Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Launch Era:
Entry into the increasingly popular affordable sports car market of the early 90s.
Key Competitors:
Mazda RX-7 (FC), Toyota MR2 (SW20), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Ford Probe
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a distinctive cockpit-like interior.
Performance Options:
Available turbocharged engines offered competitive performance for the price point.
AWD Availability:
The availability of AWD on turbocharged models further enhanced its performance credentials.
Engine:
1.8L 4G93 SOHC, 2.0L 4G63 DOHC (Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged)
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD - for Turbo models)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-Link
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (ABS optional)
Electrical:
Full system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulation
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipework, emissions control
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal, interior trim, seating, glass
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation controls and components
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power windows, locks, wipers, mirrors
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Engine mechanical, transmission overhaul, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical repairs
Diagnostics:
OBD-I codes (where applicable), component testing, sensor data interpretation
Engine Rebuild:
Piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder head, valve train procedures
Transmission Service:
Fluid flush/change, seal replacement, clutch replacement (manual), internal component repair (automatic)
Brake Service:
Pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, ABS bleeding
Electrical Diagnosis:
Wiring harness tracing, component testing with multimeter/oscilloscope, common electrical faults
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA in modern standards, but generally considered safe for its era.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated by IIHS.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional, particularly on higher trims and turbo models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, height adjustable.
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bar in convertible models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic or high-quality conventional oil.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with oil change. Common filter part number: Mitsubishi MD097243 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3500, Wix 51356).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles. NGK BPR6ES-11 or equivalent.
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 4 years on 4G63 engines. Mitsubishi part number: MD184913 or equivalent. Crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Use a 50/50 mix of distilled water and ethylene glycol coolant (e.g., Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 4G63; 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) for 4G93.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 recommended for most conditions. Consult manual for specific temperature ranges.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: 2.2 US quarts (2.1 L).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF. Capacity: 3.7 US quarts (3.5 L) for change, 7.2 US quarts (6.8 L) for overhaul.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Turbo Models:
Turbocharger wear, blown head gaskets (especially if overheated), fuel injector clogs, clutch wear.
General:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (radiator, hoses), catalytic converter failure, O2 sensor failure, rust (especially in certain climates).
Electrical:
Intermittent electrical gremlins due to aging wiring and connectors, faulty power window motors, wiper motor issues.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Founded in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer.
Eclipse Generation 1:
The 1992 model is part of the first generation (1989-1994) of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, co-developed with Chrysler Corporation as part of the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture.
Dsm Platform:
Shared platform with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)