2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Introduction to the 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sports car offered in two trim levels: GS and GT. The GS comes equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 162 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the GT receives a more powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine generating 265 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, and the GT also offers a six-speed manual transmission as an option. Reviewers praise the Eclipse for its stylish design, nimble handling, and comfortable interior, but criticize its lack of rear legroom, outdated infotainment system, and sluggish four-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine coolant or oil leaks, overheating, rough idling, decreased performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt tensioner failure:
  • Symptoms: Grinding or squealing noise from the engine, engine stalling, decreased performance
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8-Liter V6 Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift solenoid failure:
  • Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifting, slipping gears, no gears engaging
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: NHTSA 15V092000

Six-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch master cylinder failure:
  • Symptoms: Clutch pedal sinks to the floor, difficulty engaging gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear shock absorber mount failure:
  • Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the rear of the vehicle, reduced ride comfort
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorber mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system malfunction, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof drain blockage:
  • Symptoms: Water leaking into the interior from the sunroof
  • Solution: Clear clogged sunroof drains
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control malfunction:
  • Symptoms: Air conditioning or heating not working properly
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: NHTSA 18V024000
• Infotainment system touchscreen failure:
  • Symptoms: Touchscreen not responding to inputs, freezing
  • Solution: Update or replace infotainment system software
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse suffers from a handful of common issues, but many are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. The most notable problems include the intake manifold gasket failure on the 2.4-liter engine, shift solenoid failure on the four-speed automatic transmission, and sunroof drain blockage. More severe issues, such as clutch master cylinder failure and transmission rebuilds, are less frequently reported. Overall, the Eclipse is a reliable and affordable sports car with a few quirks to be aware of.