Market Segment:
Sport Compact / Coupe
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Mustang (V6)
Design Philosophy:
Aerodynamic styling, sporty handling, accessible performance
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented buyers, tuners
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, drive shafts, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front and rear disc, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instruments and controls, power accessories, body electrical, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, HVAC system, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution
Adjustments:
Alignment procedures, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, idle speed adjustments
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and specifications
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on specific diagnostic tools and procedures applicable to the 1996 model year
File Type:
Likely printed (high-quality paper), or digital (searchable PDF)
Print Quality:
High-quality, durable paper stock for longevity in a workshop environment
Binding Type:
Professional binding (e.g., spiral bound, perfect bound) for ease of use and durability
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty, smudge-resistant paper suitable for workshop conditions
Engine Option 1:
2.4L 4G64 SOHC I4
Engine Option 2:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC Turbo I4 (GST, GSX models)
Horsepower 4G64:
140 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 4G64:
145 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 4G63T:
210 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4G63T:
214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane recommended for Turbo)
Block Material:
Cast iron (4G64), Semi-closed deck cast iron (4G63T)
Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities
Standard Transmission Na:
5-speed manual (F5M33)
Standard Transmission Turbo:
5-speed manual (W5M33 AWD)
Optional Transmission Na:
4-speed automatic (F4A33)
Optional Transmission Turbo:
4-speed automatic (V4A51 AWD)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard on many NA models, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on GSX and optional on GST
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond SP III (or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Length Coupe:
180.1 inches (4574 mm)
Width:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height Coupe:
51.6 inches (1311 mm)
Curb Weight Na FWD:
Approx. 2900 lbs (1315 kg)
Curb Weight Turbo AWD:
Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not prominently rated for 1996 model year, early 2nd gen had mixed results.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on GSX, optional on other trims
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often paired with AWD models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and chassis structure (coupe); specific rollover protection in convertible
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Timing Belt Interval:
105,000 miles or 7 years (for 4G63/4G64 engines). Critical replacement item.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III ATF or specific Mitsubishi fluid
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected, turbocharger failure on high-mileage 4G63T engines, cracked exhaust manifolds.
Common Issues Transmission:
Slipping in automatic transmissions, clutch wear on manuals, AWD transfer case issues on high-mileage AWD models.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links. Strut and shock absorber wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistors, intermittent dashboard lights.
Common Issues Body:
Rust in wheel wells and rocker panels, peeling clear coat, interior plastic brittleness.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Long history in motorsports and automotive engineering, known for reliable and performance-oriented vehicles.
Eclipse Generations:
First generation (1989-1994) known for its sporty design and available turbo engine. Second generation (1995-1999) featured a more rounded, aerodynamic styling and introduced AWD on performance models.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Normal, Illinois) by Diamond-Star Motors (DSM), a joint venture with Chrysler.
Production Years:
1995-1999 (2nd Generation)
Automotive Journalism Awards:
The 1990s Mitsubishi Eclipse, particularly the Turbo models, received acclaim for performance and value in automotive reviews of its era.
Jd Power Ratings:
Specific ratings for 1996 model not readily available, but the 2nd gen generally saw average to good initial quality scores for its class.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets US EPA emissions standards for the 1996 model year.
