2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Introduction:
The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe that offers a combination of performance and practicality. It is available with two engine options: a 2.4L inline-four producing 147 horsepower and 158 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L V6 producing 205 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
The Eclipse is known for its stylish design, spacious interior, and agile handling. However, like any vehicle, it also has its share of common issues.
Engine:
2.4L Inline-Four
- Intake Camshaft Position Sensor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Check Engine light, rough idle, stalling Solution: Replace the intake camshaft position sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, rattling sound on startup Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
- Piston Ring Failure: Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
3.0L V6
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover area Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Exhaust Manifold Cracking: Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak, noise from the engine bay Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Power Steering Pump Failure: Description/Symptoms: Noisy steering, difficulty turning Solution: Replace the power steering pump Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal goes to the floor Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slippage: Description/Symptoms: Loss of power during acceleration, delayed shifting Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
- Reverse Gear Failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging or staying in reverse Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
Suspension:
- Strut Mount Failure: Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, reduced handling Solution: Replace the strut mounts Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Rear Sway Bar Link Failure: Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, reduced handling Solution: Replace the sway bar links Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
Electrical:
- Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a period of time Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system issues causing the drain Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems Solution: Replace the alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- ECU Failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine problems, electrical issues Solution: Replace the ECU Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
Exterior:
- Tail Light Lens Cracking: Description/Symptoms: Cracked or broken tail light lenses Solution: Replace the tail light lenses Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors Solution: Replace the door lock actuators Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Interior:
- Center Console Lid Breakage: Description/Symptoms: Broken or loose center console lid Solution: Replace the center console lid Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Climate Control Display Failure: Description/Symptoms: Blank or distorted display Solution: Replace the climate control display Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Summary:
The 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a fun and practical coupe but is not without its common issues. Some of these issues can be minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more severe and expensive.
Overall, the severity and cost of the issues vary, but it is important to be aware of these potential problems when considering this vehicle.