🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse & Eclipse Spyder

Production Years Covered:

1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Platform Codes:

D21A (Coupe), D22A (Coupe), D27A (Coupe), D31A (Coupe), D32A (Coupe), D33A (Coupe), D38A (Spyder), D39A (Spyder)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sports Coupe / Convertible.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.

Key Competitors 1G:

Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6.

Key Competitors 2G:

Honda Civic Si Coupe, Toyota Celica GT-S, Nissan 200SX (S14), Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang.

Styling:

Distinctive wedge-like styling (1st Gen), more aerodynamic and aggressive lines (2nd Gen), available convertible variant.

Performance Options:

Performance-oriented models like the GSX and GST with turbocharged engines and AWD, and the GT with a naturally aspirated V6.

All Wheel Drive:

Available AWD system on performance trims (e.g., GSX, GST) significantly enhanced handling and traction.

Convertible Offering:

The Eclipse Spyder provided a stylish and relatively affordable open-top driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Countries Of Sale:

North America (USA, Canada), potentially others where Mitsubishi sold these models.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, repair, and maintenance for all gasoline engines offered during these model years.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition systems, emissions control, diagnostics, sensor testing, ECU (Engine Control Unit) information.

Transmission Manual:

Repair, overhaul, and maintenance of manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Repair, overhaul, and maintenance of automatic transmissions, including hydraulic control and electronic components.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, CV joints, and driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings.

Steering:

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

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, hydraulic lines, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (Spyder), interior trim, structural components.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio systems, security systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Component Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Diagnostics:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and testing procedures.

Rebuilding:

Comprehensive instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.

Specifications Torque:

All critical torque specifications for fasteners and components.

Alignment Procedures:

Front and rear wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures.

Convertible Top Repair:

Specific procedures for the Eclipse Spyder's convertible top mechanism, hydraulics, and seals.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics).

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High resolution, printable, searchable text for ease of navigation.

Printability:

Optimized for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1G 4Cyl Na:

4G63 (2.0L SOHC, Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code 1G 4Cyl Turbo:

4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)

Engine Code 2G 4Cyl Na:

420A (2.0L DOHC, Naturally Aspirated - Chrysler sourced)

Engine Code 2G 4Cyl Turbo:

4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)

Engine Code 2G V6:

6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6)

Horsepower 4G63 Na:

Approx. 135 hp

Torque 4G63 Na:

Approx. 130 lb-ft

Horsepower 4G63T:

Approx. 195-210 hp (depending on year/tune)

Torque 4G63T:

Approx. 203-214 lb-ft (depending on year/tune)

Horsepower 420A:

Approx. 140 hp

Torque 420A:

Approx. 135 lb-ft

Horsepower 6G72 V6:

Approx. 160-170 hp

Torque 6G72 V6:

Approx. 180-185 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type Recommended:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine, premium recommended for turbo models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 1G:

5-speed Manual

Standard Transmission 2G:

5-speed Manual (on most models, exception for some V6)

Optional Transmission 1G:

4-speed Automatic

Optional Transmission 2G:

4-speed Automatic

AWD Transmission Features:

Viscous coupling center differential on AWD models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically GL-4 or GL-5 manual transmission fluid. Manual specifies specific type and viscosity, e.g., Diaqueen Super Synthesized Oil (SSO) or equivalent.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi ATF SP II or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length 1G:

Approx. 172.4 inches (Coupe)

Width 1G:

Approx. 69.1 inches

Height 1G:

Approx. 50.0 inches (Coupe)

Wheelbase 1G:

Approx. 100.4 inches

Length 2G:

Approx. 178.0 inches (Coupe)

Width 2G:

Approx. 70.5 inches

Height 2G:

Approx. 51.6 inches (Coupe)

Wheelbase 2G:

Approx. 103.2 inches

Seating Capacity:

4

Cargo Volume:

Varies by body style (Coupe vs. Spyder) and year; typically around 8-10 cu ft for coupes.

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by trim and drivetrain, ranging from approx. 2,800 lbs to 3,400+ lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA crash test data available for specific model years; generally mixed ratings for this era of vehicle.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard from mid-90s onwards, potentially optional or unavailable on earlier models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts, front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player; CD players became available on higher trims or as options later in production.

Speakers:

Typically 4 or 6 speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims.

OBD System:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) system for engine diagnostics, requiring specific Mitsubishi diagnostic tools or knowledge for full access.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual specifies.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper, platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical for 4G63 engines. Recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, consult manual for specific engine/temperature range.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies type and capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, check manual for specific requirement.

Turbo Failures 4G63T:

Oil starvation and turbocharger failure can occur if maintenance is neglected, especially oil changes.

Clutch Wear:

Clutches can wear prematurely with aggressive driving, particularly on manual transmission models.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn suspension bushings and ball joints are common with age and mileage, affecting handling and ride quality.

Rust And Corrosion:

Rust can be an issue in areas prone to salt and moisture, especially on rocker panels, wheel wells, and rear quarter panels.

Spyder Convertible Top Leaks:

Convertible top seals can degrade over time, leading to water leaks into the cabin. Mechanism can also require maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Performance Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in performance vehicles, notably with rally racing (Lancer Evolution), which influenced the Eclipse's performance variants.

Generation 1:

1990-1994. Developed in collaboration with Chrysler (DSM - Diamond-Star Motors). Introduced with 4-cylinder engines, including the legendary 4G63T turbo engine, and optional AWD. Coupe body style.

Generation 2:

1995-1999. Redesigned with a more rounded, aerodynamic body. Introduced the 420A Chrysler engine as a base option and a V6 option. Turbocharged 4G63T remained for performance trims. Introduced the Spyder convertible body style.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Chrysler).

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform and many components with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon during the DSM era.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The first generation Eclipse GSX was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1990.