Market Segment:
Sporty compact convertible.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.
Competitors:
Mazda Miata, Toyota MR2 Spyder, Honda S2000, Ford Mustang Convertible.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated convertible top mechanism, including hydraulic system and latching mechanisms.
Styling:
Distinctive sporty styling, often praised for its aggressive lines.
Engine:
2.4L SOHC (4G64) and 3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72) engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing belt replacement, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (F5M33) and 4-speed automatic transmission (F4A51) repair, fluid changes, clutch service, torque converter, valve body diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive axles, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, caliper, rotor, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion steering, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications, pump and rack diagnostics.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, convertible top electrical system.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, convertible top mechanism, seals, interior trim, dashboard, seats, HVAC system.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant type (R134a), climate control operation and diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, fault codes (OBD-II), electrical system troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, engine timing, suspension alignment angles, tire pressure recommendations.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Length:
Approx. 177.8 inches (4516 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg) depending on engine and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3800 lbs (1724 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated (vehicle safety standards evolved)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Not rated (vehicle safety standards evolved)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models, particularly with the V6 engine.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and chassis structure for occupant protection in the event of a rollover.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months for the 4G64 engine. Critical for V6 as well, though interval might slightly differ - manual will specify.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ certified synthetic or synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40. Check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.4L; 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter for 3.0L V6.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Diamond SP-III (or equivalent ATF SP-III) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.
Convertible Top Leaks:
Common issue with older convertibles; check and seal weatherstripping.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical to adhere to replacement intervals as failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
ABS Sensor Failure:
Wheel speed sensors for ABS can fail, triggering ABS warning light.
Power Window Motors:
Can become slow or inoperative.
Ignition Coils:
Can degrade over time, leading to misfires, especially on V6 models.
Brand History:
Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automobile manufacturer with a long history of producing diverse vehicles, known for performance and reliability.
Eclipse Generation:
This is the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995-2000 for the coupe/convertible, with 2000-2005 for the dedicated convertible platform, this manual covering the 2002 model year within that later phase).
Spyder Specifics:
The Spyder (convertible) version was introduced in 1996 and continued through the Eclipse's lifecycle, offering an open-air driving experience.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Normal, Illinois) via Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture with Chrysler.
