Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, style, and affordability in a sporty vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Nissan 350Z (depending on trim/performance).
Styling:
Aggressive, aerodynamic design with a choice of coupe or convertible body styles.
Powertrain Options:
Available with fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines and a powerful V6 with all-wheel-drive option.
Driving Dynamics:
Sport-tuned suspension and responsive handling, particularly in GT models.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger (for GT models).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear ratios, shift mechanism.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, electronic control unit (ECU), fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive system (AWC for GT), driveshafts, differentials, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, tie rod ends, hydraulic pump.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, horn.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control panel, refrigerant type.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, fault finding.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor service.
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component repair, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon problems, circuit diagrams, wiring schematics.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2006 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2006 models)
IIHS Front Offset Small Overlap:
Acceptable (2006 models)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional on GS, Standard on GT
Stability Control:
Optional on GS, Standard on GT (Active Stability Control - ASC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim/year).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Service Intervals Gs 2.4L
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles or 12 months, replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 105,000 miles (Iridium type).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000 miles or as needed.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000 miles or as needed.
Coolant:
Change every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Brake Fluid:
Inspect every 15,000 miles or 12 months, replace every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Service Intervals Gt 3.8L
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service).
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 105,000 miles (Iridium type).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000 miles or as needed.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000 miles or as needed.
Coolant:
Change every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil Gs:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 (Check manual for specific OEM approval).
Engine Oil Gt:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 (Check manual for specific OEM approval).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
DIA-QUEEN ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid GL-4 (75W-90 recommended).
Coolant:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Gs Engine Oil Consumption:
Some 2.4L (4G69) engines can experience higher than normal oil consumption, potentially related to piston ring design or PCV system issues. Regular oil level checks are important.
Interior Rattles And Squeaks:
Common in many vehicles of this era, particularly around door panels, dashboard, and center console. The manual provides procedures for removing and re-securing trim pieces.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some owners have reported exhaust manifold cracks, particularly on the V6 models, leading to exhaust leaks and a loud ticking noise. Replacement may be necessary.
Convertible Top Issues:
Potential for hydraulic leaks or motor issues in the power convertible top mechanism over time.
Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting:
Some instances of hard shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmissions have been reported. Fluid changes and checking transmission control module (TCM) data are key diagnostics.
Mitsubishi Performance History:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in rally racing (Group A, WRC) and performance vehicles like the Lancer Evolution and 3000GT, which influenced the Eclipse's sporty character.
First Generation:
1990-1994, developed with Chrysler, known for its affordable sporty styling and turbocharged performance.
Second Generation:
1995-1999, continued success with sleek styling and more potent engines, including the iconic GST and GSX (AWD turbo).
Third Generation:
2000-2005, radical redesign with a more angular, Mitsubishi-specific platform, lost AWD on turbo models.
Fourth Generation:
2006-2011, the generation covered by this manual. Featured a more mature design, a potent V6 option, and the return of AWD on GT models. Convertible option introduced.
Manufacturing Plant:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors - DSM plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)
End Of Production:
August 2011. The Eclipse was discontinued along with other Mitsubishi models in the US market due to declining sales and corporate strategy shifts.