Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang (V6), Chevrolet Camaro (V6), Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V.
Competitive Advantage Of Vehicle:
Offered with potent V6 engine options and all-wheel drive (GT models), providing performance often found in higher segments.
Key Features
Performance Options:
Available naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and a potent V6 engine. GT models offered AWD.
Design And Styling:
Distinctive aerodynamic styling, available in coupe and convertible body styles.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge typically reserved for dealership service departments, enabling owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
North America (USA, Canada)
Regional Variants Covered:
USDM (United States Domestic Market), CdnDM (Canadian Domestic Market)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type
Manual Classification:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Distinction From Owner Manual:
Detailed diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures for technicians and advanced DIYers, unlike the basic operation and feature guide of an Owner's Manual.
Torque specifications for all fasteners, valve clearances, timing belt tension, wheel alignment specifications, idle speed adjustments.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely searchable text content (depending on OCR quality if scanned)
Printability:
Printable pages for offline reference
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
Variable, but typically clear enough for illustration detail
Binding Type
Physical Format Implication:
If printed: likely spiral-bound or professionally bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type
Physical Format Implication:
If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop conditions.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 2.4L I4:
4G64 (SOHC)
Displacement 2.4L I4:
2351 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower 2.4L I4:
147 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque 2.4L I4:
158 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine Code 2.4L I4 Turbo:
4G64T (DOHC, turbocharger)
Displacement 2.4L I4 Turbo:
2351 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower 2.4L I4 Turbo:
205 hp @ 5500 rpm (GT-S)
Torque 2.4L I4 Turbo:
205 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (GT-S)
Engine Code 3.0L V6:
6G72 (SOHC)
Displacement 3.0L V6:
2972 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower 3.0L V6:
200 hp @ 6000 rpm (GT)
Torque 3.0L V6:
205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (GT)
Performance
Engine Control Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with ECU control.
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, higher octane for Turbo/GT models).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (F5M33) for base and GT models.
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (F4A51) for base and GT models.
Performance Transmission Gt S:
5-speed manual transmission (W6MG1) for GT-S models.
Features
All Wheel Drive:
Available on GT and GT-S models, typically paired with a manual transmission.
16-inch (205/55R16), 17-inch (215/50R17 on GT/GT-S)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for models with optional side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for models with optional side airbags)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for models with specific design features)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on GT and GT-S models, optional on base models.
Traction Control:
Available on some GT models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional front-seat side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Standard pop-up roll bars for convertible models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.
Display Technology:
Basic analog gauges and digital odometer. No advanced infotainment screens or touchscreens.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
OBD Ii Port:
Standard 16-pin OBD-II diagnostic port, enabling use of scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data monitoring.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical for 4G64 engine to prevent catastrophic failure).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type API:
API SG, SH, or SJ classification.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 recommended. Refer to manual for variations based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mitsubishi coolant specifications.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen ATF SP-II M or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon compliant fluids may be acceptable, consult manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical failure risk on the 4G64 engine if not replaced at recommended intervals; can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
Oil Sludge Buildup:
Can occur in the 4G64 engine, especially with extended oil change intervals or poor maintenance. Regular oil changes are crucial.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some models can experience slipping or hard shifting due to wear or fluid degradation. Proper fluid maintenance is key.
Cv Axle Wear:
Especially on AWD models, constant velocity (CV) joints can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Can lead to check engine lights and poor fuel economy.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Established in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer known for its diverse range of vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, and performance cars. The company has a significant history in motorsports and engineering innovation.
Model Evolution
Eclipse Generation 1:
1989-1994. Shared platform with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon (Diamond Star Motors joint venture).
Eclipse Generation 2:
1995-1999. Major redesign, became a standalone Mitsubishi model. Introduced turbocharged AWD variants.
Eclipse Generation 3:
2000-2005. This generation includes the 2003 model. Characterized by a more aggressive, bulbous styling. The V6 engine option became prominent.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production Years For This Generation:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best List:
The Eclipse GT-S was recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1990 (previous generation), but the third generation did not receive similar accolades, focusing more on style and V6 power.
Initial Release Reception:
The third generation Eclipse was generally well-received for its styling and the availability of the V6 engine and AWD, though it faced stiff competition in the sport compact market.