Segment:
Sport Compact / Affordable Sports Car
Key Competitors:
Nissan 240SX, Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Ford Mustang (V6)
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, low-slung profile
Performance Options:
Available V6 engine, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Primary Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, DIY mechanics
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel, Ignition, Exhaust, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD & AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS included), Wheels & Tires
Electrical System:
Lighting, Instruments, Audio System, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules, Engine Control Module (ECM), Anti-theft system (if applicable)
Body & Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), SRS Airbag System
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair & Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, body panel repair
Component Installation:
Installation and removal procedures for major components
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4 - GSR/GST trims)
Engine Code 2:
6A12 (2.0L DOHC V6 - ES/LS trims)
Engine Code 3:
6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6 - US-spec LS/GS trims)
Horsepower 4G63:
210 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4G63:
214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower 6G72:
164 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 6G72:
185 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Induction System Turbo:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Turbocharged
Induction System Naturally Aspirated:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
ECU Type:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlling fuel, ignition, and emissions
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (FWD)
Optional Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic (FWD)
Optional Transmission 2:
5-Speed Manual AWD (GSR/GST trims)
AWD System:
Advanced Traction Engineering System (ATES) with viscous coupling center differential
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III or equivalent ATF
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 4G63 engine
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Turbo Issues:
Turbocharger seal leaks, wastegate actuator failure (common on modified 4G63 engines)
Engine Maintenance:
Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings due to age and mileage
Interior Wear:
Cracking dashboard, worn seat bolsters, failing climate control buttons
Manufacturer Focus:
Known for robust engineering, particularly in powertrain and drivetrain technology (e.g., AWD systems).
Generation Transition:
The 1996 model marks the beginning of the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, a significant redesign from the first generation.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser as part of the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)