2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty coupe known for its distinctive styling. Engine options included a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine producing 162 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque and a 3.8L V6 engine producing 263 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic for the 4-cylinder, and a 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic for the V6. Owners often appreciate the car’s aggressive looks and relatively affordable price point, but some criticize its interior quality and reliability.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings has resolved the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the timing belt tensioner can lead to timing belt slippage, causing engine misfires, rough running, and potentially catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump as a preventative measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.4L)

No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (3.8L)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. The transmission may also make unusual noises.
  • Solution: A complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (2.4L)

No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (3.8L)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect handling and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illumination, dimming headlights, and difficulty starting the engine. The alternator may also make whining noises.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operating slowly or failing to operate completely.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear quarter panels, particularly around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse can be an attractive and sporty car, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and timing belt tensioner failure can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, particularly with the 5-speed automatic, and suspension issues such as strut mount failure are also frequently reported. Electrical problems such as alternator failure, and interior cosmetic issues like dashboard cracking, as well as rust are also prevalent. Overall, the severity and cost of these repairs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.