2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe and convertible known for its stylish design. Engine options include a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 158 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, depending on the engine. Owners often appreciate the Eclipse’s aesthetics and handling, but some dislike its reliability and build quality.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning oil at a higher-than-normal rate, often indicated by low oil levels between oil changes and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating. The cause may be worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing spark plugs, ignition coils, or repairing vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can wear, crack, or even break, leading to severe engine damage if not addressed. Symptoms include a ticking noise from the engine, rough running, and complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner is the recommended solution as preventative maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, particularly around the valve covers and oil pan.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hard shifts between gears, especially between 1st and 2nd, or the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body repair, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, accompanied by a grinding noise, especially when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear. This could indicate worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll when cornering, and fluid leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can cause loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500 per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow or no starting, and battery warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not moving up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming in wheel wells, rocker panels, and other areas, especially in regions with heavy salt use during winter.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per area
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking, either internally or externally, making it difficult or impossible to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse has various common issues, some of which can be costly to repair. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and timing belt issues are prevalent, and can range from moderate to severe in terms of cost and potential damage. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, can also be expensive to address. Suspension and electrical issues are also typical for a car of this age. Owners should be aware of these potential problems when considering purchasing or maintaining a 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse.