Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Restoration Projects
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Mazda RX-7
Vehicle Selling Points:
Stylish design, affordable performance, available AWD (GT model), reliable powertrains
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform all levels of maintenance and repair, saving costs and preserving vehicle value.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD & AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Gauges, Instruments, Audio System, Power Accessories, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM)
Body And Interior:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Doors, Windows, Sunroof, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Error Code Interpretation
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, printable pages
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Displacement Base:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Engine Type Base:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Horsepower Base:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine Torque Base:
125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Displacement Turbo:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Engine Type Turbo:
Turbocharged and Intercooled Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Horsepower Turbo:
195 hp @ 6000 rpm (GS/GS-X Turbo)
Engine Torque Turbo:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (GS/GS-X Turbo)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Regular) for NA, 91 Octane (Premium) Recommended for Turbocharged Models
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated (N/A for 1990 models)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Not Applicable (Category not tested in 1990)
ABS:
Optional on Base/RS, Standard on GS-X
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, optional CD player
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Cruise Control:
Standard on higher trims (GS/GS-X), optional on others.
Analog Systems:
All vehicle systems primarily rely on analog and basic electronic controls, no modern digital connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (Critical for 4G63/4G63T engines).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type Base:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity Base:
4.2 US Quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically green, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), turbocharger issues (on turbo models), oil leaks, rust (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels), electrical gremlins, degraded suspension bushings.
Key Recommendations:
Regular timing belt replacement, diligent oil changes, inspecting coolant hoses and power steering lines for leaks.
Manufacturer Background:
Mitsubishi Motors, a division of Mitsubishi Group, known for automotive engineering and innovation.
First Generation Introduction:
The first generation Eclipse was introduced for the 1990 model year.
Design Collaboration:
Co-developed with Chrysler Corporation under the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture, also sold as Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors assembly plant)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1990.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a finalist or winner for MotorTrend Car of the Year in 1990.
Emissions Standards:
Complies with 1990 US Federal Emissions Standards.
