2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse

2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sports coupe that offers a thrilling driving experience with its powerful engines and sharp handling. Available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, the Eclipse comes with a range of engine and transmission options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 147 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 3.0-liter V6 generates 200 horsepower and 189 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual, four-speed automatic, and five-speed automatic with Sportronic® mode. Despite its aggressive exterior and sporty performance, the Eclipse has faced criticism for its cramped interior and lack of refinement.

Engine

• 2.4-liter Four-Cylinder
  • Intake Valve Sticking
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake valves can stick due to carbon buildup, causing engine misfires and a decrease in power.
    • Solution: Intake valve cleaning or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3.0-liter V6
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, resulting in a rattling noise from the engine and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch master cylinder can fail, causing the clutch pedal to become soft or unresponsive.
    • Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip gears or fail to engage properly, causing a loss of power.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Five-Speed Automatic with Sportronic® Mode
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the automatic transmission, can fail, leading to transmission problems and loss of drive.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts can fail, causing a clunking or rattling noise while driving.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings can wear out, resulting in a loose and unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely, especially after the vehicle has been parked overnight.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify and replace any faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or inoperable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Window Defrost Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear window defroster may fail, causing difficulty in clearing ice or fog from the rear window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear window defroster element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Panel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control panel may fail to respond or display incorrect temperatures.
  • Solution: Replacement of the climate control panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster may display incorrect or intermittent readings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse offers a thrilling driving experience but comes with a few notable issues. The engine and transmission can experience serious problems such as timing chain tensioner failure and mechatronic unit failure, which can be costly to repair. Additionally, the suspension, electrical, and interior components can also encounter various issues, affecting overall reliability and comfort. Some of these issues, such as battery drain and window regulator failure, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others, like timing chain tensioner failure, can lead to significant repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse and consider the severity and cost of the repairs when making a decision.