Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sports Coupe and Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, and owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Toyota Celica GT-S, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Nissan 350Z (later in the generation)
Vehicle Appeal:
Stylish design, accessible performance options, convertible variant, tuner-friendly platform
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level technical data for maintaining and repairing the third-generation Eclipse and Spyder models, crucial for enthusiasts and independent mechanics.
Primary Focus:
Comprehensive Repair and Service
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels including GS, GT, GTS, SE, RS, Eclipse Spyder GS, Eclipse Spyder GT
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000 (depending on specific print version or compilation)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Print (Paperback/Binder) or Digital (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine control systems (ECU/ECM diagnostics), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveline (FWD and AWD)
Chassis:
Steering, suspension (front and rear), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, EBD), wheels, tires, frame/unibody
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, instruments and gauges, wipers and washers, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, airbags, body control module (BCM), immobilizer system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism (Spyder), interior trim, seats, airbags, crash structures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing, wiring diagrams, circuit testing
Repair:
Engine repair (overhaul, internal components), transmission repair (gearbox, torque converter), brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair, convertible top system repair
Special Procedures:
Engine removal/installation, transmission removal/installation, timing belt replacement, clutch service, turbocharger service (if applicable to certain trims), convertible top hydraulic system service
Depth:
Expert Level (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, wiring diagrams, exploded views, diagnostic flowcharts
Base Engine:
2.4L 16-Valve SOHC 4-Cylinder (4G64/4G69)
Base Engine Power:
147-154 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
158-164 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Performance Engine 1:
3.0L 24-Valve SOHC V6 (6G72)
Performance Engine 1 Power:
200-205 hp @ 5500-5750 rpm
Performance Engine 1 Torque:
205-207 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
Performance Engine 2:
3.0L 24-Valve SOHC V6 (6G72 - GT/GTS with enhanced tuning)
Performance Engine 2 Power:
205 hp @ 5500 rpm (later GTS bumped to 210 hp)
Performance Engine 2 Torque:
207 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (later GTS bumped to 214 lb-ft)
Turbocharged Engine:
None in this generation (GT model was V6, not turbo)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4-cyl, 89 or higher for V6)
4 Cylinder Engine Code:
4G64, 4G69
Base Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission 4 Cyl:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission V6:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (INVECS-II)
AWD Availability:
Available on V6 GT models (Limited Slip Center Differential)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIAQueen ATF-SP II M or equivalent
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate diaphragm spring type
Wheelbase:
103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Length:
177.7 inches (4513 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
53.3 inches (1354 mm) (Coupe), 53.1 inches (1349 mm) (Spyder)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (depending on engine and body style)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4000-4300 lbs
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 8.7 cu ft (Coupe), Approx. 5.3 cu ft (Spyder, top up)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2000-2001 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2000-2001 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (2000-2001 models)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base GS
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (often paired with ABS)
Traction Control:
Available on some V6 models
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional side airbags on certain trims
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (severe) or 7,500 miles (normal), or every 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended for 7,500 mile interval).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace at every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically replaced every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically replaced every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement 4 Cyl:
Approx. 60,000 miles (Iridium type)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 60,000 miles (Iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement 4 Cyl:
75,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 4G64/4G69 engines - interference design)
Timing Belt Replacement V6:
Not applicable (the 6G72 V6 in this generation uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SL or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Premature clutch wear (especially in performance-oriented driving).
Common Issue 2:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or rear main seal.
Common Issue 3:
Catalytic converter failure or clogging.
Common Issue 4:
Power window regulator failure or slow operation.
Common Issue 5:
CV joint wear and failure, particularly on FWD models.
Common Issue 6:
ABS system faults (wheel speed sensors, module).
Common Issue 7:
Convertible top hydraulic leaks or motor issues (Spyder models).
Common Issue 8:
Variable Intake Solenoid (VIS) failure causing rough idle or poor performance on V6.
Mitsubishi Performance Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong history in motorsports and performance vehicles, notably with the Lancer Evolution and the earlier Eclipse models.
Generation 3 Overview:
The third generation (2000-2006) represented a significant redesign, moving to a more rounded, flowing aesthetic. It was available as a coupe and a convertible (Spyder) and offered both 4-cylinder and V6 engine options.
Spyder Development:
The Spyder variant continued the convertible tradition, featuring a power-operated soft top and a more refined interior.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (for North American market)
Production Years Generation:
2000-2005 (model years 2000-2006)
Import Car Of The Year:
The 2000 Eclipse was named one of Car and Driver's 10Best Trucks for 2000, which included cars and SUVs, highlighting its stylish design and value.
Car And Driver Review:
Often praised for its styling, handling, and value for money, particularly the V6 models, though criticized for some interior materials and noise.
