2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe known for its stylish design and affordability. The base engine is a 2.4L inline-4 producing 147 horsepower and 158 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful option is the 3.0L V6 engine making 210 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque, also available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. People often appreciate the Eclipse for its aggressive styling and relatively low price point. However, common complaints include the quality of interior materials, the reliability of certain components, and the car’s age impacting parts availability.
Engine
2.4L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: The 2.4L engine in the 2003 Eclipse is known to develop excessive oil consumption. This often manifests as the need to add oil frequently between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potentially fouled spark plugs.
- Solution: Repair options range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, or even a full engine rebuild depending on the severity of the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
- Timing Belt Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing belt is a crucial component of the engine. Over time, the belt can crack, fray, or break. Symptoms include engine misfires, rough running, or complete engine failure if the belt snaps.
- Solution: The timing belt, tensioner, and water pump should be replaced at regular intervals (typically every 60,000-90,000 miles).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gaskets on the 3.0L V6 can become brittle and leak over time. Oil leaks can be visible on the engine, leading to a burning smell, and potentially causing low oil levels.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
- Recalls: None Found
- Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The IAC valve can become faulty, leading to rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IAC valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear or during downshifts. This could indicate wear in the transmission or issues with the solenoids.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change may improve shifting. If the issue persists, solenoid replacement or a transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slippage
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slippage is when the engine revs up without a corresponding increase in speed. This is a sign of internal wear and tear on the transmission.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, or a soft clutch pedal indicate a worn or failing clutch.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Struts/Shocks
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll indicate worn struts or shocks.
- Solution: Replace struts/shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Broken or Worn Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly, clunking noise over bumps, and poor ride quality.
- Solution: Replace the springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, a dead battery, or a warning light on the dashboard indicate a failing alternator.
- Solution: Replace the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows that operate slowly or fail to operate can result from a failing window motor or regulator.
- Solution: Window motor and regulator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Car does not start, clicking sound when trying to start.
- Solution: Starter replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels, is a common issue.
- Solution: Rust repair can range from sanding and repainting small areas to replacing entire body panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks due to exposure to sunlight and temperature changes.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Radio/Speaker Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Speakers may blow out, or the radio may stop working.
- Solution: Speaker and/or radio replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse, while stylish, suffers from several common issues primarily related to its age. Engine issues such as oil consumption and timing belt failures can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmissions, are also prevalent. Suspension and electrical issues are typical for a car of this age. Rust can be a major concern, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the car for these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary widely depending on the car’s condition and maintenance history.