Model Generations:
1st Generation (D20/D30), 2nd Generation (D30/D32A/D38A)
Applicable Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Chassis Codes:
D22A, D27A, D32A, D38A
Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse of this era was positioned as an affordable, stylish, and performance-oriented sporty coupe, often competing with vehicles like the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, and Nissan 240SX. The turbo and AWD models offered a significant performance edge.
Key Rivals:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX/Silvia, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6.
Design Philosophy:
Bold, aerodynamic styling with a focus on sporty aesthetics and driver engagement. Offered in both naturally aspirated and potent turbocharged variants.
Performance Options:
Availability of powerful turbocharged engines and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems in higher trims (GST, GSX) provided exhilarating performance.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser (Diamond-Star Motors vehicles), allowing for a degree of parts interchangeability.
Primary Coverage:
North America (USDM, Canadian), potentially some aspects of JDM/EDM depending on shared components
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline engine variants offered during the specified model years.
Transmission Coverage:
Manual (5-speed, 6-speed for GST/GSX) and Automatic transmissions.
Trim Level Coverage:
Base, RS, GS, GS-T (Turbo), GSX (AWD Turbo)
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control (ECU/PCM).
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transaxle, transfer case (for AWD), drive shafts, CV joints, differentials (front, rear, center for AWD).
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and operation, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, instrument cluster, engine control sensors and actuators, ECU diagnostics, audio system.
Body Chassis:
Body structure, panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, chassis frame components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, and service.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing specific system tests.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, including full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Code 1G:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbo I4) - Found in GST/GSX models
Engine Code 1G Na:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC I4) - Found in GS models
Engine Code 2G Na:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC NA I4) - Found in RS/GS models
Engine Code 2G Turbo:
4G63T (2.0L DOHC Turbo I4) - Found in GST/GSX models
Engine Code 2G V6:
6A12 (2.5L SOHC V6) - Offered in later 2nd Gen models (e.g., European markets, rare in USDM)
Hp 4G63T 1G:
Approx. 195 hp (USDM manual transmission)
Hp 4G63T 2G:
Approx. 210 hp (USDM manual transmission)
Torque 4G63T 1G:
Approx. 203 lb-ft (USDM manual transmission)
Torque 4G63T 2G:
Approx. 214 lb-ft (USDM manual transmission)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) and sequential fuel injection on later models.
Turbocharger Systems:
Garrett T25 or similar turbochargers for 1st Gen GST/GSX, Mitsubishi TD05HR-16G for 2nd Gen GST/GSX.
Intercooling:
Front-mounted intercooler (FMIC) on turbo models.
Length:
1st Gen: ~173.4 inches, 2nd Gen: ~177.7 inches
Width:
1st Gen: ~69.1 inches, 2nd Gen: ~69.1 inches
Height:
1st Gen: ~50.2 inches, 2nd Gen: ~50.8 inches
Wheelbase:
1st Gen: ~98.8 inches, 2nd Gen: ~100.4 inches
Curb Weight Base:
Starting around 2800 lbs
Curb Weight Gsx:
Up to ~3300 lbs for AWD turbo models
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 10-12 cubic feet (varies slightly by generation and model).
NHTSA Ratings:
Variable; early models had fewer advanced safety features. Later models and specific trims improved. Specific ratings not readily available without direct access to contemporary crash test data. Likely received mixed reviews in early years.
ABS:
Available on higher trims (GS, GS-T, GSX), standard on some later 2nd gen models.
AWD:
All-Wheel Drive on GSX models, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard equipment over the model run.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, often with pretensioners on later models.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player on higher trims. Sound systems varied by trim level.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges with tachometer, speedometer, fuel, and temperature. Some models featured optional digital climate control displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Power Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system.
OBD Standard:
OBD-I in early models, transitioning to OBD-II towards the end of the 2nd generation production (around 1996).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63 engines; typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on climate. Turbo models may benefit from synthetic oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 is common. Check manual for exact specification and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON. Check manual for exact specification and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
Power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II/III. Check manual for specific type.
Turbo Models Oil Sludge:
Risk of oil sludge buildup in turbocharged 4G63 engines due to oil coking, especially if maintenance is neglected. Regular oil changes and proper cool-down procedures are vital.
AWD System Maintenance:
Requires regular inspection and maintenance of viscous couplings and differential fluids for AWD models.
Suspension Wear:
Front strut mounts and rear suspension bushings can wear over time, leading to noise and handling degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, minor electrical issues can arise, such as faulty window motors, door lock actuators, or intermittent dash light problems.
Mitsubishi Motorsport:
Mitsubishi has a strong rally heritage, notably with the Lancer Evolution, which shares lineage and technology with the Eclipse's 4G63 engine and AWD systems.
1St Gen Intro:
Launched in 1989 as a 1990 model, the first-generation Eclipse was a groundbreaking sporty coupe for Mitsubishi, designed in collaboration with Chrysler.
2Nd Gen Redesign:
A significant redesign occurred for the 1995 model year, featuring a more aerodynamic and rounded body style, updated powertrains, and improved interior.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Years:
1989-1994 (1st Gen), 1995-1999 (2nd Gen - manual covers up to '98)
