2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse

2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Overview

The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse, particularly in its later model years, offered a blend of sporty styling and performance, appealing to a younger demographic. It was available with a choice of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, paired with either manual or automatic transmissions. While generally considered a fun and relatively reliable car for its class and era, certain components and systems have shown tendencies for specific issues that owners should be aware of. This data focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair areas and their associated costs.

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Engine

2.4L 4G64 SOHC

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals.
• Cost: $150 - $400

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, loss of power, engine knocking sounds.
• Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys. If failure occurred, potential engine damage may require more extensive repairs.
• Cost: $400 - $800

3.0L 6G72 SOHC V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light, coolant loss.
• Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals.
• Cost: $150 - $400

2.0L 4G63T DOHC Turbocharged (GT model)

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, blue smoke from exhaust, whining noise from turbo.
• Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the turbocharger unit.
• Cost: $800 - $2000

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, white smoke from exhaust, coolant in oil, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of the head gasket, and potentially resurfacing or replacing the cylinder head.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Delayed engagement, engine revs without acceleration, harsh shifting.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $2500

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, difficulty shifting.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

5-Speed Manual (KM220)

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Replacement of clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

6-Speed Manual (F5M51 - GT model)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and suspension bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Strut/Shock Absorber Failure

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible leaks from shocks.
• Solution: Replacement of struts or shock absorbers.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, engine stalling.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

Rust and Corrosion

• Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
• Solution: Rust repair and treatment, panel replacement if severe.
• Cost: $200 - $1500+

Headlight Haze/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced visibility at night, yellowed or cloudy headlights.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

Interior Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents or only at high speeds, unusual noises from dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $350

Seat Fabric Wear

• Symptoms: Tearing or excessive wear on seat bolsters and cushions.
• Solution: Seat cover replacement or professional upholstery repair.
• Cost: $100 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe that, while generally reliable, has some common issues to watch out for. The naturally aspirated engines are fairly robust, but the turbocharged 4G63T engine, especially if modified, can be prone to turbocharger and head gasket issues. Automatic transmissions may develop slipping problems, and manual clutches will eventually wear out. Suspension components like ball joints and bushings are common wear items. Electrical gremlins, such as failing window regulators and alternators, can occur. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates, and interior components like the blower motor may fail. Overall, with proper maintenance and addressing these known issues, the 2004 Eclipse can remain a fun and dependable vehicle.