🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

2000

Generation:

Third Generation (1999-2005)

Chassis Codes:

DE2A (Front-wheel drive), DE3A (All-wheel drive - GT model)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Sporty coupe and convertible targeting the compact performance segment. Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra GS-R, Toyota Celica GT-S, and Ford Focus SVT.

Competitive Analysis:

The third-generation Eclipse transitioned from a sharp, angular design to a more rounded, aerodynamic profile. While losing some of its predecessor's aggressive styling, it offered a comfortable interior and a range of engine options, including the potent 3.0L V6, making it a strong contender in its class.

Key Features:

Available in coupe and convertible body styles. Choice of 2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.0L V6 engines. Available all-wheel drive (GT model). Sporty handling and comfortable ride. Attractive styling for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, Asia

Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for complete factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance & Controls, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain Components (CVT on some models), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Body & Frame, Exterior Trim & Panels, Interior Trim & Components, Climate Control System (HVAC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Lighting System, Instrument Panel & Gauges, Audio System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Diagnostics and Troubleshooting, Component Removal and Installation, Component Repair and Reassembly, Electrical Component Testing, Wiring Harness Repair, Fluid Changes and Flushes, Brake System Service, Suspension Alignment and Adjustment, Steering System Repair, Engine Tune-up Procedures, Clutch Replacement, Transmission Service, Differential Service, Emissions Control System Servicing, Body Panel Repair, Interior Component Replacement, HVAC System Servicing, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, including detailed diagnostic trees, torque specifications, repair procedures, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and component testing data. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format or PDF (searchable)

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and text reproduction (if printable)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 4 Cyl:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (4G64)

Engine Displacement 4 Cyl:

2351 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke 4 Cyl:

86.5 mm x 100.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 4 Cyl:

9.5:1

Engine Horsepower 4 Cyl:

152 hp @ 5700 rpm

Engine Torque 4 Cyl:

162 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Primary Engine V6:

3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72)

Engine Displacement V6:

2972 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke V6:

86.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio V6:

9.0:1

Engine Horsepower V6:

205 hp @ 5750 rpm

Engine Torque V6:

205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Performance Gt AWD:

GT models with AWD offered enhanced acceleration and stability, with the V6 providing brisk performance.

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 octane for 4-cyl), Unleaded Premium (91 octane recommended for V6)

Engine Oil 4 Cyl Capacity:

4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Engine Oil V6 Capacity:

4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30, meeting API SJ or higher classification

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Spark Plug Gap 4 Cyl:

0.039 - 0.043 inches (1.0 - 1.1 mm)

Spark Plug Gap V6:

0.039 - 0.043 inches (1.0 - 1.1 mm)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 4 Cyl:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Standard Transmission V6:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Optional Transmission 4 Cyl:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Optional Transmission V6:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (on GT models)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-III or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:

Approximately 8.1 US Quarts (7.7 Liters) for a complete drain and fill

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (check specific model for exact spec)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approximately 2.3 US Quarts (2.2 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length Coupe:

178.7 inches (4539 mm)

Exterior Width Coupe:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Exterior Height Coupe:

53.0 inches (1346 mm)

Exterior Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Exterior Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.0 inches (127 mm)

Wheel Size Standard:

16 inch alloy wheels

Wheel Size Optional Gt:

17 inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Standard:

P205/55R16

Tire Size Gt:

215/50R17

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Curb Weight 4 Cyl Manual:

Approx. 3042 lbs (1380 kg)

Curb Weight V6 Auto:

Approx. 3197 lbs (1450 kg)

Curb Weight Gt AWD Auto:

Approx. 3472 lbs (1575 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:

4-star (2000 models)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:

4-star (2000 models)

IIHS Offset Crash Rating:

Acceptable (for models with side airbags, if equipped)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, Traction Control System (TCS) available on V6 models (especially GT AWD)

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cabin.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape player. Premium sound system options available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. ABS and TCS were the primary driver assistance features.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory. Auxiliary input for aftermarket audio devices may be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement 4 Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (use iridium-tipped plugs for longevity)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years (critical on 4-cylinder engine due to interference design)

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km)

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 50,000 - 75,000 miles (80,000 - 120,000 km)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years

Known Issues:

Premature catalytic converter failure (especially on 4-cylinder models), issues with power window regulators, potential for seized brake calipers, some reports of automatic transmission wear, timing belt failure on 4-cylinder if not replaced on schedule.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history of producing reliable and sporty vehicles, often known for their innovative technology and performance-oriented models, including rally heritage.

Model Evolution:

The third-generation Eclipse (1999-2005) marked a significant departure from the second generation's design. It was co-developed with Chrysler and shared a platform with the Chrysler Sebring Coupe and Dodge Avenger. This generation emphasized a more refined and global design language.

Production Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2000 model year are scarce, the Eclipse platform generally received positive reviews for its styling and performance for its class during its production run.