1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Introduction to the 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sports car that was available with three different engines and two transmission options. The base engine was a 1.8-liter inline-four that produced 92 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque. The GS model came with a 2.0-liter inline-four that produced 135 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The GST model came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that produced 190 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. All three engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Eclipse was praised for its stylish design, its affordability, and its handling. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power, its cramped interior, and its poor fuel economy.

Engine Concerns

1.8-Liter Inline-Four

• Blown head gasket:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found 2.0-Liter Inline-Four
• Timing belt failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or runs rough, no power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission Concerns

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace synchronizer
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Torque converter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or shuddering, no power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension Concerns

• Strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the front of the vehicle, uneven tire wear, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical Concerns

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim lights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior Concerns

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior Concerns

• Seat controls stop working:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seat controls do not function, seats cannot be adjusted
  • Solution: Replace seat control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a reliable and affordable sports car that is known for its stylish design and handling. However, it does have some common issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, and electrical problems. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Overall, the Eclipse is a good choice for those who are looking for a stylish and affordable sports car, but they should be aware of the potential issues that can come with it.