Segment:
Sport compact, affordable sports coupe/convertible
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Nissan 240SX, Toyota Celica, Mazda MX-6
Design:
Aerodynamic styling, sporty interior, available convertible option
Performance Variants:
Available in base models with naturally aspirated engines and higher-performance GT models (often with V6 and AWD options).
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, affordable, and often peppy sports car.
Engine Mechanical:
2.4L SOHC (4G64), 3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72), 3.0L DOHC V6 (6G72 - GT trims)
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, turbocharging (for specific GT models)
Transmission Manual:
5-speed manual (F5M33/F5M42)
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic (F4A42)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), All-wheel drive (AWD - for GT trims)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link independent suspension
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, Rear discs (ABS optional/standard on higher trims)
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, body electronics, instrument cluster
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, structural repairs, glass replacement
Interior:
Seat removal/installation, trim panels, dashboard components
Safety Systems:
Airbag systems, seatbelt pre-tensioners
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston ring installation, timing belt/chain service, valve adjustments
Transmission Service:
Fluid changes, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter service (automatic), transmission overhaul
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump service
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS diagnostics
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting common electrical faults, starter motor and alternator testing
HVAC Repair:
Refrigerant system service, blower motor replacement, heater core service
Bodywork Procedures:
Dent repair, panel alignment, bumper replacement, headlight/taillight replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting
Special Tools Required:
Identification and usage of specialized tools for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and fault finding for all major systems.
Specifications Provided:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations.
Engine Code 1:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC I4)
Displacement 1:
2351 cc (2.4 L)
Horsepower 1:
145-154 hp (depending on year/tune)
Torque 1:
158-162 lb-ft (depending on year/tune)
Fuel System 1:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6)
Displacement 2:
2972 cc (3.0 L)
Horsepower 2:
197-205 hp (depending on year/tune)
Torque 2:
205-210 lb-ft (depending on year/tune)
Fuel System 2:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Code 3:
6G72 (3.0L DOHC V6 - GT)
Horsepower 3:
205 hp (GT, early years), 210 hp (GT, later years)
Torque 3:
205 lb-ft (GT, early years), 214 lb-ft (GT, later years)
Fuel System 3:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system
Type 1:
5-speed Manual (F5M33/F5M42)
Type 2:
4-speed Automatic (F4A42)
AWD Option:
Available on select GT models with V6 engines.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for specific type)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA Queen ATF-SP II M or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2000-2002 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2000-2002 models)
IIHS Front Offset Driver:
Good (2000-2003 models)
ABS:
Optional on lower trims, standard on GT and higher trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on select models.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher is generally recommended. Specific viscosity may vary by climate and engine. (Consult manual for exact specification).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 70,000 miles (96,000 - 112,000 km) for 4-cylinder engines (4G64). V6 engines use a timing chain, which typically does not require replacement unless noisy.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for initial fill, then typically every 30,000 miles thereafter. Use of Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant is recommended.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific type).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid - confirm in manual).
Engine Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or compatible equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, especially on V6 models, leading to excessive vibration.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Potential failure of the timing belt tensioner on 4-cylinder engines, leading to belt slippage or breakage.
Automatic Transmission:
Some instances of automatic transmission failure or slipping, particularly in high-mileage vehicles or those not properly maintained.
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure or clogging of the catalytic converter, often due to engine misfires or rich fuel mixture.
Headlights:
Clouding or hazing of headlight lenses.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Brand Focus:
Mitsubishi has a history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and coupes.
Generation:
This is the third generation (3G) of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, introduced for the 2000 model year.
Design Change:
Significant redesign from the previous generation, moving to a more rounded and aerodynamic aesthetic. The Spyder convertible version was also offered concurrently.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Years:
2000-2005 (for model years 2000-2006)
