Engine Mechanical:
Engine teardown, assembly, overhaul, component specifications, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (for GT models)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internals, linkage, maintenance, repair
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, hydraulic control, valve body, planetary gears, maintenance, repair
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, coil springs, shock absorbers, wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link independent suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, column, alignment
Brakes Front:
Ventilated discs, calipers, pads, ABS components, fluid replacement, bleeding procedures
Brakes Rear:
Solid or ventilated discs, calipers, pads, parking brake mechanism, ABS components, fluid replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System Powertrain:
ECU diagnostics, sensor inputs/outputs, fuel pump control, ignition coil signals, injector control
Electrical System Body:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, keyless entry, security system
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant handling), heating system, blower motor, controls
Body Exterior:
Panel removal/installation (doors, fenders, hood, trunk), trim, bumpers, glass replacement
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, door panels, carpeting, headliner, airbag systems
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) P-codes and manufacturer-specific codes, scan tool usage, live data analysis
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Complete electrical schematics with component identification and circuit tracing
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repairs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Good
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
ABS:
Standard on all models
Traction Control:
Optional/Standard on GT-S
Electronic Stability Control:
Not widely available on 2005 models
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags standard
Airbags Side:
Optional front side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (4G64 engine) - CRITICAL MAINTENANCE ITEM
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 4-cyl, 4.8 quarts (4.5 L) with filter for V6
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent (50/50 mix)
Coolant Capacity:
6.9 quarts (6.5 L) for 4-cyl, 7.2 quarts (6.8 L) for V6
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF-SP III or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Common Issue Transmission Auto:
Failure of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) or valve body issues leading to harsh shifting or slipping.
Common Issue Engine Timing Belt:
Timing belt breakage if not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Common Issue Suspension:
Premature wear of front lower control arm bushings and rear strut mounts.
Common Issue Electrical:
Window motor failure, issues with interior lighting, and intermittent power to accessories.
Common Issue Brakes:
Squealing or premature wear of brake pads and rotors, especially with aggressive driving.
Brand Origins:
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, known for its diverse product line and innovative technologies.
Generation 3 Introduction:
The third generation Eclipse (2000-2005) was a significant redesign, moving to the shared Chrysler/Mitsubishi 'D Platform' and offering a more mature and refined design compared to its predecessor.
2005 Model Year Updates:
For 2005, the Eclipse received minor cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear fascias, new wheel designs, and interior enhancements. GT-S model introduced with a more aggressive body kit and sport-tuned suspension.
Assembly Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)
Production Years 3Rd Gen:
2000-2005