The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse represented a sporty coupe/convertible in the compact segment, known for its styling and available performance (especially with the V6).
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic Coupe/Si, Acura RSX, Toyota Celica, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Ford Focus SVT.
Key Features
Key Features:
Stylish design, comfortable interior for its class, available potent 3.0L V6 engine, independent rear suspension on most models.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Engine Coverage:
2.4L 4G64 SOHC, 3.0L 6G72 SOHC V6
Transmission Coverage:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body Structure
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, HVAC Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive software)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF-based or proprietary executable)
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format Details:
Likely a proprietary executable or searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and schematics.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
N/A (Software - High-resolution digital images and text)
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Software)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Software)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Variant 1:
2.4L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (4G64)
Engine Variant 2:
3.0L SOHC 24-valve V6 (6G72)
Performance Variant 1
Horsepower 2.4L:
147 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque 2.4L:
156 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Performance Variant 2
Horsepower 3.0L V6:
205 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque 3.0L V6:
205 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91+ for optimal performance)
Engine Code Details
2.4L Engine Code:
4G64
3.0L V6 Engine Code:
6G72
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Overdrive)
Features
Automatic Transmission Features:
Selectable Gear Positions (P, R, N, D, 3, 2), electronic control unit (ECU) managed shifting.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (consult manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi Genuine ATF SP-II or equivalent (consult manual for exact spec)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Coupe
Length Coupe:
Approx. 179.7 inches
Width Coupe:
Approx. 69.2 inches
Height Coupe:
Approx. 53.5 inches
Exterior Convertible
Length Convertible:
Approx. 179.7 inches
Width Convertible:
Approx. 69.2 inches
Height Convertible:
Approx. 53.9 inches
Weights
Curb Weight 2.4L:
Approx. 3000-3100 lbs
Curb Weight 3.0L V6:
Approx. 3200-3300 lbs
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.2 inches
Track Width Front:
Approx. 59.6 inches
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 59.8 inches
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 2001:
4 Stars (out of 5)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating 2001:
4 Stars (out of 5)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims, Power-assisted steering.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Front Seatbelt Pretensioners, Crumple Zones, Side Impact Door Beams (on coupe).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer. Some models may have cassette decks.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, cruise control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio playback. Aftermarket Bluetooth/auxiliary inputs were common upgrades.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil Filter
Oil And Filter Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first) under severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles or 6 months under normal conditions (refer to manual for specific details based on oil type).
Service Intervals Coolant
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
First at 30,000 miles or 24 months, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Approx. 60,000 miles (use NGK BKR5EKU or equivalent)
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0L V6:
Approx. 60,000 miles (use NGK BKR5EKPB-11 or equivalent)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 or GF-3; SAE 5W-30 recommended for most climates. Consult manual for viscosity recommendations based on temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter change)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L V6:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (MS-2960), or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues Ignition:
Premature failure of ignition coils, distributor (on some earlier models/trims), and spark plug wires.
Common Issues Suspension:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Common Issues Fuel System:
Clogged fuel injectors, faulty fuel pump.
Common Issues Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues leading to rough shifting or 'limp mode'.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its engineering and diverse product lines.
Model Evolution
Eclipse Generation 2 End:
The 2001 model year marks the final year of the second generation (1995-2001) Eclipse, which was co-developed with Chrysler.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser.
Production
Production Location:
United States (Illinois Plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards And Recognition:
While the 2001 model itself might not have specific major awards, the Eclipse line has historically been recognized for its sporty styling and value proposition within its segment.