Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sport Coupe / Convertible
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang (entry-level trims), Nissan 240SX
Styling:
Aggressive, sporty design with optional convertible top for Spyder variant.
Performance Variants:
GT (V6) and performance-oriented models (often with turbocharging for previous generations, but naturally aspirated for this era's base V6).
Drivetrain Options:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, with optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on certain performance trims.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU), forced induction (turbocharged variants)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (F5M33, F5M42), Automatic transmission (F4A42, F4A51), clutch, driveline, driveshafts, differentials
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes (ABS/non-ABS), rear disc brakes (ABS/non-ABS), parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS module
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, power accessories, body control module (BCM), SRS (airbag) system
Body Exterior:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, sunroof, convertible top (Spyder), bumpers, trim, paint
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, interior trim, airbags, seat belts, HVAC system, audio system, instrumentation panel
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, battery maintenance
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component replacement, convertible top mechanism repair
Installation Procedures:
Component installation, accessory installation (where applicable), wiring harness routing
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic trees.
NHTSA Frontal Driver 2000:
★★★★ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger 2000:
★★★★ (4/5 Stars)
ABS:
Standard on V6 models, optional on 4-cylinder
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil.
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Timing Belt Replacement 4Cyl:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (critical for 4G64 engine due to interference design)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred), 10W-30, or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for temperature specifics)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA QUEEN ATF-SP III (or equivalent)
Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix)
4G64 Timing Belt:
Failure to replace the timing belt at recommended intervals can lead to catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
V6 Oil Sludge:
Some V6 engines can be prone to oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected, potentially leading to camshaft or bearing issues.
Automatic Transmission Reliability:
Some automatic transmissions may exhibit premature wear or shifting issues if not properly maintained. Early fluid changes are beneficial.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joints can wear out, especially on performance-oriented or AWD models.
Interior Rattles Spyder:
Convertible Spyder models may develop interior rattles and squeaks due to structural flex and numerous seals.
Mitsubishi Motors Legacy:
Known for reliable engineering and performance-oriented vehicles, especially in rally sport.
Eclipse Generation:
This is the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995-2005), with the 2000-2002 models representing a facelift and updates to the existing platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors)
