Model:
Eclipse, Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser
Model Variants Covered:
Eclipse (GS, GS-T, GT, RS), Eagle Talon (ES, ESi, TSi), Plymouth Laser (RS, RS Turbo)
Platform Code:
D30/D32 (Galant Platform)
Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe / Performance Sedan
Competitors:
Acura Integra, Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe, Nissan 240SX
Distinction:
Shared platform with Mitsubishi Galant, available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and potent turbocharged engines (4G63T), establishing them as affordable performance icons.
Synergy:
The manual consolidates information across three badge-engineered models, offering a unified resource for technicians and enthusiasts.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical (4G63, 4G63T, 6G72), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Turbocharger System (for specific variants)
Drivetrain:
Manual Transaxle (F5M33, F5M42), Automatic Transaxle (V4A51), Clutch System, Drive Axles, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering System (Power Assisted Rack and Pinion), Brake System (Front: Disc, Rear: Disc/Drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Windows, Power Locks, Audio System, HVAC Controls, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and Sensors, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / Airbags
Body And Interior:
Body Panel Repair, Door Mechanisms, Seat Mechanisms, Trim Components, HVAC Ducts, Sunroof (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tire Rotation
Repair:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuild, Transmission Removal and Installation, Clutch Replacement, Brake Caliper and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Wiring Harness Continuity Checks
Special Procedures:
Turbocharger System Maintenance and Repair, Fuel Injection System Servicing, ABS System Bleeding and Diagnostics, Airbag System Safety Precautions and Replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive - Covers from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC I4, 16-valve), 6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6, 24-valve)
Engine Code Turbocharged:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC I4, 16-valve Turbocharged)
Performance Naturally Aspirated
2.0L I4 (4G63):
Approx. 135-145 HP @ 6000 RPM, 135-145 lb-ft Torque @ 4000 RPM
3.0L V6 (6G72):
Approx. 195-205 HP @ 6000 RPM, 200-210 lb-ft Torque @ 4500 RPM
2.0L Turbo I4 (4G63T):
Approx. 205-210 HP @ 6000 RPM, 203-205 lb-ft Torque @ 3000 RPM (for GS-T/TSi/Laser Turbo)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Required Octane:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded) for naturally aspirated; 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded) recommended for turbocharged models.
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Performance Transmission Gs T
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (F5M33 or F5M42 depending on specific VIN/market) with optional Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VCLSD) on AWD models.
Automatic Option:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (V4A51) often available on AWD turbo models.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, viscosity SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MITSUBISHI Genuine ATF J2 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon)
Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (1997 Model Year)
Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (1997 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard on most higher trims (GS-T, GT, TSi), optional on others. Typically a 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS) standard on most models from 1997 onwards, mandated by regulations.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette Player with optional CD Changer. Basic digital display for tuner, clock.
HVAC:
Manual climate control with A/C. Some models featured automatic climate control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common options or standard on higher trims.
Oem Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant from 1996 onwards, facilitating engine diagnostics with scan tools.
Service Intervals Oil Change
Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Interval 4G63:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for 4G63 engines. Crucial for 4G63T engines due to interference design.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Interval 4G63:
Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, potentially longer for iridium/platinum.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, Viscosity SAE 5W-30. Consult manual for specific weight based on climate.
Coolant:
MITSUBISHI DiaQueen SUPER LONG LIFE COOLANT (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
4G63T Turbo Wear:
Turbocharger oil feed lines can clog, leading to turbo failure if oil changes are neglected. Exceeding oil change intervals on the 4G63T is particularly damaging.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts are common with age and mileage.
Automatic Transmission:
Some automatic transmissions can experience hard shifting or failure, especially if not maintained with proper fluid changes.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi's reputation for robust, performance-oriented vehicles, especially with the 4G63 engine, which powered their rally cars.
Eclipse Generation:
Second Generation (1995-1999). This generation introduced more aerodynamic styling and a significant increase in refinement and performance, particularly with the turbocharged models.
Badge Engineering:
The Eclipse, Talon, and Laser were part of Chrysler's Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture, sharing the same platform and many components but offering distinct styling and trim levels.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors Plant)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX (AWD Turbo) and Eagle Talon TSi AWD were frequently lauded by automotive publications like Car and Driver for their performance and value during this era.
Consumer Reports:
Varies by year and specific model. While praised for performance, earlier models or those with less diligent maintenance could exhibit average reliability ratings.
Manual Accuracy:
Authentic factory service manual content, ensuring accuracy for OEM procedures and specifications.
