🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse & Spyder

Model Generations:

Third Generation

Product Name:

Mitsubishi Eclipse & Spyder 2000-2006 Service Repair Workshop Manual

Chassis Codes:

D52A (Coupe), D53A (Spyder)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Sporty compact car and convertible, appealing to buyers seeking performance and style in a more affordable package.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Toyota Celica, Ford Focus SVT, Chevrolet Cavalier Z24/Cobalt SS, Nissan Sentra SE-R.

Styling:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, available as a sleek coupe or a sporty convertible (Spyder) with a power-operated soft top.

Performance Options:

Offered with a choice of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, providing a range of performance levels from efficient commuting to exhilarating acceleration.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Body Styles:

Coupe, Convertible (Spyder)

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typical factory service manuals are 1000+ pages)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all engine variants, including timing belt replacement, component testing, fuel injection systems, emissions control.

Transmission:

Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch service, torque converter, gear selection mechanisms, fluid specifications, and diagnostic troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis and repair, including disc brake systems (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS operation and troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear), steering components, wheel alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut replacement, bearing service.

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse and relay identification, starter, alternator, battery system, lighting, power windows, mirrors, wipers, horn, climate control fan, SRS (airbag) system diagnosis.

Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, convertible top operation and repair (Spyder), glass replacement, bumper systems.

HVAC:

Climate control system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, AC compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, control panel operations.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing, evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system diagnosis.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation, coolant specifications, flush and fill procedures.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Detailed disassembly, repair, and reassembly instructions for virtually all vehicle components and systems.

Diagnostics:

Engine performance diagnostics, emission control system testing, ABS diagnostics, SRS system fault finding.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and tire rotations to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and structural repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - standard for service manuals, allowing for easy searching and printing.

Diagrams Quality:

High-quality, detailed diagrams and illustrations designed for clarity in repair and diagnostic procedures.

Physical Binding:

Not Applicable (assuming digital format), but if printed, typically spiral-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop.

Physical Paper:

Not Applicable (assuming digital format), but factory printed manuals often use durable, gloss-coated paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

2.4L 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder (G4CS engine family)

Base Engine Power:

Approximately 147-154 horsepower (depending on year and specific application)

Base Engine Torque:

Approximately 158-162 lb-ft

Performance Engine:

2.0L 16-valve DOHC Turbocharged 4-cylinder (4G63T engine)

Performance Engine Power:

Approximately 200-210 horsepower (standard GT trim)

Performance Engine Torque:

Approximately 205 lb-ft

Mr Trim Engine:

2.0L 16-valve DOHC Turbocharged 4-cylinder with higher output (specific tuning and intercooler)

Mr Trim Engine Power:

Approximately 205 horsepower, often with a more aggressive ECU tune.

Mr Trim Engine Torque:

Approximately 205 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for base, 91+ octane for turbocharged models)

Evap System:

Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system with charcoal canister.

🔧 Transmission

Base Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (available on most trims)

Turbo Transmission:

Turbocharged models (GT, MR) were often paired with a 5-speed manual, with some offering a 4-speed automatic. The MR trim notably featured an optional 6-speed manual transmission on some markets/years and an advanced Active Center Differential (ACD) for AWD variants.

AWD Availability:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was exclusively available on certain performance variants, most notably the 2.0L turbo GT and MR trims, often featuring ACD.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Length Coupe:

Approx. 180.1 inches (4575 mm)

Length Spyder:

Approx. 180.3 inches (4580 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.2 inches (1758 mm)

Height Coupe:

Approx. 53.4 inches (1356 mm)

Height Spyder:

Approx. 53.3 inches (1354 mm)

Wheel Size:

Typically 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size:

Varies by trim, e.g., 205/55R16, 215/50R17, 225/45R17

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3300 lbs (1315-1497 kg), varies significantly by engine and body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star driver, 5-star passenger (for 2000-2005 models, specific ratings vary by year and configuration).

IIHS Ratings:

Mixed results, with some model years receiving 'Acceptable' or 'Good' in frontal offset tests, but often criticized for side-impact performance in early years.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims, often with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models, especially turbocharged variants.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags. Side airbags and curtain airbags became available on later models or higher trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and chassis structure for the Spyder convertible.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape. Optional premium audio systems with subwoofers were available. Auxiliary input jacks became more common later in the generation.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were standard or optional depending on the trim. Remote keyless entry available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific oil type and mileage).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for 4-cylinder engines. Recommended replacement interval typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).

Spark Plugs:

Replace at approximately 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium).

Engine Oil:

API Service SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, compatible with Japanese vehicles. Capacity approx. 6.5-7.5 quarts (6.2-7.1 liters). Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-3 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.0-2.4 quarts (1.9-2.3 liters).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mitsubishi Genuine ATF SP-II M or equivalent. Capacity approx. 7.5-8.5 quarts (7.1-8.0 liters) for drain and fill.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some 4-cylinder engines (particularly the 4G64) have been known to consume oil, requiring frequent checks.

Turbo Oil Lines:

Turbocharged models can experience issues with oil supply and return lines leading to turbo failure if not maintained or if oil is not changed regularly.

Suspension Components:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to premature tire wear and steering looseness.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

The power convertible top mechanism on the Spyder can develop issues with motors, hydraulics, or latching systems over time.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Exhaust manifold cracks, particularly on the turbocharged models, can occur due to heat cycling.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Performance:

Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in performance vehicles and motorsport, notably with the Lancer Evolution, which shares engine technology (4G63T) with the turbocharged Eclipse models.

Third Generation Introduction:

The third generation (2000-2005) represented a significant redesign from the previous, more angular second generation. It featured a curvier, more aggressive styling, shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Galant and Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus coupes.

Key Changes 2003:

A mid-cycle refresh in 2003 brought updated styling, including revised headlights, taillights, and bumpers, as well as interior enhancements and some powertrain tweaks.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler).

Production Years:

2000-2005 (model years), with the final model year commonly cited as 2005 or 2006 depending on regional market sell-through.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

The Eclipse GT, especially the turbocharged variants, was often praised for its performance and styling by automotive journalists, though it rarely received major 'Car of the Year' awards against stronger rivals.