🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

D30/D31/D32/D38A/D39A

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse, part of the second generation (1995-1999), was positioned as a sporty, affordable coupe and convertible that competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic del Sol, Toyota Celica, and Ford Mustang.

Competitive Analysis:

The Eclipse offered distinct styling and available turbocharged performance (GT and GS-T models) which differentiated it from some rivals. Its shared platform with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon also provided a degree of brand diversity in the segment.

Key Features:

Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on certain performance models, optional turbocharged engines, distinct European-influenced styling, and a driver-focused interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical, electrical, body, and HVAC systems.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely PDF or proprietary digital format with search functionality).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, timing belt replacement, piston and ring installation, cylinder head service, crankshaft and bearing service, valve train operation and adjustment.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (MPI/GDI), ignition system diagnostics, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP), ECU operation and troubleshooting, sensor identification and testing (O2, TPS, MAP, MAF, Crank/Cam sensors).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system inspection and replacement, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism adjustments, gear ratio details.

Transmission Automatic:

ATF specifications and change intervals, torque converter service, valve body operation, hydraulic circuits, shift solenoid testing, transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics.

Drivetrain Axles:

Front and rear drive shafts, CV joints, differential service, wheel hub and bearing replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component inspection (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, power steering system service, steering rack replacement.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures, ABS system operation and troubleshooting, parking brake adjustment.

Electrical Lighting:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and identification, lighting system diagnostics (headlights, taillights, interior lights), bulb types and specifications.

Electrical Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, sunroof, horn, wiper and washer system diagnostics.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service (refrigerant types, charge capacities, leak detection), heater core replacement, blower motor diagnostics, climate control system troubleshooting.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door and trunk latch mechanisms, bumper systems, exterior trim replacement.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacement (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic trees for common drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, and braking system malfunctions.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, and steering system repairs.

Component Replacement:

Specific guidance on replacing radiators, alternators, starters, fuel pumps, ignition coils, and other common wear items.

Bodywork Refinishing:

Information on panel alignment, rust repair considerations, and some basic paint and bodywork techniques.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (e.g., PDF, .exe installer for specific software, or web-based access).

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital images and clear text, suitable for printing specific pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

2.0L SOHC 4G63 MPI (Non-turbo), 2.0L DOHC 4G63 MPI (Non-turbo, GS model), 2.0L DOHC 4G63T Turbocharged MPI (GS-T model).

2.0L Sohc Non-Turbo Hp:

Approx. 132 hp @ 5500 rpm

2.0L DOHc Non-Turbo Hp:

Approx. 141 hp @ 6000 rpm

2.0L DOHc Turbocharged Hp:

Approx. 210 hp @ 6000 rpm

2.0L DOHc Turbocharged Torque:

Approx. 214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for non-turbo, 91 octane recommended for turbo)

4G63 Sohc Mpi:

1997cc, 85mm bore, 88mm stroke, 9.5:1 compression ratio.

4G63 DOHc Mpi:

1997cc, 85mm bore, 88mm stroke, 9.5:1 compression ratio.

4G63T DOHc Mpi:

1997cc, 85mm bore, 88mm stroke, 8.5:1 compression ratio, turbocharger (TD05H-14B or similar).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with overdrive)

Transmission AWD Availability:

Available on GS and GS-T models, typically paired with the 4G63T engine.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.7 inches (Coupe) / 178.7 inches (Convertible)

Width:

Approx. 69.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 51.0 inches (Coupe) / 51.5 inches (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.2 inches

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 2800 - 3200 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Impact:

Not extensively documented for this specific year and model. Early 90s Japanese vehicles often had good structural integrity but lacked advanced restraint systems.

Active Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some trims.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, manual climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primarily ABS. No electronic stability control (ESC) or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.

Connectivity Features:

None beyond standard radio and antenna.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service).

Timing Belt Interval:

Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 miles, critical on turbocharged models due to interference engine design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles for standard plugs, up to 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.

Engine Oil Spec:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific conditions).

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar OAT/HOAT coolant may be compatible but check specific manual.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid.

Known Issues Engine:

Cracked exhaust manifolds on turbo models, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), radiator leaks, PCV valve issues causing rough idle.

Known Issues Transmission:

Clutch wear (especially on manual transmissions), automatic transmission solenoid issues, torque converter problems.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, blown struts/shocks, premature tie rod end wear.

Known Issues Electrical:

Faulty window regulators, failing power mirror motors, intermittent dashboard light issues, alternator failures.

Known Issues Body:

Rust issues (fender wells, rocker panels, rear quarters), seal degradation leading to water leaks, especially on convertibles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history in automotive manufacturing, with a strong presence in performance vehicles and rally racing, often associated with the legendary Lancer Evolution, though the Eclipse was a more mainstream sports coupe.

Model Evolution:

The second generation Eclipse (1995-1999) represented a significant styling and engineering update from the first generation. It adopted a more rounded, aerodynamic design and introduced more potent turbocharged and AWD options, solidifying its place in the affordable sports car market.

Production Location:

United States (Normal, Illinois) at the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) plant, a joint venture with Chrysler.

Production Years:

1990-1994 (1st Gen), 1995-1999 (2nd Gen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the specific 1997 model may not have garnered specific awards, the second-generation Eclipse was generally well-received for its styling and performance value, contributing to Mitsubishi's reputation in the sports coupe segment during the late 1990s.