Segment:
Compact sports coupe/sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented buyers, tuners
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe
Design Language:
Aerodynamic, sporty styling (especially second generation)
Performance Options:
Available turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive (AWD) on select models
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Dodge/Plymouth Neon (first generation) and later Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Avenger (second generation platform, though Eclipse was still distinct)
Engine Management:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions control
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkages, internal components
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission control unit (TCU)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD) system, propeller shaft, differential, CV joints
Suspension:
Front struts/shocks, rear shocks/struts, control arms, bushings, springs, sway bars
Steering:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rod ends
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, mirrors, locks
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, seat mechanisms, trim pieces, interior components
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant handling
Safety Systems:
Seatbelt mechanisms, airbag system (though limited in early 90s models)
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagrams
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Component Replacement:
Specific guides for replacing major and minor components across all systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners
Alignment Specifications:
Wheel alignment angles (camber, caster, toe)
Electrical Diagrams:
Wiring harnesses, component locations, circuit tracing
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes information on using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., MUT-II) and interpreting diagnostic codes
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Code 1G:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbo)
Engine Code 2G Naturally Aspirated:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC NA), 6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6)
Engine Code 2G Turbocharged:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbo)
4G63T Horsepower Est:
200-210 hp (depending on year and market)
4G63T Torque Est:
205-210 lb-ft (depending on year and market)
6G72 V6 Horsepower Est:
150-160 hp (depending on year)
6G72 V6 Torque Est:
170-180 lb-ft (depending on year)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87-91 Octane Unleaded (91+ for Turbo models)
1G Gsx Gti:
5-Speed Manual (A520/W5MG1)
2G Gsx:
5-Speed Manual (W5MG1)
1G Naturally Aspirated:
5-Speed Manual (F5M33), 4-Speed Automatic (F4A33)
2G Gs:
5-Speed Manual (F5M33), 4-Speed Automatic (F4A33)
2G Gs V6:
4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)
AWD System:
Advanced All-Wheel Drive with Active Center Differential (ACD) and Viscous Coupling Unit (VCU) on AWD models
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQueen ATF-SP III or equivalent
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles for 4G63 engines. CRITICAL for preventing catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Turbocharger Failure:
Common on higher mileage turbocharged models due to heat and lack of proper warm-up/cool-down procedures. Oil starvation is a common cause.
Head Gasket Failure:
Can occur, especially on turbocharged models under stress. Look for coolant in oil or oil in coolant.
Clutch Wear:
Wear item, especially on manual transmission models with spirited driving.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV boots can lead to grease expulsion and eventual joint failure, especially on AWD models.
Rust And Corrosion:
Can affect body panels, suspension components, and exhaust systems, particularly in regions with harsh winters or coastal environments.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Long history in automotive manufacturing, known for robust engineering and motorsport involvement (e.g., Lancer Evolution).
First Generation Debut:
1990, co-developed with Chrysler (Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser)
Second Generation Debut:
1995, significant redesign with more aggressive styling and improved dynamics.
Performance Icon:
The turbocharged AWD variants, particularly the GSX, became icons in the tuner scene and rally racing (as a precursor to the Lancer Evo).
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (for North American market)
