2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Overview

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse, a sporty compact coupe, offered a blend of performance and style. It was available with different engine and transmission choices, catering to various driving preferences. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its class, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder (4G69)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, rough running, engine won’t start.
• Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys. If failure occurred, potential engine damage may require more extensive repairs.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

3.8L V6 (6G75)

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

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

Variable Induction System (VIS) Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, particularly at lower RPMs, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the VIS actuator or intake manifold assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

6-Speed Manual

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

4-Speed Automatic (4AT)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $2500+

6-Speed Automatic (6AT)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Sway Bar Links/Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of sway bar links and/or bushings.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Premature Strut/Shock Wear

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

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Early Failure

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

Exterior

Paint & Body

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Fading or peeling clear coat, especially on the roof, hood, and trunk.
• Solution: Repainting affected panels.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+ per panel

Sunroof

Drain Tube Clogging

• Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, musty smell.
• Solution: Clearing of sunroof drain tubes.
• Cost: $100 - $250

Interior

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Seat Fabric

Premature Wear

• Symptoms: Fraying or tearing of seat fabric, especially on the driver’s seat bolster.
• Solution: Seat cover replacement or professional upholstery repair.
• Cost: $200 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a generally dependable sports coupe, particularly with the manual transmissions. The most common concerns tend to revolve around potential oil leaks and timing belt maintenance for the 2.4L engine, and intake manifold issues for the V6. Automatic transmissions, especially the 4-speed, can experience shifting problems over time. Electrical gremlins related to the BCM and premature alternator failure are also noted. Exterior paint issues and interior wear are not uncommon for a vehicle of this age. Regular maintenance, especially on the timing belt and fluid changes for the automatic transmission, is crucial for longevity.