🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

NC1 (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse (NC1) was positioned as a sporty, affordable coupe and convertible, competing with vehicles like the Honda Civic Coupe, Toyota Celica, and Ford Focus Coupe. It aimed to offer a blend of performance, style, and practicality for a younger demographic.

Competitive Analysis:

The Eclipse offered a choice between a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine and a more powerful V6, a differentiator against some competitors. Its styling, particularly the coupe, was a significant selling point. The availability of AWD on some V6 models provided an advantage over primarily FWD competitors.

Key Features:

Distinctive styling, choice of 4-cylinder (2.4L SOHC) or V6 (3.0L SOHC MIVEC) engines, available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on GT models, optional convertible body style, sporty handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered Overview:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Drivetrain (FWD/AWD), Brakes (ABS), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Body & Frame, Electrical System (Lighting, Power Accessories, HVAC), Diagnostics & Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications & Tolerances, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Special Tools.

Page Count:

Approximately 2000+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, engine block, timing belt/chain, oil pump, oil pan, seals, gaskets.

Engine Control System:

Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing (MAF, MAP, O2, TPS, CKP, CMP), actuator control (injectors, ignition coils), emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR).

Fuel System:

Fuel pump testing, fuel pressure regulation, fuel injectors, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, oxygen sensors, exhaust hangers and clamps.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fans, coolant hoses, coolant capacity and type.

Lubrication System:

Oil filter part number, oil capacity and type (e.g., SAE 5W-30 API SM/SN), oil pump operation, oil pressure testing.

Ignition System:

Spark plug type and gap, ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor (CKP), camshaft position sensor (CMP).

Starting System:

Starter motor diagnosis and replacement, battery testing and specifications.

Charging System:

Alternator output testing, voltage regulator, battery charging procedures.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch inspection and replacement, transmission fluid type (e.g., API GL-4 SAE 75W-90), gearshift mechanism, internal component service.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid type (e.g., ATF SP-III), torque converter, valve body, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics, fluid change intervals.

Drivetrain FWD:

Front drive axles, CV joints, differential service.

Drivetrain AWD:

Center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, viscous coupling unit (if applicable), AWD system servicing.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid type (e.g., DOT 3), bleeding procedures, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) component testing and diagnosis.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, stabilizer bar, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link or independent rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Body Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, interior trim, glass replacement, structural repair guidelines.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb types and replacement.

Electrical Power Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, power seats, sunroof operation and repair.

Electrical HVAC:

Air conditioning system operation, refrigerant type (R-134a), compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit diagnostics.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive color-coded electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, signal paths, and component locations.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.

Basic Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, battery inspection.

Intermediate Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, coolant flush and replacement, transmission fluid change, spark plug replacement, belt replacement (serpentine/timing), sensor replacement (e.g., MAF, O2), light bulb replacement, battery replacement.

Advanced Repair:

Engine component overhaul (head gasket, piston rings), transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms), steering rack replacement, fuel pump replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, radiator replacement, HVAC component service.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving mechanical, electrical, and electronic issues, including fault code retrieval and interpretation.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Detailed technical specifications and acceptable wear tolerances for all major components, crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures, ensuring safe and correct execution.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to specific information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (4G64) and 3.0L SOHC 24-valve V6 (6G72 MIVEC).

4G64 Engine Specs:

Displacement: 2351cc; Bore x Stroke: 86.5mm x 99.0mm; Compression Ratio: 9.5:1; Horsepower: 147 hp @ 5800 rpm; Torque: 158 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.

6G72 Mivec Engine Specs:

Displacement: 2972cc; Bore x Stroke: 86.0mm x 86.0mm; Compression Ratio: 9.0:1; Horsepower: 200 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (FWD); Horsepower: 205 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (AWD).

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Ignition System Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug for V6, Distributor with ignition coil for 4-cylinder.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 4Cyl:

5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M33-1) for 2.4L models.

Transmission Standard V6:

5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M33-1) for 3.0L GT models (FWD & AWD).

Transmission Optional 4Cyl:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (F4A42) for 2.4L models.

Transmission Optional V6:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (F4A51) for 3.0L GT models (FWD & AWD).

AWD System:

Active All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with viscous coupling unit on GT models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Length:

178.5 inches (4534 mm) (Coupe) / 178.0 inches (4521 mm) (Convertible)

Width:

71.0 inches (1803 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm) (Coupe) / 54.1 inches (1374 mm) (Convertible)

Curb Weight 2.4L:

Approx. 3065 lbs (1390 kg) (Coupe Manual)

Curb Weight 3.0L V6 AWD:

Approx. 3362 lbs (1525 kg) (Coupe GT AWD)

Curb Weight Convertible:

Approx. 3241 lbs (1470 kg) (V6 Convertible)

Cargo Volume Coupe:

Approx. 12.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Convertible:

Approx. 5.6 cu ft (with top up)

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Standard Tire Size 2.4L:

P215/60R16

Standard Tire Size Gt:

P225/50R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

Good

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable (as of 2006 testing)

ABS:

Standard on GT models, optional on other trims.

Traction Control:

Available on some V6 models.

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags on some models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player, optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, available navigation system on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, keyless entry, optional anti-lock brakes (ABS), optional traction control.

Connectivity Options:

Basic connectivity features like power windows and locks. No Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration was standard on this model.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles or 6 months for normal driving (check owner's manual for specific details).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 90,000 miles or 7 years for the 4-cylinder engine (refer to manual for V6 if applicable).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs, refer to manual for specific plug type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Recommended to inspect periodically; change every 30,000-60,000 miles based on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Recommended every 30,000 miles for severe driving, 60,000 miles for normal driving (check owner's manual for specific details).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SM or SN (check owner's manual).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 4-cylinder, 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter for V6.

Coolant Type:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi ATF SP-III (or equivalent).

Common Issues:

Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), potential for oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, occasional issues with automatic transmission shifting, interior trim piece fitment and durability, catalytic converter failure on higher mileage vehicles, potential for AC system leaks.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

The 4G64 engine's timing belt tensioner can sometimes fail, leading to belt slippage or breakage if not replaced proactively. The manual details the correct replacement procedure and torque specs.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its diverse range of vehicles, including sporty coupes and performance-oriented models. The Eclipse nameplate has been a significant part of Mitsubishi's identity in the North American market for performance and styling.

Third Generation Evolution:

The 2006 Eclipse represents the final year of the third generation (NC1), which debuted for the 2000 model year. This generation saw a significant styling evolution from its predecessor, moving towards a more rounded and aggressive design language. It also introduced the convertible body style and an available AWD system for the V6 model.

Production Location:

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

Production Years Third Gen:

2000-2005 (Model years) / 2006 was the last year of the NC1 generation, with the fourth generation (DK) launching for 2006 in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognition:

While not a frequent award-winner in its later years, the Eclipse consistently received recognition for its sporty styling and value proposition in its segment. Specific awards vary year by year, but it was generally considered a strong contender in the affordable sports coupe market.