2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Introduction:

The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sports car powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 162 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It comes equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Eclipse is known for its attractive styling, roomy interior, and affordable price. However, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine

2.4L 4-cylinder

• Oil leaks from timing chain cover:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the timing chain cover, causing a burning smell and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket fails, causing coolant and oil leaks, poor engine performance, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission slips out of gear:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear while driving, resulting in a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mounts fail:
  • Description/Symptoms: The front strut mounts fail, causing excessive noise, vibration, and handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shocks wear out prematurely:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear shocks wear out prematurely, resulting in poor ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing electrical system problems, difficulty starting, and dead batteries.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains excessively, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system to identify the cause of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows fail to operate or become stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the power window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC system fails to function properly, such as not blowing air or not regulating temperature.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the HVAC system to identify and fix the underlying issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk lid misalignment:
  • Description/Symptoms: The trunk lid does not align properly, resulting in gaps or difficulty closing.
  • Solution: Adjust the trunk lid hinges or latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlights dim:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlights become dim or flicker.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or diagnose electrical issues if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a number of significant issues that can be costly to repair. The most severe issues involve the transmission and electrical system, which can lead to safety concerns and significant expenses. While some of the issues, such as interior and exterior issues, are less severe, they can still be frustrating and diminish the overall ownership experience. Before purchasing a 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, it is important to be aware of these potential problems and factor the cost of potential repairs into your decision.