2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Introduction:

The 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sports car offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It has a stylish design, responsive handling, and a comfortable interior. However, it has also had some issues with reliability and performance. Other engine options include a 2.4L G4KA engine with 147 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L 6G72 engine with 215 hp and 205 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Engine

• 2.0L 4G63 Engine
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning oil smell and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.4L G4KA Engine
  • Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail prematurely, causing catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt and water pump according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission:
  • Difficulty shifting gears: The transmission may become difficult to shift into gear, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Replace the shift linkage or repair the shifter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Transmission shudder: The transmission may shudder or vibrate while shifting gears.
    • Solution: Flush the transmission fluid and replace the filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mounts: The front strut mounts can wear out prematurely, causing a clunking noise and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, causing the battery to discharge and leaving the vehicle stranded.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: #02V155000 (2000-2001 Eclipse with 2.4L engine only)

Exterior

• Window regulators: The window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or unable to roll up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: #00V245000 (2000-2001 Eclipse with 2.4L engine only)

Interior

• Power window switch failure: The power window switches can fail, causing the windows to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per switch
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a stylish and sporty car, but it has had some issues with reliability. The most common issues include valve cover gasket leaks, timing belt failure, transmission shudder, and electrical problems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially catastrophic engine damage. The cost to fix these issues can be significant, so it’s important to factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing an Eclipse.