🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

2003

Chassis Codes:

D52A (Coupe), D53A (Convertible)

Engine Codes:

4G63 (2.4L SOHC), 4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged)

Transmission Codes:

F5M33 (5-speed Manual), F4A42 (4-speed Automatic), V5M33 (5-speed Manual AWD)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (third generation) was positioned as an affordable, sporty coupe and convertible, targeting younger buyers and enthusiasts seeking style and performance without a premium price tag. It competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, and Ford Focus.

Strengths:

Available all-wheel drive (AWD) on the GT trim, optional powerful V6 engine, distinctive styling. The GT model's 4G63T turbo engine option (though not in the US market for this generation of Eclipse, it was in the previous) and the subsequent GTS model's 3.0L V6 made it competitive in performance for its class. The manual covers the robust 4G63 engine family, known for its tunability.

Vehicle Features:

Sporty coupe and convertible body styles, front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, optional powerful V6 engine (3.0L SOHC V6, 6G72), available 2.4L inline-4 engine, and historically the availability of turbocharged engines in prior generations which influenced the enthusiast market for the model line.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Page Count:

Approximately 1500+ pages (estimated for comprehensive FSM)

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (4G63, 4G63T), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Engine electrical, Manual Transmission (FWD/AWD), Automatic Transmission.

Chassis:

Front suspension, Rear suspension, Steering system, Brake system (ABS/Non-ABS), Driveline (FWD/AWD).

Body & Electrical:

Body panels and structure, Interior trim, HVAC system, Lighting system, Power accessories (windows, locks), Audio system, Wiring diagrams, Diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and changes, Spark plug replacement, Belt replacement.

Repair:

Engine assembly/disassembly, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper and rotor service, Power steering system repair, AC system servicing, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, Component testing procedures, Wiring schematic interpretation, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) information.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and component alignment procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.4L SOHC Inline-4 (4G64)

Engine 1 Displacement:

2351 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

86.5 mm x 101.4 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

147 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

158 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

SOHC, 16 Valves

Engine 2:

3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2972 cc

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

200 hp @ 5500 rpm (GT/GTS trims)

Engine 2 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (GT/GTS trims)

Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

SOHC, 24 Valves

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

14.5 gallons (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Std 2.4L:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (F5M33)

Transmission Std V6:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (F4A42)

Transmission Opt V6:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (V5M33) with AWD (GT trim)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

DIAQueen ATF-SP-II M or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or SAE 75W-85 for some units)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.7 inches

Width:

69.1 inches

Height:

50.5 inches (Coupe), 50.6 inches (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches

Front Track:

59.6 inches

Rear Track:

59.6 inches

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Wheel Size Std:

16 x 6.0 inches

Wheel Size Opt:

17 x 7.0 inches (GT/GTS)

Tire Size Std:

205/55R16

Tire Size Opt:

215/50R17 (GT/GTS)

Curb Weight Est:

3000-3300 lbs (depending on trim/drivetrain)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (2003 Model)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (2003 Model)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Good (2003 Model)

ABS:

Standard on GT/GTS, optional on base/ES

Traction Control:

Available on GT AWD

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual Frontal Airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional Side Curtain Airbags (Coupe specific, availability varies)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Base AM/FM/CD player, optional premium Rockford Fosgate audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Display:

Analog gauges, basic digital odometer and trip computer. No integrated navigation or touch screen.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trims

OBD Ii:

Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic port

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe use); 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal use), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium)

Spark Plug Replacement 6Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 miles or 7 years (4-cylinder 4G64 engine - requires replacement as it's an interference engine)

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000 miles or 48 months

Engine Oil Type:

API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5/GF-6A, SAE 5W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DIALCOOL-ULTRA (Long Life, Pink) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF

Common Issues:

Interior trim degradation (sticky dash, peeling coatings), catalytic converter failure (especially on higher mileage V6 models), starter motor issues, power window regulator failures, AC system leaks (evaporator core), potential for wheel bearing noise, some instances of oil consumption with the 4G64 engine.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors, a Japanese automaker, has a long history dating back to 1917. Known for robust engineering and innovative designs, especially in performance vehicles and SUVs.

Eclipse Gen 3:

The 2003 model is part of the third generation (2000-2005) of the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This generation saw a significant redesign from the previous generations, moving to a more rounded, aggressive styling and sharing its platform with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus.

Manufacturing Location:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While the third generation Eclipse didn't receive major individual awards like some competitors, it maintained a strong following for its styling and value proposition in the sports coupe segment during its production run. It was often noted for its aggressive styling at its price point.