🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

2003

Platform Code:

4G (D52)

Chassis Code:

D52

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact sports coupe/convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, performance-oriented buyers, DIY mechanics.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang (V6), Chevrolet Camaro (V6), Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V.

Competitive Advantage Of Vehicle:

Offered with potent V6 engine options and all-wheel drive (GT models), providing performance often found in higher segments.

Performance Options:

Available naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and a potent V6 engine. GT models offered AWD.

Design And Styling:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, available in coupe and convertible body styles.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge typically reserved for dealership service departments, enabling owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America (USA, Canada)

Regional Variants Covered:

USDM (United States Domestic Market), CdnDM (Canadian Domestic Market)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Distinction From Owner Manual:

Detailed diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures for technicians and advanced DIYers, unlike the basic operation and feature guide of an Owner's Manual.

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine management (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging systems.

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission (F5M33, W6MG1), Automatic transmission (F4A51, V4A51), drivelines, axles, differentials, AWD system (if applicable).

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (ABS, disc/drum configurations), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Body electrical, lighting, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control, instrument cluster, infotainment, wiring diagrams (detailed schematics).

Body And Frame:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, structural components, glass, seals, collision repair information.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine services (oil changes, filter replacements), tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements, belt and hose inspection/replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component removal/installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), electrical circuit testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing.

Specification And Adjustment:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, valve clearances, timing belt tension, wheel alignment specifications, idle speed adjustments.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content (depending on OCR quality if scanned)

Printability:

Printable pages for offline reference

Image Resolution:

Variable, but typically clear enough for illustration detail

Physical Format Implication:

If printed: likely spiral-bound or professionally bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Physical Format Implication:

If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.4L I4:

4G64 (SOHC)

Displacement 2.4L I4:

2351 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower 2.4L I4:

147 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque 2.4L I4:

158 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code 2.4L I4 Turbo:

4G64T (DOHC, turbocharger)

Displacement 2.4L I4 Turbo:

2351 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower 2.4L I4 Turbo:

205 hp @ 5500 rpm (GT-S)

Torque 2.4L I4 Turbo:

205 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (GT-S)

Engine Code 3.0L V6:

6G72 (SOHC)

Displacement 3.0L V6:

2972 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower 3.0L V6:

200 hp @ 6000 rpm (GT)

Torque 3.0L V6:

205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (GT)

Engine Control Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with ECU control.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, higher octane for Turbo/GT models).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (F5M33) for base and GT models.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (F4A51) for base and GT models.

Performance Transmission Gt S:

5-speed manual transmission (W6MG1) for GT-S models.

All Wheel Drive:

Available on GT and GT-S models, typically paired with a manual transmission.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift control, overdrive gear.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.0 inches (4547 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

53.1 inches (1350 mm) (coupe), 53.9 inches (1370 mm) (convertible)

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Cargo Volume Coupe:

Approximately 10.3 cu ft

Cargo Volume Convertible:

Approximately 5.0 cu ft (with top up)

Curb Weight Base Coupe:

Approximately 2,900 lbs (1315 kg)

Curb Weight Gt AWD Coupe:

Approximately 3,300 lbs (1497 kg)

Curb Weight Gt S AWD Coupe:

Approximately 3,400 lbs (1542 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

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

Tire Sizes:

16-inch (205/55R16), 17-inch (215/50R17 on GT/GT-S)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4-star (for models with optional side airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4-star (for models with optional side airbags)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good (for models with specific design features)

ABS:

Standard on GT and GT-S models, optional on base models.

Traction Control:

Available on some GT models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional front-seat side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Standard pop-up roll bars for convertible models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Display Technology:

Basic analog gauges and digital odometer. No advanced infotainment screens or touchscreens.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

OBD Ii Port:

Standard 16-pin OBD-II diagnostic port, enabling use of scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data monitoring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement I4:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical for 4G64 engine to prevent catastrophic failure).

Engine Oil Type API:

API SG, SH, or SJ classification.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 recommended. Refer to manual for variations based on temperature.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi coolant specifications.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in manual).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon compliant fluids may be acceptable, consult manual).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Timing Belt Failure:

Critical failure risk on the 4G64 engine if not replaced at recommended intervals; can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).

Oil Sludge Buildup:

Can occur in the 4G64 engine, especially with extended oil change intervals or poor maintenance. Regular oil changes are crucial.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Some models can experience slipping or hard shifting due to wear or fluid degradation. Proper fluid maintenance is key.

Cv Axle Wear:

Especially on AWD models, constant velocity (CV) joints can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns.

Oxygen Sensor Failure:

Can lead to check engine lights and poor fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors History:

Established in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its diverse range of vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, and performance cars. The company has a significant history in motorsports and engineering innovation.

Eclipse Generation 1:

1989-1994. Shared platform with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon (Diamond Star Motors joint venture).

Eclipse Generation 2:

1995-1999. Major redesign, became a standalone Mitsubishi model. Introduced turbocharged AWD variants.

Eclipse Generation 3:

2000-2005. This generation includes the 2003 model. Characterized by a more aggressive, bulbous styling. The V6 engine option became prominent.

Manufacturing Location:

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

Production Years For This Generation:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best List:

The Eclipse GT-S was recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1990 (previous generation), but the third generation did not receive similar accolades, focusing more on style and V6 power.

Initial Release Reception:

The third generation Eclipse was generally well-received for its styling and the availability of the V6 engine and AWD, though it faced stiff competition in the sport compact market.