🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse Spyder

Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005

Platform:

DOHC Convertible (3G Eclipse)

Chassis Code:

D53A

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder of this generation was positioned as a stylish, sporty convertible, often appealing to younger buyers or those seeking affordable open-top motoring.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Camry Solara convertible, Ford Mustang convertible, Chevrolet Camaro convertible, and possibly entry-level luxury convertibles.

Convertible Top:

Power-operated convertible soft top with weatherproofing and insulation.

Styling:

Distinctive styling with flowing lines, a sporty stance, and a focus on aerodynamic design.

Performance Options:

Offered with different engine options, including a more powerful V6 for enhanced performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2003-2005 models.

Component Coverage:

All major mechanical, electrical, body, and systems.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies, typically 1000+ pages for a complete factory service manual equivalent.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Classification:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) equivalent

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling, timing components.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, engine control module (ECM), sensors, actuators.

Emission Control:

Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP), oxygen sensors.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, coil springs, dampers), alignment specifications.

Clutch:

Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch hydraulic system (master and slave cylinders).

Manual Transaxle:

Gearbox assembly, synchronizers, shift linkage, clutch operation, lubrication, service procedures.

Automatic Transaxle:

Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control unit, valve body, electronic control, fluid specifications, service.

Driveshaft And Axle:

CV axles, drive shafts, universal joints, differential assembly, wheel bearings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic lines, calipers, pads, rotors.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, trim components, convertible top operation and repair, glass.

Body Electrical:

Lighting system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control, body control module (BCM).

Restraint System:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, tensioners, airbag control module.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems.

Diagnostics:

Component testing, electrical circuit analysis, diagnostic tool usage.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.

User Level:

Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, allowing for clear viewing and printing.

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages or the entire manual as needed.

Binding:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding.

Paper:

Not applicable (digital format).

PDF Reader:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible).

Unzipping Tool:

WinZip or similar unzipping utility (for downloaded files).

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS.

Zoom Capability:

YES - Allows for zooming in/out for detailed viewing of illustrations and diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick finding of specific terms or procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Available with 2.4L 4-cylinder (4G64) and 3.0L V6 (6G72) engines.

2.4L Engine Details:

SOHC, 16-valve, naturally aspirated inline-four. Approx. 147-154 hp, 145-147 lb-ft torque.

3.0L V6 Engine Details:

SOHC, 24-valve, naturally aspirated V6 (derived from Mitsubishi 6G72 engine). Approx. 197-200 hp, 207 lb-ft torque.

Redline:

Varies by engine, typically around 6,500-7,000 RPM.

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Oil Type:

API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 2.4L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.0L V6 (with filter change).

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transaxle (F5M33 or similar).

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transaxle (e.g., KM124 or F4A42).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (SAE 75W-90 recommended). Automatic: SPIII ATF (or equivalent).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.5 inches (2629 mm).

Length:

Approx. 177.5 inches (4508 mm).

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm).

Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm).

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically 3200-3500 lbs (1450-1590 kg).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies, consult vehicle placard.

Trunk Volume:

Limited due to convertible top mechanism, typically around 6-7 cubic feet.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Typically received 4-star ratings for driver and passenger front impact in IIHS/NHTSA tests of the era.

IIHS Side Impact:

Ratings varied, consult specific year tests.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on some higher trims (TCS).

Airbags:

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

Seat Belts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and integrated roll bars behind the seats for structural rigidity in a rollover.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with optional premium sound system and subwoofer. Some units may have cassette tape capability.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Limited to no factory auxiliary audio inputs. Aftermarket solutions may be available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles (6,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (synthetic recommended for longer intervals).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., iridium).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for the 4-cylinder engine (4G64), typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 144,000 km) to prevent catastrophic engine damage. The V6 uses a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free unless it exhibits noise.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or III (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Potential issues with hydraulic lines, motors, and seals in the power convertible top, leading to slow operation or leaks.

Engine Mounts:

Wear and tear on engine and transmission mounts, leading to vibration or clunking noises.

Suspension Components:

Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings, common for vehicles of this age and mileage.

Exhaust System:

Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust system, particularly in regions with harsh weather.

ABS Sensors:

Failure of ABS wheel speed sensors can trigger ABS warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for engineering, particularly in rally and sports cars.

Eclipse Spyder Generations:

This generation (2000-2005) is the third generation. The Spyder variant debuted in 1995 as a convertible version of the first-gen Eclipse.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Normal, Illinois) by Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA).

Production Years:

2003-2005 model years for this specific manual.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reception:

Generally well-received for its styling and convertible experience at its price point. Performance models offered a good balance of power and handling.