Chrysler JA/JC Platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring Coupe, Dodge Stratus Coupe)
๐ Introduction
Market Position
Market Position:
Sport compact/coupe segment, positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented option.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like Honda Civic Si, Acura Integra, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro.
Key Features
Key Features:
Available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged (GT/GTS trims) variants, offering distinct performance levels. Styling evolved to a more aggressive, modern look in this generation.
Suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rods), Wheel alignment specifications, Brake pad/rotor replacement, Power steering system service
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most trims
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Side curtain airbags (optional on some trims), Pretensioner seatbelts
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Description:
Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims offered optional premium audio systems, and some may have had aftermarket upgrades for more advanced features like MP3 playback or satellite radio.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily ABS was the main driver assistance technology.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity, typically through auxiliary input ports on aftermarket head units. No standard Bluetooth or USB connectivity on factory systems.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) with synthetic oil, or per owner's manual recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7-8 years (4G64 and 6G72 engines), crucial to follow.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., iridium).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A or higher (for 2.4L & 3.0L V6), viscosity typically 5W-30. Check manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
DIA QUEEN ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (typically 75W-90 or 75W-85, check manual for specifics).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Known Issues Engine:
Timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (can cause catastrophic engine damage), oil consumption in higher mileage engines, potential for cracked exhaust manifolds on V6 engines.
Known Issues Transmission:
Automatic transmission shifting issues or hesitation, wear on manual clutch components.
Known Issues Suspension Steering:
Wear in bushings and ball joints, power steering pump leaks.
Mitsubishi has a history of producing reliable and performance-oriented vehicles, including iconic sports cars like the Lancer Evolution and 3000GT.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The 2004 Eclipse is part of the third generation (2000-2005), which moved to a front-wheel-drive platform shared with Chrysler, marking a departure from the previous generations' more driver-focused rear-wheel-drive roots. It featured a more rounded and aggressive styling.
Production
Production Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors facility)
Production Years Generation:
2000-2005
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
While not a recipient of major awards, the Eclipse was generally well-regarded for its sporty styling and value proposition in the sport compact segment during its production run.