Market Position:
The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder occupied the compact sports coupe/convertible segment, known for offering sporty styling and performance at a competitive price point, often appealing to younger buyers and enthusiasts seeking a stylish and engaging vehicle.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles such as the Nissan 350Z, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Honda Prelude. The Eclipse's AWD option on GT models provided a performance advantage in certain conditions against many front-wheel-drive competitors.
Key Features:
Distinctive styling, available turbocharged engine (GT), optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on GT models, independent rear suspension, available convertible top (Spyder), comfortable interior for its class, and robust aftermarket support.
Coverage Areas:
All systems, diagnostics, repair, maintenance, wiring diagrams, specifications.
Page Count:
Approximately 2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (WINRAR archive containing PDF files)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU/ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD/AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Body & Chassis, Electrical System, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Audio System, Lighting System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Body Exterior & Interior Trim.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly, repair procedures, component testing, specifications and tolerances, torque specifications, tightening sequences, component replacement, electronic diagnostics, emissions system repair, body repair, chassis alignment, wheel balancing and rotation, brake bleeding, clutch service, convertible top service (Spyder).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, complex electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes detailed wiring schematics for accurate electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Options:
2.4L 4G64 SOHC Inline-4; 3.0L 6G72 SOHC V6.
4 Cylinder Gs Performance:
147 hp @ 5500 rpm, 158 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
V6 Gt Performance:
200 hp @ 5500 rpm, 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Engine Codes:
4G64 (2.4L), 6G72 (3.0L V6).
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (GS and GT FWD models).
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (GS and GT models).
AWD Transmission:
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic transmission available with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on GT models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers and alternatives).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond SP-III (Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers and alternatives).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm).
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (4513 mm).
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm).
Height:
Approx. 53.3 inches (1354 mm).
Curb Weight Gs Manual:
Approx. 3086 lbs (1399 kg).
Curb Weight Gt AWD Auto:
Approx. 3560 lbs (1615 kg).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches).
Wheel Size Standard:
16 inch (GS).
Wheel Size Optional:
17 inch (GT, optional on GS).
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 7.9 cu ft (Coupe).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2003 Model Year).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2003 Model Year).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4 Stars (2003 Model Year).
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (2003 Model Year).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) (standard on GT).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags, front and rear crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column, seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Base models typically featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims offered premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity brand) with CD changers and an integrated subwoofer.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS and EBD on GT models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were available.
Connectivity Options:
Basic, with optional steering wheel audio controls on higher trims. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity available from the factory.
Climate Control Options:
Manual air conditioning standard on most trims. Optional automatic climate control available on GT models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (under normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles or 15 months, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles or 30 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Replace every 60,000 miles (Iridium type).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L V6:
Replace every 30,000 miles (Platinum type).
Engine Oil Type 2.4L:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher (Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers).
Engine Oil Type 3.0L V6:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher (Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-97147) or equivalent (Pink coolant, Ethylene Glycol based).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers).
Known Issues 2.4L Engine:
Oil consumption, potential head gasket issues, timing belt failure if not replaced per schedule (4G64 is non-interference engine, but damage can still occur).
Known Issues 3.0L V6 Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump leaks, oil cooler line leaks, timing belt maintenance is critical (interference engine).
Known Issues Suspension Steering:
Premature wear of ball joints and control arm bushings, power steering fluid leaks.
Known Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, LCM (Lighting Control Module) failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.
Known Issues Spyder Top:
Hydraulic leaks for the convertible top, zipper issues, and fabric wear.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsport, particularly with its Lancer Evolution, which influenced the performance-oriented aspects of the Eclipse, especially the AWD models.
Model Evolution Third Generation:
The 2003 model year marked the third generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, a significant redesign from the previous generation, featuring a completely new platform and styling. This generation introduced the 3.0L V6 engine and optional AWD for the GT trim.
Production Plant:
Built by Mitsubishi Motors North America at their plant in Normal, Illinois, USA.
Production Years Third Gen:
2000-2005.
Design Awards:
The third-generation Eclipse received various accolades for its styling upon its release, often praised for its aggressive and sporty design language.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied. Consumer Reports often rated this generation of Eclipse with average to below-average reliability, particularly concerning the V6 engine and transmission.
Emissions Certification:
Certified to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards for the model year.
