1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Introduction:
The 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse was a popular sports coupe known for its stylish design and sporty handling. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including a 2.0-liter inline-four, 2.4L V6, and a 3.0L V6. The transmission choices included a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, and 5-speed automatic. While the Eclipse received praise for its performance and aesthetics, it also had several reported issues.
Engine
2.0L Inline-Four
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, poor engine performance Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
2.4L V6
No Major Issues Found
3.0L V6
Timing Belt Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, catastrophic engine damage Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign IDs 00V021000, 02V092000
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Synchro Wear Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises Solution: Replace worn synchronizers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
4-Speed Automatic Overheating Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting, burning smell Solution: Repair or replace transmission cooler, flush transmission fluid Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
5-Speed Automatic
Solenoid Issues Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission malfunction Solution: Replace defective solenoid Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
Suspension
Rear Shock Absorber Failure Description/Symptoms: Ride quality deterioration, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim lights, electrical system failure Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
Exterior
Sunroof Leaking Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into cabin, rust Solution: Replace sunroof drain tubes, seal sunroof Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Interior
Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard surface, sun damage Solution: Replace dashboard, use windshield sunshade Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
Summary:
The 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse had several reported issues, ranging from minor inconveniences like dashboard cracking to more serious problems like engine and transmission failures. While some repairs could be relatively inexpensive, others could be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues and factor in the cost of potential repairs when considering purchasing an Eclipse.