🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: D30A (2nd Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Sport Compact / Affordable Sports Car Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Nissan 240SX, Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Ford Mustang (V6) Key Features Design: Aerodynamic styling, low-slung profile Performance Options: Available V6 engine, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Target Audience Primary Audience: Enthusiasts, tuners, DIY mechanics 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Body Styles Covered: Coupe, Convertible (Spyder) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download File Format Searchability: Searchable PDF text Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, printable pages Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel, Ignition, Exhaust, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD & AWD) Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS included), Wheels & Tires Electrical System: Lighting, Instruments, Audio System, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules, Engine Control Module (ECM), Anti-theft system (if applicable) Body & Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), SRS Airbag System Procedures Included Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II) Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Repair & Overhaul: Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, body panel repair Component Installation: Installation and removal procedures for major components Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds Diagrams And Illustrations: Detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4 - GSR/GST trims) Engine Code 2: 6A12 (2.0L DOHC V6 - ES/LS trims) Engine Code 3: 6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6 - US-spec LS/GS trims) Performance Horsepower 4G63: 210 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque 4G63: 214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm Horsepower 6G72: 164 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque 6G72: 185 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Fuel System Induction System Turbo: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Turbocharged Induction System Naturally Aspirated: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Engine Management ECU Type: Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlling fuel, ignition, and emissions 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (FWD) Optional Optional Transmission 1: 4-Speed Automatic (FWD) Optional Transmission 2: 5-Speed Manual AWD (GSR/GST trims) Features AWD System: Advanced Traction Engineering System (ATES) with viscous coupling center differential Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid Spec: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec: Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III or equivalent ATF 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 103.7 inches (2634 mm) Length: 178.5 inches (4534 mm) Width: 69.7 inches (1770 mm) Height: 50.8 inches (1290 mm) Weights Curb Weight Range: 3000 - 3300 lbs (1360 - 1497 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not rated or available for this model year Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims Passive Features Airbag System: Driver and Passenger SRS Airbags Seat Belts: 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Cassette stereo, optional CD player Climate Control: Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on some trims Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims Connectivity Diagnostics Port: OBD-I (pre-1996 OBD-II) diagnostic connector for ECU access 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 4G63 engine Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Turbo Issues: Turbocharger seal leaks, wastegate actuator failure (common on modified 4G63 engines) Engine Maintenance: Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule Suspension Wear: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings due to age and mileage Interior Wear: Cracking dashboard, worn seat bolsters, failing climate control buttons 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Manufacturer Focus: Known for robust engineering, particularly in powertrain and drivetrain technology (e.g., AWD systems). Model Evolution Generation Transition: The 1996 model marks the beginning of the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, a significant redesign from the first generation. Platform Sharing: Shared platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser as part of the Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) joint venture. Production Manufacturing Location: Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant) 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Import Car Of The Year: Often cited in enthusiast publications for its performance and value in its class.