1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse

1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sports coupe offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, while the GS-T model gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 195 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic is optional on the base model.

Owners appreciate the Eclipse’s sporty handling and comfortable interior, but some have reported issues with reliability.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder (140 hp)

• Leaking Head Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the head gasket, causing overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (195 hp)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger fails, resulting in a loss of power and increased engine noise.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, causing oil loss and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Failed Synchronizers
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting, and eventually complete loss of gear engagement.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear while driving, causing sudden loss of power.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, bouncy ride, and potential tire damage.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical system malfunctions, battery drain, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially around the air vents and gauges.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Window Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power windows stop working, causing difficulty opening or closing.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a range of issues, with the most common problems affecting the engine, transmission, and interior. These issues can be costly to fix, so it’s important to consider the potential expenses before purchasing a used Eclipse. However, for those who can afford the repairs, the Eclipse offers a fun and engaging driving experience.