🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Product Name:

Mitsubishi Eclipse 2003 2004 2005 Workshop Manual

Generation:

Third Generation (2000-2005)

Chassis Codes:

2003-2005: D53A

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for their Eclipse.

Competitors:

Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX (earlier models).

Styling:

Distinctive 'bug-eye' or 'flying buttress' styling in the third generation, known for its aggressive and sporty appearance.

Performance Options:

Available with a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder or a potent V6 engine, with some models featuring a turbocharged engine for enhanced performance.

Completeness:

The 'real deal' with A-Z coverage for all repairs, mechanical and electrical.

Usability:

Designed for practical use by technicians and DIY mechanics, with emphasis on detailed visuals and clear instructions.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All Mitsubishi Eclipse models for the 2003, 2004, and 2005 model years.

Regions Covered:

Primarily North American market specifications, with potential applicability to other global markets depending on regional variations.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, but typically over 1000 pages for comprehensive workshop manuals covering all aspects.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), printable pages

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, exhaust system, turbocharging (for specific models), emission controls.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear selection, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control, lubrication.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive system (if applicable), differential, drive shafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components (master cylinder, calipers, lines), brake pads, rotors, parking brake, ABS system.

Electrical System Overview:

Battery, charging system, starting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb specifications.

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, warning lights, instrument cluster diagnostics.

Comfort Controls:

HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant.

Infotainment Audio:

Audio system, speakers, antenna, radio removal/installation.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Seats, upholstery, dashboard, door panels, headliner, interior trim, airbags.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, symptom-based diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Component Replacement:

Detailed steps for replacing major and minor components across all systems.

Engine Rebuilding:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures, including torque specifications.

Transmission Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for the complete overhaul of both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper and master cylinder service, brake fluid bleeding.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rods, power steering pump, and steering rack.

Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:

Tracing electrical faults, repair of wiring harnesses, component testing, use of multimeter.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator), leak detection.

Body And Trim Repair:

Body panel alignment, bumper repair, interior trim installation and removal.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all mechanical and electrical repairs from basic maintenance to complete component overhauls and diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Extremely high, with detailed step-by-step instructions, specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Includes tons of detailed pictures and diagrams for clarity and accuracy.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems.

Torque Specifications:

Includes critical torque specifications for fasteners across all mechanical components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, ensuring broad compatibility and searchability.

Printable:

All pages are stated to be printable, allowing for physical reference in a workshop environment.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear, discernible images and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gs Gt:

4G64

Engine Description Gs Gt:

2.4L Inline-4 SOHC (16-valve)

Displacement Gs Gt:

2351 cc

Bore Gs Gt:

86.5 mm

Stroke Gs Gt:

96.0 mm

Compression Ratio Gs Gt:

8.5:1

Horsepower Gs Gt:

147 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque Gs Gt:

162 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code Gts V6:

6G72

Engine Description Gts V6:

3.0L V6 SOHC (24-valve) MIVEC (later models)

Displacement Gts V6:

2972 cc

Bore Gts V6:

86.0 mm

Stroke Gts V6:

84.8 mm

Compression Ratio Gts V6:

9.0:1 (approx.)

Horsepower Gts V6:

205 hp @ 6000 rpm (non-MIVEC), 210 hp @ 6000 rpm (MIVEC)

Torque Gts V6:

205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (non-MIVEC), 207 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (MIVEC)

Engine Code Gti Turbo:

4G64T (Turbocharged variant of 4G64)

Engine Description Gti Turbo:

2.4L Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged (16-valve)

Horsepower Gti Turbo:

Approx. 200 hp (specific figures may vary)

Torque Gti Turbo:

Approx. 215 lb-ft (specific figures may vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 14.7 US gallons (55.6 liters).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Gs Gt:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Gs Gt Auto:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Gts V6:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Gts V6 Auto:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Gti Turbo:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag)

Drive Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

AWD Availability:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was available on some GTS V6 models, particularly the GTS-SE.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Consult manual for specific Mitsubishi P/N)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen J2 ATF or equivalent (Consult manual for specific Mitsubishi P/N)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 177.7 inches (4513 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Height:

Approximately 53.9 inches (1370 mm) for Coupe, 54.1 inches (1374 mm) for Convertible

Wheelbase:

Approximately 101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Front Track:

Approximately 60.2 inches (1530 mm)

Rear Track:

Approximately 59.4 inches (1510 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approximately 37.8 inches (960 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approximately 33.9 inches (861 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approximately 42.7 inches (1085 mm)

Rear Legroom:

Approximately 26.7 inches (678 mm)

Cargo Volume Coupe:

Approximately 9.4 cu ft (266 liters)

Cargo Volume Convertible:

Significantly less than coupe with top up, further reduced with top down.

Curb Weight Gs Gt:

Approximately 3050-3150 lbs (1383-1429 kg)

Curb Weight Gts V6:

Approximately 3200-3350 lbs (1451-1519 kg)

Curb Weight Gti Turbo:

Approximately 3250-3400 lbs (1474-1542 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult specific vehicle documentation.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for the 2003 model year, based on available data)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for the 2003 model year, based on available data)

IIHS Front Offset:

Acceptable (for the 2003 model year, based on available data)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on base models. Anti-lock Braking System.

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trim levels (e.g., GTS).

Electronic Brake Force Distribution:

Integrated with ABS for optimized braking performance.

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags available on some models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and structural enhancements for convertible models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level. Premium Infinity sound system optional on higher trims, often with a subwoofer.

Display:

Basic digital clock display and radio information. No color screens or advanced navigation typically found in this era.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

Aux Input:

Not typically available on factory head units of this era. Aftermarket solutions are common.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

Automatic Climate Control:

Optional on some GTS models.

Power Seats:

Driver's seat power adjustment available on select higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil). Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) with Iridium-tipped plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for 4-cylinder (4G64) engines as it is an interference engine. Recommended interval typically around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Consult manual for precise interval and related components (water pump, tensioner).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type Capacity:

SAE 5W-30, API SM/SN or newer. Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) for 2.4L, 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) for 3.0L V6 (with filter change). Verify exact capacity in manual.

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant. Green color specified for many models of this era. Capacity: ~7.0-8.0 US quarts (6.6-7.6 liters).

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent power steering fluid. Check reservoir for specific recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Sludge Build Up:

The 4G64 engine, particularly if not maintained with frequent oil changes, can be prone to oil sludge buildup, leading to lubrication issues. Regular oil changes with quality oil are critical.

Transmission Problems Auto:

Some automatic transmissions may experience occasional harsh shifting or delayed engagement. Fluid changes are important. Turbo models with 5-speed manual are generally robust but require proper clutch maintenance.

Suspension Wear:

Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings, especially on higher mileage vehicles. Strut mounts and bearings can also wear out.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical issues can arise, such as window regulator failures, power lock issues, or sensor faults. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable.

Catalytic Converter Failure:

Can occur due to engine issues (e.g., oil consumption, misfires) or simply age. Symptoms include loss of power and rattling noise.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some owners have reported exhaust manifold cracks, particularly on the V6 engines, leading to exhaust leaks and noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan. Known for its diverse range of vehicles, including performance cars and SUVs.

Eclipse First Gen:

1989-1994: Shared platform with Dodge Colt/Eagle Summit, known for its sporty styling and optional turbocharged engines (DSM connection).

Eclipse Second Gen:

1995-1999: Redesigned with a more aerodynamic profile, continued DSM variants (GST/GSX) with powerful turbo engines and AWD.

Eclipse Third Gen:

2000-2005: Complete redesign by Mitsubishi design studios, moving away from the DSM platform. Featured a more aggressive, somewhat polarizing 'bug-eye' styling. Offered FWD and optional AWD. This generation is covered by the manual.

Eclipse Fourth Gen:

2006-2011: Further evolution of styling and platform, eventually discontinued due to declining sales in the sports coupe segment.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a former joint venture with Chrysler).

Production Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005 model years.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Eclipse, particularly the GST/GSX models of the previous generation, received multiple '10Best' accolades from Car and Driver magazine for its performance and value. The third generation generally did not replicate this level of critical acclaim.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for this generation often placed it as average to below average in reliability and owner satisfaction compared to segment leaders, particularly the V6 models.

Safety Certifications:

Certified to meet all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).