharged Engine Options:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC Turbocharged (approx. 200-210 hp for AWD GSX/GST models, slight variations by year)
Horsepower Range:
135 hp - 210 hp (depending on engine and trim)
Torque Range:
135 lb-ft - 205 lb-ft (depending on engine and trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI/EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for turbocharged models)
Common Engine Codes:
4G63 (SOHC and DOHC Turbo), 4G64
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (F5M33 for FWD, V5M33 for AWD)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (F4A33 for FWD, V4A33 for AWD)
AWD System:
Advanced Twin-Clutch Active Diff (TC-SST) or Viscous Coupling Unit (VCU) dependent on specific model/year (for GSX/GST models).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact spec and capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond SP-III (or equivalent ATF SP-III)
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
177.4 - 178.7 inches (4506 - 4539 mm) depending on model year and trim
Width:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
51.6 inches (1311 mm) for Coupe, 51.0 inches (1295 mm) for Convertible
Curb Weight Range:
2850 - 3300 lbs (approx. 1293 - 1497 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
205/55R16 (common for ES, LS, GS models), 215/50R17 (common for GSX, GST models)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Varied by year and specific test; generally considered adequate for its era. Consult individual year NHTSA data for specifics.
ABS:
Available on most models, standard on higher trims (GSX, GST) from 1993 onwards.
Traction Control:
Available on select AWD models (e.g., GSX).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard on most trims by mid-generation (around 1995).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts, front and rear.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (consult manual for precise recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63/4G64 engines (interference engines). Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Overdue replacement can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (viscosity may vary based on climate, check manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type (e.g., Asian green).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual).
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common issues include valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal leaks. The oil pressure sending unit can also leak.
Turbocharger Wear:
On turbocharged models, turbo failure can occur due to lack of proper warm-up/cool-down, oil starvation, or excessive boost. Regular oil changes are critical.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items leading to clunking noises and sloppy handling.
Clutch Wear:
Clutches are consumable items; lifespan depends on driving style. Flywheel issues can also arise.
Awt System Issues:
For AWD models, the viscous coupling unit or transfer case seals can leak. The active center differential on some models may require specific maintenance.
Evaporative Emission Control System:
Canister purge solenoid and vent control solenoids can fail, leading to check engine lights and rough idle.
Mitsubishi Performance Focus:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in motorsport (e.g., WRC, Dakar Rally), which influenced the performance tuning of models like the Eclipse.
Generation Introduction:
The second generation (G2) Eclipse was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the first generation which debuted in 1989. The original product information seems to list a range that crosses generations. This manual specifically covers the G2 generation from 1995-1999. *Correction based on common manual nomenclature: The provided years 1990-1999 suggest the manual may cover BOTH G1 and G2, or be a broader compilation. However, the product name explicitly states G2. Assuming G2 is primary.*
G1 Vs G2 Differences:
The G2 featured a significant redesign with a more rounded, aggressive styling, updated interior, and new powertrain options, including the more powerful 4G64 and a more robust AWD system.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (at Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler).
Production End Date For G2:
The G2 generation was produced until the 1999 model year.
