Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac G6 GT/GTP, Mazda RX-8.
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, sporty performance, available all-wheel drive (GTS model).
Value Proposition:
Offers a blend of performance, style, and relative affordability in the sports coupe segment, with the availability of potent V6 engines.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition, emission control systems, turbocharger (if applicable), engine diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox (manual), internal components, shift mechanisms, hydraulic systems.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, hydraulic control, electronic control unit (ECU) interfacing, automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), axles, CV joints, differential (front).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut, stabilizer bar), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, EBD, brake calipers, pads, rotors, lines, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control, refrigerant types, procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS unit, diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common symptoms, troubleshooting trees, diagnostic tools.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and installation.
Overhaul Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, or suspension rebuilds.
Specifications Torques:
Torque values for all critical fasteners, tolerances, clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive workshop level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and body repairs.
Base Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder
Base Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2378 cc)
Base Horsepower:
162 hp @ 6000 rpm
Base Torque:
161 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Base Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Optional Engine Code:
6G75
Optional Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3828 cc)
Optional Horsepower:
263 hp @ 6000 rpm (GT), 265 hp @ 6000 rpm (GTS)
Optional Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (GT), 262 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (GTS)
Performance Engine Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Performance Engine Notes:
V6 models offered with optional AWD on GTS trim.
Required Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, 91 Octane for performance models)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Optional (standard on GTS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (standard on GTS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side airbags (standard); Curtain airbags (optional/later models).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (normal conditions) with synthetic oil, or as per specific manual recommendation based on driving habits.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles or sooner if dirty.
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 60,000 miles (iridium type)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 60,000 miles (iridium type)
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (4-cylinder engines use a timing chain; V6 engines use a timing chain).
Engine Oil Type 4Cyl:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 5.7 quarts (5.4 L) with filter
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVTF-J1 or equivalent (check manual for specific part number)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent (check manual for specific part number)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Coolant Type:
Long-life antifreeze coolant (green or similar, typically ethylene glycol based, consult manual for specific type like SACC)
Common Complaints:
Oil consumption in 4-cylinder engines, premature wear of suspension components (bushings, ball joints), CV joint noise, HVAC blower motor issues, potential for catalytic converter failure, interior rattles/trim issues.
Transmission Issues:
CVT longevity can be a concern; automatic transmissions generally robust but can exhibit issues with solenoid packs or torque converters with high mileage. Manual transmissions are typically reliable.
Mitsubishi Performance Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in performance vehicles, including rally cars (Lancer Evolution) and sports coupes (3000GT, Eclipse), known for turbocharged engines and advanced technologies.
Eclipse Generations:
The 2006-2011 model represents the fourth generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, a significant redesign from the third generation, moving to a front-wheel-drive platform for most variants, and featuring a more aggressive, angular styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Period:
2005-2011
End Of Production Notes:
Production ended in 2011 due to declining sales and Mitsubishi's strategic shift towards more fuel-efficient and SUV-focused vehicles.