Segment:
Compact Sports Car / Coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented buyers, young adults
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Toyota Celica, Ford Focus SVT
Styling:
Distinctive aerodynamic and aggressive styling, available as a coupe and convertible (Spyder).
Performance:
Focus on sporty handling and accessible performance, with a capable V6 option.
Utility:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Engine Variants:
2.4L 4G64 (SOHC), 3.0L 6G72 (SOHC V6)
Trim Levels:
GS, GT (and potentially related variations like Spyder)
Estimated Pages:
~2000-2500 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory-level manual)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic & Manual), clutch system, driveline components (axles, CV joints), differentials
Chassis:
Suspension system (front & rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS)
Electrical:
Starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body electricals, power accessories, HVAC controls, SRS (Airbag) system, ECU diagnostics
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, HVAC system airflow and components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, specifications for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Standard Transmission Gs:
5-Speed Manual
Standard Transmission Gt:
5-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission Gs:
4-Speed Automatic
Optional Transmission Gt:
4-Speed Automatic with Shiftronic (paddle shifters on some models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
DiaQueen SPII or equivalent ATF (check manual for exact spec, likely Dexron III/VI compatible)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Final Drive Ratio Gs Manual:
4.300:1
Final Drive Ratio Gt Manual:
4.067:1
NHTSA Rollover Rating Coupe:
4 out of 5 stars
ABS:
Standard on GT, optional on GS
Traction Control:
Optional (often bundled with ABS or specific trims)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 3 years.
Spark Plugs Replacement 4G64:
Every 60,000 miles (Iridium type)
Spark Plugs Replacement 6G72:
Every 100,000 miles (Iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement 4G64:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item)
Engine Oil 4G64:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).
Engine Oil 6G72:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol Based Antifreeze (Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Automatic Transmission Problems:
Occasional issues with torque converter shudder, delayed engagement, or solenoid failures. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration, especially at idle.
Evap Emissions System:
Canister purge valve or vent solenoid failures can cause Check Engine Lights.
Power Window Motors:
Degradation of power window regulators and motors can occur over time.
Mitsubishi Motors:
Japanese manufacturer with a history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, known for models like the Lancer Evolution.
Eclipse Generations:
The 2005 model is part of the third generation (2000-2005), a redesign from the original DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) collaboration. It moved to the Chrysler P-platform.
Assembly Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (under the Diamond-Star Motors joint venture, though fully integrated by this generation).
Production Years Third Gen
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varies by model year and specific issues; often ranked average to below average in reliability for this generation compared to competitors.
Automotive Journalism Mentions:
Praised for styling and V6 performance, but sometimes criticized for interior materials and ride quality compared to class leaders.