🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

NM (Third Generation)

Platform:

Chrysler JS platform (shared with Dodge Stratus, Chrysler Sebring Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse was positioned as a stylish, sporty coupe and convertible, offering an attractive alternative in the compact sports car segment, often competing with models like the Honda Civic Si, Toyota Celica, and Ford Focus SVT.

Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Toyota Celica GT-S, Ford Focus SVT, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Hyundai Tiburon.

Design:

Sleek, aerodynamic styling, available in coupe and convertible body styles, distinctive front-end design.

Powertrain Options:

Choice between fuel-efficient 4-cylinder and more powerful V6 engines.

Handling:

Sport-tuned suspension (especially on GT models) provided engaging handling for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all major vehicle systems.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

4-cylinder (2.4L G4CS), V6 (3.0L 6G72, 3.8L 6G75 - later models, likely 3.0L for 2003), Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions.

Transmission:

Manual (5-speed), Automatic (4-speed), Clutch, driveline, axles, differentials.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, front disc, rear disc, parking brake, component replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, gauges, warning indicators, body control modules, power accessories, SRS (Airbag) system, ECU/ECM diagnosis.

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling.

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, collision repair procedures.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation.

Repair:

Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving, wiring diagrams for electrical issues.

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

4 Cylinder:

2.4L SOHC 16V I4 (G4CS - Mitsubishi Astron engine family). Approx. 147-154 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm, 152-160 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm.

V6:

3.0L SOHC 24V V6 (6G72 - Mitsubishi Cyclone engine family). Approx. 200-205 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm, 205-214 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm.

Horsepower Range:

147 - 205 hp

Torque Range:

152 - 214 lb-ft

Injection:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for GT models for optimal performance)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel, ignition, and emissions.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual (FWD)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic (FWD)

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated clutch system on manual transmission models.

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (likely Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (likely API GL-4 or GL-5)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Coupe: approx. 178.4 inches (4531 mm), Convertible: approx. 178.7 inches (4539 mm)

Width:

approx. 69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height:

Coupe: approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm), Convertible: approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm)

Wheelbase:

approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

approx. 3000 - 3300 lbs (1360 - 1497 kg)

Trunk Volume Coupe:

approx. 13.7 cu ft (388 L)

Trunk Volume Convertible:

approx. 5.7 cu ft (161 L) with top up

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for models with side airbags)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for models with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard on GT, optional on ES/O-Z Rally trims.

Traction Control:

Available on some models, particularly GT.

Airbags:

Front airbags standard. Optional front side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Windows:

Standard on most trims, automatic up/down for driver's window.

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe driving; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (refer to manual for exact recommendation).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum plugs).

Timing Belt:

Crucial: V6 engines (6G72) use a timing belt, requiring replacement typically around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 7-10 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. 4-cylinder engines likely use a timing chain.

Engine Oil:

API Service SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 or GF-3. Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 recommended. Capacity: Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.3-4.7 L) for 4-cyl, 5.0-5.5 quarts (4.7-5.2 L) for V6, with filter.

Coolant:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water). Capacity: Approx. 6.5-7.5 quarts (6.2-7.1 L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Interior Rattles:

Common in this generation due to various trim pieces and materials.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts can lead to noise and alignment issues.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket leaks and oil pan gasket leaks can occur with age.

Catalytic Converter:

Can sometimes fail prematurely, especially if engine misfires occur.

ABS Sensors:

Wheel speed sensors for the ABS system can fail, causing ABS warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Legacy:

Mitsubishi has a long history in motorsports and performance vehicles, with the Eclipse nameplate having roots in the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser collaborations of the 1990s.

Third Generation:

The 2003 model represents the third generation (NM platform), which saw a significant redesign from the previous DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) platform. This generation was styled by Mitsubishi designers in Japan, moving away from the US-centric design of the previous generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (DSM plant).

Production Period:

2000-2005 (for the NM generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

While not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards in 2003, the Eclipse GT was often praised for its V6 power and sporty styling in its segment, contributing to its popularity.

IIHS Ratings:

Refer to IIHS archives for specific crash test ratings for the 2003 model year; side-impact ratings were generally good with optional side airbags.