2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Overview
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, a sporty compact coupe, offered a blend of performance and style. It was available with two primary engine options: a 2.4L naturally aspirated four-cylinder and a more potent 3.8L V6. Both engines were generally considered reliable, though specific issues could arise with age and mileage. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual (for the V6), and a 6-speed automatic. While the manual transmissions were robust, the automatic could occasionally present issues. Overall, the Eclipse is known for decent reliability, but like any vehicle, it’s susceptible to certain common problems that owners should be aware of, particularly concerning its age.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder (4G69)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.8L V6 (6G75)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Automatic
Slipping or delayed engagement
- Symptoms: Transmission may hesitate to shift, feel like it’s slipping between gears, or exhibit rough shifting.
- Solution: Fluid flush and filter replacement, or in severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $800 (fluid service), $2000 - $4000 (rebuild/replacement)
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows may become slow, stop working, or make grinding noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator assembly.
- Cost: $150 - $300 per window
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminates, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine, or complete loss of electrical power.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
Clear Coat Peeling
- Symptoms: The clear coat on the paint may start to peel or flake, particularly on the roof, hood, and trunk lid.
- Solution: Repainting affected areas or a full vehicle repaint.
- Cost: $500 - $3000+ (depending on extent)
Interior
Interior Trim and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse generally presents as a reliable vehicle, especially with its naturally aspirated engine options and manual transmissions. The most commonly cited issues tend to be related to age and wear, such as window regulator failures and potential alternator problems. The automatic transmission is the primary powertrain component that may require more attention. Exterior paint issues like clear coat peeling are also not uncommon for vehicles of this age. Overall, with regular maintenance and addressing minor electrical or exterior concerns, the 2008 Eclipse can be a dependable sporty car.