Market Position:
Sporty coupe and convertible offering performance and style, competing with vehicles like the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, and Mazda MX-6.
Competitive Analysis:
The Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder, particularly the turbocharged AWD 'DSM' variants (Eclipse GSX/GST), were highly regarded for their performance-oriented powertrains and chassis, making them popular among enthusiasts.
Key Features:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD), turbocharged engines, sporty handling, distinctive styling, and a convertible option (Spyder).
Primary Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC, 2.0L 4G63 DOHC Turbocharged (DSM), 2.4L 4G64 SOHC, Engine Mechanical, Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
5-Speed Manual (F5M33, W5M33 AWD), 4-Speed Automatic (F4A22, F4A33 AWD), Clutch, Differentials, Driveshafts, Transfer Case (AWD)
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Power Steering System, Hydraulic Power Brake System, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Component Replacement and Service
Electrical HVAC Body:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrument Cluster, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Climate Control (HVAC), Audio System, Power Windows, Power Locks, Convertible Top Mechanism (Spyder)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flush, Belt Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Service, Battery Maintenance, Tune-Up Procedures
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Turbocharger Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Convertible Top Repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fuel System Diagnosis, Ignition System Diagnosis, Electrical Fault Finding, Vacuum Leak Detection
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Options:
2.0L DOHC 16V 4G63 SOHC (non-turbo), 2.0L DOHC 16V 4G63 Turbocharged (DOHC), 2.4L SOHC 16V 4G64
2.0L Turbo (4G63T) Power Output:
Approximately 205-210 hp (early models), 210-225 hp (later models) and 203-205 lb-ft torque.
2.0L Non-Turbo (4G63) Power Output:
Approximately 135-140 hp and 135-140 lb-ft torque.
2.4L (4G64) Power Output:
Approximately 141-147 hp and 157-162 lb-ft torque.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic
AWD Availability:
Available on select performance models (e.g., GSX, GST) utilizing a viscous coupling center differential and rear limited-slip differential.
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity typically 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF SP-II, SP-III, or equivalent
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
Approx. 178.0 inches (4521 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.8 inches (1316 mm) (Coupe), Approx. 51.4 inches (1306 mm) (Spyder)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,900 - 3,300 lbs (1315 - 1497 kg)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific test; generally mixed reviews for early models, improved in later generations. Consult NHTSA archives for specific year data.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some AWD models)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags, crumple zones, reinforced side impact door beams, three-point seat belts.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems. Limited factory infotainment features by modern standards.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS and Traction Control were the primary advanced driver assistance features available.
Connectivity:
No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity; aftermarket upgrades are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) / 12 months (normal duty).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for 4G63 engines. Check manual for 4G64.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000 miles for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for specific climate/engine).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. (e.g., Genuine Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issues:
Turbocharger failure (especially on high-mileage or modified 4G63T engines), clutch wear, automatic transmission issues, window motor failures, convertible top hydraulic leaks/failures, rust on body panels, interior plastic brittleness, O2 sensor failures, catalytic converter issues.
Oem Oil Filter Part Number:
MD095177 (example, verify for specific engine)
Oem Air Filter Part Number:
MR188118 (example, verify for specific engine)
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing sporty and performance-oriented vehicles, including predecessors like the Starion and in-house performance divisions.
First Generation Eclipse Spyder:
Introduced in 1995 as a convertible variant of the second-generation Eclipse (1995-1999), featuring a powered soft-top. The Spyder offered both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants.
Production Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)
Production Years For Second Gen:
1995-1999 (coupe and Spyder)
