Making its debut for the 1990 model, Mitsubishi Eclipse has since become arguably one of the most popular sports coupes in the United States. This is due to its appealing design, powerful engine and overall affordability. The Mitsubishi is currently in its fourth generation, starting from 2006.
First-generation Mitsubishi Eclipses (1990 to 1994) are prone to shaking abnormally. That can be solved by replacing the transmission mounting brackets. Other issues include rear disc brake noise solved by introduction of noise-suppression shims, noisy oil pumps replaced with counter measure pumps with helical cut gears, and poor manual transmission shift with a friction modifier added to the oil through the speedometer gear opening.
Faulty fuel pumps is a common occurrence in second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipses (1995 to 1999). In some cases, the fuel-pressure regulator would need to be replaced to curb the noise; in others, the in-tank filter would need to be unclogged.
Other second-generation Eclipse issues include noisy air springs (insulators can be installed on the upper coils), engine misfire due to accumulation of carbon (replace spark plugs and plug wires) and rear axle noise, which can be gotten rid off by replacing the trailing-arm bushings (1995 to 1997) or the shock-absorber insulator assembly (1997 to 1998).
A major problem with third-generation Mitsubishi Eclipses (2000 to 2005) is the automatic transmission, which may experience turbulence due to thermal breakdown of the original transmission fluid (SPII). Flushing and refilling the system with revised SPIII fluid can solve the issue.
Revised bushings are available to curb vehicle noise, and a jumper harness with a filter can be installed under the driver seat to correct the short causing car speaker noises when operating the power seat. Other problems include hard starting (revised relays are available) and skipping/sticking sunroofs (that requires a countermeasure drive-cable assembly).
The problems in fourth-generation Mitsubishi Eclipses (2006 to present) are comparatively minor. Some vehicles may need reprogramming of the engine control computer in some instances that the "Check Engine" indicator illuminates, and the turn signal cancel cam in the steering column may produce a clicking noise, which can be resolved with introducing a spacer between the column and the signal switch mounting screw.
